Start by Finding Out What Your Home Is Worth

If you are considering selling, one of the first steps is to arrange a property valuation.

As well as giving you an idea of your home's current market value, a good estate agent should be able to talk you through local market conditions, likely demand for your type of property and what you could do to prepare your home for sale.

Knowing what your property may achieve can also help you work out your budget if you are planning to buy another home.

Get Your Home Ready for the Market

You don't need to completely redecorate your home before putting it up for sale. Often, a few relatively simple jobs can make a noticeable difference.

Decluttering, tackling small maintenance jobs and giving rooms a fresh, tidy appearance can all help when it comes to photographs and viewings.

Don't forget the outside either. As we move towards autumn, keeping paths, gardens and the entrance to your property looking neat can help create a positive first impression.

Speak to a Mortgage Adviser Early

If you will need a mortgage for your onward purchase, it can be useful to speak to a mortgage adviser before you start seriously looking at properties.

Understanding how much you may be able to borrow and having your finances organised can make it easier to search within a realistic budget and put you in a better position when you find the right home.

Cash buyers should also make sure they have any necessary proof of funds readily available.

Instruct a Solicitor Before You Find a Buyer

You don't necessarily have to wait until you accept an offer to choose a solicitor or conveyancer.

Having someone lined up in advance means you can complete the initial paperwork and provide identification and other information they may require. This can help avoid unnecessary delays once a sale is agreed.

Be Realistic About Timescales

If you are hoping to be settled into a new home before Christmas, it is important to remember that completion dates are agreed through the solicitors once everyone in the chain is in a position to proceed.

Property chains can involve several buyers and sellers, and mortgage applications, surveys, searches and legal enquiries can all affect how quickly a transaction progresses.

Starting the process early gives you more time to deal with anything unexpected and may improve your chances of achieving your preferred timescale.

Think About Your Own Position as a Buyer

If you need to sell your current home before buying another, getting your property onto the market can put you in a stronger position when you find somewhere you love.

A seller considering several offers may look not only at the amount being offered but also at the buyer's circumstances. Having your own property under offer, finances arranged and solicitor ready can make you a more proceedable buyer.

Don't Wait for the 'Perfect' Week

It's easy to put off moving plans until after the summer holidays, once the children are back at school, or until life feels a little less busy.

But you don't have to make every decision at once.

If moving home is something you are considering this autumn, taking the first few steps now — arranging a valuation, reviewing your finances and getting your property ready — can mean you are prepared when the right opportunity comes along.

Thinking of Moving This Autumn?

If you are considering selling your home and would like to know what it could be worth in the current market, the Fraser Reeves team would be happy to help.

We can provide a no-obligation valuation, talk you through the local market and give you a realistic idea of what to expect from the selling process.

Whether you are hoping to move before Christmas or are simply starting to think about your plans for the months ahead, getting prepared early can make all the difference.

Contact Fraser Reeves Estate Agents to arrange your property valuation and start planning your next move.

01925 222555 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.