When you decide to sell your Bradford property, in what order do things happen? Here’s our simple guide.
The very first step in selling your Bradford property is to understand how much it’s worth. That may determine whether you want to sell at all, and what sort of property you can afford next.
We would advise getting 3 valuations.
Don’t automatically opt for the highest valuation. Consider the rest of the package before deciding on your Bradford estate agent. What wider services do they offer? What’s their price – and what do you get for the money? What sort of rapport did you build with the person who valued your property?
You can read more about finding the right estate agent for you here.
It’s tempting to sit back and wait for the viewing appointments to start rolling in, but at that point you may not have left yourself with enough time to make the changes that can improve your chances of a sale.
Start decluttering, depersonalising and fixing those outstanding DIY tasks now. You can find more detail on preparing your Bradford property for viewings here.
Remember, you don’t have to be present at viewings. In fact, viewings can be more successful when the owner isn’t around because it removes pressure from both parties and can make things more relaxed.
If you do want to manage your own viewings, though, here are a few rules of thumb to make them more successful:
Be prepared for questions. Plan a few responses in advance to questions you’re likely to face. These might include:
The questions don’t have to be one way. Asking questions of your own can help build rapport and give you an insight into your viewer. Consider asking:
Remember: Don’t conduct viewings alone. Only agree to viewings arranged via your Bradford estate agency, and ensure that either a member of the Locate team, or a friend or family member is with you when the viewing takes place.
If someone knocks at your door asking for a viewing, politely refer them to us for an appointment.
An offer is just that. You don’t have to accept it. If you refuse the offer, you can tell us what would be a more acceptable figure and we can enter into negotiations on your behalf.
If you receive more than one offer you can choose which (if any) to accept. Bear in mind the highest offer may not always be your best option. A cash buyer who offers a little less may be preferable to a higher offer from a buyer who’s stuck in a chain and hasn’t got a mortgage agreed.
Even when you accept an offer, the deal isn’t legally binding on either party and is usually subject to survey.
Your work (in terms of selling your house, at least) is almost done. Your solicitor and estate agent will handle searches, contracts and completion. You can find out more about what happens at this stage of the selling process here.
While the legal process of your sale is ongoing, put plans in place for moving out. You can find a handy checklist of who to contact when, here.
Need help or advice about your Bradford property sale? Call us on 01274 720 900.