Is it Possible to Sell a House Without a Real Estate Agent in the UK?

Hiring an estate agent can be expensive. It is possible to sell a property on your own, potentially saving you thousands from commission fees. There are a few things to keep in mind if decide to sell your house without an agent.

If you're looking for expert advice on selling your property in the Heaver area, consider reaching out to Rampton Baseley Estate Agents for assistance or check their website https://ramptonbaseley.com/estate-agents/heaver/.

Know the value of your property

It is vital that you know how much your house is worth. An accurate listing price ensures your property is attractive to potential buyers. Listing your property with a reasonable price also helps avoids having it sit on the market for too long.

Researching the price of similar homes as well as properties in your area will help you set a selling price. If you want a second opinion or to confirm the price you are considering, some estate agents provide free valuations without any commitment. You can also use online services to get a free valuation and help you set an asking price.

Get your property ready

When you sell your house, there are certain steps you need to take to make your sale legal. First, you need to get an Energy Performance Certificate before your property goes on the market. This certificate is issued by a registered energy assessor who will inspect your property. You should also find a solicitor to help you with the sale. Once you accept an offer, a solicitor or conveyancer handles the legal paperwork to complete the sale.

You should prepare your house before you list it. For example, complete essential maintenance and consider undertaking some upgrades. This can help you add value as well as help sell your property faster. At a minimum, you should tidy and clean your home. First impressions generally mean a lot to potential homeowners, so try to show off your home.

You should take clear photographs of your property. When taking photos, make sure that each space is clean and free of clutter so that it shows off your property accurately. Also, create an interesting description that attracts potential buyers. Accurate photos and a compelling description are essential for your advertising efforts.

Selling your home

An estate agent helps market your home by using their networks to promote the property to potential buyers. They will also use advertising and other methods such as open houses. When you sell your property yourself, you need to consider what roles the agent would undertake and do these yourself.

You can list your property and set the price without an agent. You also advertise the property, which might involve you talking to friends and family who are interested in buying a house, promoting your property on social media and other strategies. You will not, however, be able to advertise on major property sites like Rightmove or Zoopla since services only work with estate agents.

You also need to handle viewings. Ask friends and family to help you with open houses and viewings when you are working or have other commitments. You can also limit viewings to times you are available like weekends. Before a viewing, check that the property is tidy to ensure the best possible first impression.

Finally, you will be responsible for negotiating the sale. Prepare yourself by practicing with others and developing a strategy, including how much flexibility you want to give with respect to the price. You should decide on the lowest price that you will accept before entering negotiations. Approach negotiations in a friendly and approachable manner and try to remove emotion from your discussions. You goal is to have potential buyers feel comfortable with you so they come back with another offer if you decide their opening bid is too low.

Once you accept an offer, confirm it in writing with an exchange of letters or emails. An offer will not be legally binding until contracts are exchanged. A solicitor is brought in at the point to help you complete the sale and draft the contracts.

Sell your house without an estate agent

Whether you are a first time seller or an experienced one, sell house without agent and avoid high commission fees. Planning is key to selling a property yourself, from deciding on a price to negotiating the sale.