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Sales FAQ

How much are your fees?

We explain our fee structure in person when we do a valuation. This is based on the type of property, market conditions and timescales. Unlike some agents, we also consider tailored fees where appropriate, such as a tiered fee structure that varies depending on the price achieved.

 

There are no hidden fees – all photography and marketing are included. And we work on a no sale no fee basis, so our fees will only become binding when you exchange contracts, and due for payment once completion has taken place.

 

Are you regulated by professional bodies?

As a regulated estate agent, we are members of the Property Ombudsman, NALS and Safe agent.

 

When should I put my property on the market?

It’s better to have your property on the market before you begin searching for a new home. This suggests to potential sellers and agents that you are serious about moving, and it places you in a stronger position. If you accept an offer, most buyers will understand that it may take some time before you find your next property.

 

Where will you advertise my property?

We use our own website and social media, along with all of the major property portals. We also display properties in our very prominent office windows and continue to advertise in traditional national and local print publications including our in-house magazine (Access London) which has a circulation of 65,000.

 

How do you reference the tenants?

Tenants are robustly referenced to ensure they can pay rent on time each month. We collate credit reports, employment and previous landlord references, and ensure they have a sufficient income and savings to afford your rent. This will be presented to you in a final report, which you will have the opportunity to discuss and agree before progressing further.

 

Do I have to have a board outside my property?

The short answer is no. We recommend one because 1 in 5 enquiries come from sale boards, but the choice is always yours.

 

How many viewings should I expect?

It depends. As a rule of thumb, you can probably expect around 5-10 viewings per week. The more people who view your property, the faster it will sell.

 

Do you accompany all viewings?

Yes, we keep extended opening hours for this reason. All our keys are kept on a secure tagging system. Research and experience tell us that buyers feel most comfortable when viewing with an agent rather than the seller. However, if a buyer requests a second viewing, it can be beneficial for the seller to be there.

 

What happens after a viewing?

We’ll let you know feedback after every appointment. You’ll also receive a weekly call from one of our team to keep you in the loop with general progress.

 

How do I consider the best offer from a buyer?

To help you make a decision, we’ll tell you as much as possible about your potential buyer and their ability to proceed. As well as considering the price offered, the position of the buyer makes a big difference in achieving a successful sale. We are acting for you, the seller, and will always give you advice that is in your best interests.

 

How do you make sure a buyer has the funds?

We ask any potential buyer for proof of deposit and/or proof of cash along with a copy of their AIP (mortgage agreement in principle) at the point of making an offer. If a buyer has yet to secure a mortgage in principle, we will ask them to be qualified by our in-house financial advisers.

 

When should I instruct my solicitor?

We advise instructing your solicitor the moment you put the property on the market. This allows them time to prepare paperwork well before you receive any offers.

 

Will you keep my property on the market if I accept an offer?

We usually advise that you remove the property from the market to show ‘good will’ and allow the buyer to organise a survey and instruct a solicitor. If we feel that the buyer is not moving at a sufficient pace, we may advise you to remarket the property.

 

What legal proceedings are involved?

Once a sale is agreed, you’ll need a conveyancing solicitor to handle the legal side. It’s essential that you find someone you can trust who will work with you and your estate agent to make the process as stress-free as possible. When the solicitor’s details for both parties have been received, the sale is confirmed in writing and we’ll keep you regularly updated on the progress of your sale.

 

Will my buyers request a survey?

In most cases, they will, especially if they are taking out a mortgage. Our sales letters usually confirm that a survey is required within 14 days from the date of agreeing to the offer and we will keep you updated along the way.

 

How quickly can we exchange contracts?

It depends on many factors. As a rough guide, it’s usually within 4-12 weeks. We have extensive discussions to try and match your timeframe and get this agreed at the point of sale. Factors such as instructing your solicitor and a mortgage provider early on (if required) can make a big difference.

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