February 6, 2025
Selling a property can be an exciting but sometimes stressful process, particularly when delays slow things down. At Jacobs Steel, we know that time is key when selling your home. To help things move along smoothly, we’ve outlined some key steps to avoid unnecessary hiccups in your property sale.
1. Choose the right estate agent
A proactive and experienced estate agent can make all the difference in keeping your sale on track. At Jacobs Steel, we guide you through the process, handle negotiations efficiently, and work closely with solicitors and buyers to ensure things progress smoothly.
Read our blog for more tips on how to choose the right estate agent for you.
2. Get your paperwork ready
One of the biggest causes of delays in property transactions is incomplete or missing paperwork. Before putting your home on the market, get these documents together:
- • Title deeds
- • Planning permissions and building regulations certificates (if applicable)
- • FENSA certificates for windows
- • Guarantees for any recent work carried out on the property
3. Instruct a solicitor early
Many sellers wait until they receive an offer before appointing a solicitor, but this can slow things down. Choosing and instructing a solicitor at the start of your sale means they can prepare the necessary legal documents in advance, speeding up the conveyancing process.
4. Be realistic with your asking price
An overpriced property can deter buyers and lead to a drawn-out sale. Our team at Jacobs Steel will provide an accurate, data-driven valuation to ensure your home is competitively priced, attracting serious buyers quickly.
Find out more about getting a property valuation with Jacobs Steel.
5. Ensure your property Is market-ready
First impressions count. Before listing your property, make sure it is clean, well-presented, and free from any maintenance issues that could put buyers off. Simple steps such as decluttering, repainting, and fixing small repairs can make a big difference.
Read our guide to preparing your home for sale.
6. Keep communication open
Regular communication between all parties – estate agents, solicitors, and buyers – can help keep things moving. Responding to queries promptly and keeping up to date with your solicitor’s progress can prevent unnecessary delays.
7. Be prepared for the survey
If a buyer’s survey identifies issues, this could slow down the sale. To avoid surprises, consider getting a pre-sale survey or addressing any obvious concerns, such as damp, roofing problems, or outdated electrics, before putting your home on the market.
8. Stay flexible
Unexpected delays can sometimes happen despite careful planning. Being flexible with your timelines and open to reasonable negotiations can help prevent a sale from falling through.
Ready to sell?
Jacobs Steel are estate and letting agents with offices in Worthing, Findon, Lancing, Shoreham-by-Sea and Hove. We will guide you through the entire sale process, communicating with you every step of the way.