Home Buyers Guide: Getting ready for sale
Are you looking to move house? There can be a lot to think about including getting your home ready for sale. At Warwickshire Mortgages, we know how stressful the homebuying process can be for individuals, couples and families. In this home buyers’ guide, we share tips on what to consider when you’re selling your home and buying another property.
What to do when you are selling a house
When you are preparing your home for sale, it’s a good idea to declutter, fix minor issues, and deep clean your home before viewings begin. Think about first impressions and your home’s ‘kerb appeal’ (how it appears from the outside). Tidy up driveways and gardens.
Estate agents will ask you to get an EPC (energy performance certificate), if you haven’t got one already. An EPC can affect saleability – for example, a low score usually means that a property will cost more to heat. Likewise, check the EPC for any property you are looking to buy too, so you have a good understanding of your potential energy costs.
You will need to get a professional valuation by an estate agent. It can be a good idea to ask a few agents so you can compare their findings. Estate agents’ fees vary; some have fixed costs and some charge using commission-based fees. Look out for the small print in estate agent contracts as many require a minimum tie-in period of between 4 to 16 weeks.
Helpful home buyer tips
Although house viewings can be exciting, it’s important to set a budget before you start looking at properties. Your figure is likely to be determined by your current house value, mortgage deal, and savings. If you have a mortgage and plan to move home, check for early repayment charges and whether you can port your existing deal to avoid extra costs.
Whether you have a mortgage or it’s your first time applying for one, you will need a mortgage Agreement in Principle (AIP) from your lender. Once you know how much you can afford to borrow, you will be in a credible position to make an offer on your new home. Many estate agents won’t consider an offer unless you have an AIP.
Moving house is a big decision. Before you decide on a property, research the surrounding area carefully, especially if you are relocating. If you’re moving to a new location, check that you have the right amenities for your needs, including schools, healthcare, shops, and transport links. Make a shortlist and set your own criteria to assess each property.
For more information on the homebuying process and applying for a mortgage, see our helpful guides below:
Preparing to Buy Your Dream Home…
5 Things Every Home Buyer Should Know
Moving Home Mortgage Advice in Coventry and Warwickshire
Find a home buyer mortgage
Moving house is one of the most stressful life decisions you will ever make, so it’s important to get it right. At Warwickshire Mortgages, we know just how overwhelming the homebuying process can be and our team are here to answer your mortgage queries. Whether you are looking to port your existing mortgage or get a new deal, we’ll talk you through everything you need to know. Our aim is to give you clarity on your homebuying journey.
Are you looking to move house? Book a free, no-obligation, 30-minute chat with our expert team.