Why is my house not selling? Dan Green’s guide to everything you need to know to get a sale

  • By Dan Green, Home Selling Expert Founder
  • 4 minutes read

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I'm a property expert that still remembers the days when having broadband was a selling point! My articles cover issues that homesellers face in the UK and answer the questions we're all asking. I've bought and sold properties and helped others do the same, so my writing comes from years of experience.

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Hello, I’m Dan Green, your go-to guy for all things property. Now, have you ever found yourself scratching your head, wondering, ‘Why is my house not selling?’. If you have, then trust me, you’re not alone.

The UK property market can be a tricky beast, but I’m here to help you navigate through it. In this guide, we’ll explore the reasons why your house might not be selling and, more importantly, what you can do about it. Whether it’s the price, the presentation, or even the estate agent, we’ll cover it all. So, let’s dive in and get your house sold!

1. Setting realistic expectations

Let’s get one thing out there at the start; your house is not unsellable. There’s a buyer for every property. But selling a house is a bit like making a great cup of tea; it takes time and patience. If you’re putting your property on the open market and you’re expecting it to get a buyer straight away, you might want to brace yourself for a bit of a reality check.

Let’s break down the timeline and set some realistic expectations so you can navigate the process with a clear head.


How long should it take to sell a house?

In the UK, the average time just to find a buyer on the open market is typically between 5 and 14 weeks. This can vary significantly depending on factors like location, market conditions, and the desirability of the property; all of which we’ll cover later.

But finding a buyer is only half the battle.

That’s because once you’ve got a buyer lined up, you’ll then need to tackle the legal processes. That’s the conveyancing, surveys, and all the paperwork. This legal stuff can add another 13 to 18 weeks to the timeline if you use a high street solicitor.

When you add it all up, the total time from listing your house to sealing the deal and moving out can range from 18 weeks to as long as six months, or possibly longer still.

Setting realistic expectations isn’t just about knowing the average timeframes. It’s about preparing yourself mentally and practically for what lies ahead. Here are some tips from me to help you set your expectations if you feel worried that your house is not selling.

 

  • Do your research:
    If you’ve read any of my other articles, you’ll know that I’m all about preparation and research (and cups of tea!). I’d recommend that you look at similar homes in your area to see how long they’ve been on the market. Websites like Rightmove and Zoopla can give you a sense of the average selling times for properties like yours. This comparison can give you a reality check and help you understand whether your expectations are in line with what’s happening on the market.
  • Talk to your estate agent:
    Assuming you’re selling on the open market, getting a professional opinion on a realistic timeframe for selling your home can help to settle your mind. Estate agents have their fingers on the pulse of the property market and can give you valuable insights. They can tell you whether your home is likely to sell quickly or if it might take a bit longer based on current market conditions and / or the specifics of your property.
  • Be patient:
    Remember, like a great cup of tea, good things come to those who wait. Selling a house isn’t something that happens overnight. It requires patience and persistence. Don’t be disheartened if your house doesn’t sell immediately. Instead, use the time to keep your property in tip-top condition.While patience is key, staying positive and proactive can also make the waiting game easier. Try to keep your home well-maintained, stay in regular contact with your estate agent, and be open to feedback from potential buyers. Sometimes small tweaks can make a big difference in how your property is perceived.By setting realistic expectations, you’ll be better prepared for the ups and downs of the selling process. It can be a bit of a rollercoaster, but with the right mindset and preparation, you can navigate it smoothly and successfully. So, take a deep breath, do your homework, and get ready for the journey ahead.

    Next up, I’m looking at the asking price…

2. Evaluating your asking price

Pricing your house correctly is like seasoning a dish; too much or too little and it just doesn’t work (and you’re left with a rather nasty tasty in your mouth). However, when you get it right, it can make your property irresistible to buyers. Time to find out more about why pricing is so crucial and how you can hit that sweet spot.

How pricing affects sales

The price tag on your home is the first thing that potential buyers see when they’re scrolling through lists of properties online. It’s your property’s first impression, and it needs to be spot on. If your asking price is too high, you risk scaring off buyers before they even set foot in your home.

On the other side of the coin, if your asking price is too low, it might send out the wrong message. Buyers could become suspicious, wondering if there’s something wrong with the property that isn’t immediately apparent.

Finding that right balance is key. You want to attract interest and offers, but without undervaluing your property. Let’s look at some common mistakes people make when pricing their homes, which can result in a house not selling…

  • Over-pricing:
    It’s natural to think your home is worth more because of the memories you’ve made there. You might feel that your beautifully maintained garden or the personal touches you’ve added make it more valuable. However, buyers are looking at your home with fresh eyes and will compare it to similar properties in the area. Overpricing can lead to your property sitting on the market for longer, eventually forcing you to reduce the price. This can make buyers wonder if there’s something wrong with it, further complicating the sale process.
  • Under-pricing:
    While setting a low price might seem like a good strategy to attract more interest, it can backfire. Buyers may wonder why the price is so low and suspect there are hidden issues. This can lead to fewer viewings and offers, ultimately affecting your ability to sell at a fair price. Additionally, a low price might attract bargain hunters who aren’t serious about buying, meaning you waste your time and energy. But then it becomes difficult to increase the price, so you’re in a whole world of pain and headaches.Here are some top tips from me to help you set the right price.
  • Objective evaluation:
    Try to view your home through the eyes of a buyer. What are its strengths and weaknesses? What does your place have that your neighbours haven’t? Be honest about its condition and features.
  • Be flexible:
    Be prepared to adjust your price based on feedback from potential buyers and the advice of your estate agent. If your home isn’t attracting enough interest, a slight reduction in price might make a massive difference.
  • Highlight unique features:
    If your home has something special, make sure it’s reflected in the price. Whether it’s a larger garden, a modern kitchen, a garage or off-road parking, these features can all justify a higher asking price.By carefully evaluating your asking price and setting it realistically, you’ll increase your chances of attracting serious buyers and achieving a successful sale. It’s all about finding that sweet spot where the price is attractive to buyers, but also fair for you.

3. Choosing the right estate agent

Picking the right estate agent can feel a bit like finding a needle in a haystack. There are loads out there, all promising to give you the moon on a stick. But not all estate agents are created equal and choosing the wrong one can turn the process of selling your house into a real headache. I’ve written a guide to choosing an estate agent and that will give you lots of insights, but I’ll briefly cover a few points here…

A good estate agent should be doing these five things:

  • Marketing your property
  • Arranging viewings
  • Negotiating offers
  • Advising on pricing
  • Handling paperwork

Here are three red flags that might suggest it’s time to part ways with your current estate agent:

  1. Lack of communication:
    You should never be left in the dark. If your agent isn’t keeping you updated regularly, that’s a big problem. You need to know about viewings, feedback from potential buyers, and any offers on the table. If you feel you’re being ‘ghosted’, find out why.
  2. Few viewings:
    If your home isn’t getting much interest, something’s amiss. This could be down to poor marketing, an asking price that’s too high, or your agent not pushing your property as hard as they should be.
  3. Poor marketing:
    Your home deserves to be shown in the best light. If the photos are blurry or don’t show off the best parts of your home, the description is mediocre, or your listing isn’t on all the major property sites, then quite simply, your agent isn’t doing their job properly.Choosing the right estate agent can make a world of difference to your selling experience, and how quickly you sell. Take your time, do your research, and don’t be afraid to ask your agent tough questions, such as ‘why is my house not selling?’. As I mentioned, please take a look at my guide to choosing an estate agent for more advice.

4. Boosting your home’s kerb appeal

I’m now moving to kerb appeal. Now, first impressions are everything, especially when it comes to selling your home. Think about a first date; you want to look your best, so you get a haircut and iron your clothes. You wouldn’t turn up wearing paint-splattered jeans, a ripped and faded band t-shirt and flip-flops. It’s the same with your house. The exterior is the first thing that potential buyers see, and you want to make sure it leaves a good lasting impression. A house with great kerb appeal invites buyers in and sets the stage for what they can expect inside.

Let’s find out more about why kerb appeal is crucial and explore some easy and affordable ways in which you can enhance it.

Why kerb appeal matters

A well-maintained exterior can woo buyers and encourage them to explore further, while a neglected one can deter them before they even step inside. Going back to the date analogy, a scruffy appearance might put off any potential suitor from even striking up a conversation. Here’s why kerb appeal is so important:

  • Attracts buyers: A visually appealing exterior can draw in potential buyers, making them more likely to request a viewing.
  • Increases perceived value: Homes with good kerb appeal often appear more valuable, which can justify a higher asking price.
  • Sets expectations: The exterior of your home sets the tone for what buyers can expect inside. A well-kept exterior suggests a well-maintained interior.
  • Competitive edge: In a competitive market, kerb appeal can give your home an edge over similar properties, simply because yours looks nicer.

Improving your home’s kerb appeal doesn’t have to break the bank. Small, inexpensive changes can make a big difference. Here are some practical tips to get you started:

  1. Paint the front door / garage door
    A fresh coat of paint on the front door can instantly rejuvenate your home’s appearance. Choose a colour that complements the rest of the exterior and stands out just enough to be inviting. Black, greys, blues, deep reds and greens are all safe options. Colours like lime, bright orange or purple might grab attention, but they aren’t going to be to everyone’s tastes and could date very quickly.
  2. Garden maintenance
    A tidy garden indicates that the home is well-cared for. Overgrown lawns and weeds can make a property look neglected. Mow the lawn regularly, trim hedges and bushes, weed the flower beds, and plant seasonal flowers for an added pop of colour. You don’t have to recreate the Chelsea Flower Show; just keep it subtle, tidy and appealing.
  3. Clean the windows
    Clean windows enhance the overall look of your home and allow more natural light to enter, making your interiors brighter and more inviting. Don’t forget to clean the windowsills and frames as well. It’s the small things that make all the difference!
  4. Upgrade your house numbers
    Modern, easy-to-read house numbers can add a touch of style and make your home easier to find. Choose numbers or a sign that complement your home’s style and install them where they are clearly visible from the street. You can now get backlit house numbers that look snazzy.
  5. Install outdoor lighting
    Good lighting enhances security and adds to the home’s appeal. Place solar lights along walkways, install motion-sensor lights near the garage, and try adding some decorative lights near the front door if they’re needed.
  6. Jet wash paths, patios and driveways
    Removing dirt and grime from paths and driveways makes the exterior look fresh and well-maintained. You can rent a power washer or hire a professional to clean driveways, paths, and any other paved surfaces that need attention. It can do wonders for the overall appearance and it’s so satisfying to watch all the dirt being washed away.
  7. Add decorative elements
    Small details like a new doormat or potted plants by the door can make your entrance look much more welcoming. Choose items that match the style and colours of your home’s exterior to tie-in everything you’ve done.

    With these easy and affordable tips, you can transform your home’s exterior from dated drab to flippin’ fab, making it appealing to potential buyers. Remember, the effort you put into your home’s kerb appeal can pay off significantly in terms of interest and offers. So, roll up your sleeves and get started on making your home shine on the outside!

    In the next section, we move to inside your home in case the reason your house is not selling lies there.

5. Enhancing property presentation

Making your home look its best is one of the best ways to attract buyers, as we just discovered by enhancing the kerb appeal. After all, a well-presented property can create a strong first impression and significantly increase the chances of a successful sale. Let’s now explore how to improve your property’s presentation…

The importance of decluttering

A cluttered home is a major turn-off for potential buyers. It makes rooms look smaller, suggests a lack of storage space, and can distract buyers from seeing the true potential of your property. After all, buyers need to be able to imagine how they would use the space. Here’s how to declutter effectively:

  1. Start with one room at a time:
    Tackle one room before moving on to the next. This makes the task a lot more manageable and much less overwhelming. Let’s face it, you don’t want to be emptying the bedrooms onto the landing, and then give-up!
  2. Remove personal items:
    Pack away personal photographs, memorabilia, and items that might be unique to your taste. Buyers need to imagine themselves living in the space, and too many personal items can hinder this. You might love the photo of your family holiday with you all pushing the Leaning Tower of Pisa, but it’s not going to convince someone to buy your house, so take it down.
  3. Organise storage spaces:
    Clean out cabinets and other storage areas because overstuffed storage suggests that your home lacks adequate storage, even if that’s not the case. But what do you do with it all? Well, that takes me to my next suggestion…
  4. Donate or store unneeded items:
    Moving house is a great time to take stock, look around and think ‘do I really need to keep this?’. If you can, donate items to charity that you no longer need or use. And for things you want to keep but don’t need immediately, consider renting a storage unit until your home sells.
  5. Deep clean:
    Never underestimate the power of thoroughly cleaning your home to make it sparkle. Focus on windows, carpets, kitchens, and bathrooms. Don’t forget the less obvious places too, like behind appliances and under furniture.

Repairs

Minor repairs and upgrades can significantly impact how buyers perceive your home. They can make the difference between a quick sale and a property that lingers on the market. Here’s how to tackle these:

  1. Fix leaks and drips:
    Address any leaky taps, showerheads, or toilets. These are red flags for buyers because they suggest potential hidden issues. Put yourself in their shoes, and you’d think ‘Well, if they haven’t fixed these small things, what big things have they ignored and are trying to hide?’
  2. Repaint scuffed walls:
    A fresh coat of paint can work wonders. Stick to neutral colours that have broad appeal. Bright or unusual shades might not be to everyone’s taste, but calm and subtle will always win the day.
  3. Update fixtures and hardware:
    Replacing old or worn-out fixtures like door handles, light switches, and cabinet knobs can give your home an updated look quickly, without making a significant investment.
  4. Repair any visible damage:
    Patch up holes in walls, fix loose tiles, and repair any damaged flooring because buyers will notice these details during viewings and could be put off from making an offer.If you’d like some ideas, take a look at our Instagram page where you’ll find ‘before and after’ pictures of properties we’ve renovated.

6. Addressing structural issues

In the last section, I touched on repairing visible damage because structural issues in a property can be a major deterrent for potential buyers. Cracks, damp, and subsidence are all issues that can make buyers think twice, or over-estimate how much it’ll cost to fix; and therefore, significantly reduce their offer.

Addressing these problems proactively can help ensure a smoother selling process and avoid price negotiations or lost sales. So let’s delve into the common structural issues, and discover how to identify and fix them.

Common structural issues that deter buyers

Structural issues can severely impact the appeal of your property and might be a reason for a house not selling. Here are some of the most common problems that can deter buyers (and how to fix them):

  • Cracks:
    • Hairline cracks are often harmless, but large, zigzag cracks can indicate serious issues.
    • Check around door frames, windows, and ceilings.
    • Fill small, non-structural cracks with filler (like caulk) and repaint, or consult a structural engineer to assess and repair significant cracks.
  • Damp:
    • Signs of damp are a musty smell, peeling wallpaper, water stains, and mould growth.
    • The different types are rising damp (coming from the ground), penetrating damp (from leaks), and condensation damp.
    • For rising damp, you’ll need to install a damp-proof course. For penetrating damp, try to repair the leaks and seal your walls. For condensation damp, improve ventilation and use dehumidifiers.
  • Subsidence:
    • This is when the ground beneath the property shifts, causing the foundation to sink.
    • Signs of subsidence are cracks in walls (particularly wider at the top), doors and windows sticking, and uneven floors.
    • You’ll need the services of a structural engineer to assess the extent of subsidence. Underpinning is a solution, but it involves strengthening the foundations and that’s a specialist job that can be costly.
  • Roof issues:
    • Signs of roof problems are missing tiles, a sagging roofline, and leaks in the loft.
    • Ensure the roof is watertight by replacing missing or broken tiles.
    • To repair a sagging roofline requires reinforcing roof supports or even a complete roof replacement in severe cases.
  • Plumbing and electrical issues:
    • Slow drains, low water pressure, flickering lights, and frequent circuit breaker trips are all signs of problems.
    • Address any plumbing leaks and ensure drains are clear (a drain unblocker can work wonders in no time)
    • A certified electrician can inspect and fix any wiring issues.

7. Consider the property market and timing

Timing is everything, especially when it comes to selling your home. Understanding the property market and choosing the right time to sell can significantly impact your success. I’ll now go through the nuances of market conditions, the best and worst times to sell, and alternatives for those of you that need to sell quickly.

The seasonal nature of the property market

The property market experiences fluctuations throughout the year, and various factors influence these changes, including economic conditions, interest rates, and seasonal trends. Here’s how these elements all play a role:

  • Economic conditions: A strong economy typically boosts consumer confidence, leading to more people looking to buy homes. Equally, during economic downturns, buyers may be more cautious.
  • Interest rates: Lower interest rates can make mortgages more affordable, encouraging more buyers to enter the market. Higher rates may deter potential buyers due to increased borrowing costs.
  • Seasonal trends: The property market often follows a seasonal pattern. Understanding these trends can help you to pick the optimal time to list your property. I’ll explain these now…

Spring and early summer

This period is traditionally the most active time for the property market. Here’s why:

  • Longer days: With more daylight hours, people are more inclined to view properties.
  • Better weather: Pleasant weather makes moving easier and properties look a lot more appealing. Gardens are in full bloom, enhancing kerb appeal and making outdoor spaces look their best.
  • School holidays: Families prefer to move during school holidays to minimise disruption for their children.

 

If you’re reading this and thinking, ‘Dan, why is my house not selling?’ it could just be due to the time of the year. If you can wait until spring, try putting it on the market then. If you can’t wait and need a fast sale, Springbok Properties can help you by giving you a cash offer.

8. Dealing with poor location or area problems

Location, location, location. It’s one of the oldest adages in property sales, and with good reason, too. Sometimes, even if your home is perfect, the location can be a significant barrier to attracting buyers.

Factors like high crime rates, noise pollution, or unsightly surroundings can turn potential buyers away, no matter how amazing your home might be. However, there are ways to mitigate these issues and highlight the positives of your location. Here’s how to effectively deal with poor location or area problems…

The influence of location on buyer decisions

The location of a property can significantly influence its attractiveness to buyers. Here are some common location-related issues that can affect property sales:

  • Crime rates:
    • High crime rates can make buyers wary of the safety and security of the area.
    • Potential buyers often research crime statistics online, and negative reports can be a deterrent.
  • Noise pollution:
    • Proximity to busy roads, airports, railways, or industrial areas can lead to excessive noise.
    • Noise pollution can affect the quality of life, making a property less desirable.
  • Unsightly surroundings:
    • Nearby derelict buildings or industrial facilities can detract from the appeal of a property.
    • Visual blight can create a negative impression, even if the property itself is well-maintained.
  • Lack of amenities:
    • Areas without good schools, parks, shops, or transport links can be less attractive, particularly to families and commuters.

Whilst you can’t pick up your house and change its location, you can take steps to reduce the negative aspects. Here’s how…

  1. Improve visual appeal
    Plant hedges and trees to create a green buffer that helps to screen out unsightly views and reduce noise pollution. Mature hedges and trees can also add privacy and enhance the overall aesthetics of your property. Solid fencing can provide a physical barrier to unsightly surroundings and increase security, too.
  2. Enhance the interior
    Installing soundproof windows, doors, and insulation can significantly reduce noise pollution from outside. Consider putting up thick curtains, buying rugs, and upholstered furniture to help absorb sound. Investing in high-quality finishes and modern conveniences inside the home can serve to distract buyers from the external issues, so make your property an oasis of comfort, calm and sophisticated style. 

    Dealing with poor location or area problems requires a proactive approach. By improving the visual appeal of your property, enhancing its interior, and highlighting positive aspects of the community, you can mitigate some of the negative impacts of a less-than-ideal location.

9. Pest and plant infestations

One of the biggest turn-offs for potential buyers – and a reason for a house not selling – is discovering pest or plant infestations in a property. Rodents, insects, and invasive plants like Japanese Knotweed can significantly impact the desirability and value of your home. Addressing these issues promptly and effectively is crucial to maintaining your property’s appeal and ensuring a smooth sale. Time to look at each in more detail…

Pests

Rodents (rats and mice)

  • Signs of infestation: Droppings, gnaw marks, nests, and scratching or scurrying noises, particularly at night.
  • Impact on sales: Rodent infestations can deter buyers due to health concerns and the potential damage they can cause to the property’s structure and wiring.

Insects (ants, cockroaches, termites)

  • Signs of infestation: Visible insects, damaged wood, termite droppings, and musty odours.
  • Impact on sales: Insect infestations can suggest poor maintenance and hygiene, making buyers wary of hidden problems such as nests.

Woodlice and Silverfish

  • Signs of infestation: Sightings of these pests, particularly in damp areas like bathrooms.
  • Impact on sales: While not harmful, their presence indicates moisture issues, which can be a big red flag for buyers.

Wasps and bees

  • Signs of infestation: Nests in eaves, lofts, or garages, and increased insect activity.
  • Impact on sales: Nesting insects can pose a danger to occupants and need to be professionally removed at a cost, and then prevented from returning.

Invasive plants

Japanese Knotweed

  • Signs of infestation: Rapid growth, bamboo-like stems, and heart-shaped leaves. It can grow through cracks in concrete and tarmac.
  • Impact on sales: This plant is notorious for damaging property foundations and structures, making it a significant concern for buyers and mortgage lenders.
  • Professional removal: Contact a specialist for treatment. They may use herbicides or excavation methods to remove the plant.
  • Property disclosure: Be transparent with potential buyers about the presence of Japanese Knotweed and the measures taken to address it. This is often required by law.

Giant Hogweed

  • Signs of infestation: Large, umbrella-shaped flower heads, and grows up to five metres. Contact with skin can even cause severe burns.
  • Impact on sales: Health hazards and aggressive growth make this plant particularly troublesome.
  • Herbicide treatment: Apply appropriate herbicides to control these plants. Follow local guidelines for safe application.
  • Physical removal: Wear protective clothing and carefully remove plants to prevent skin contact and seed spread. Ideally, call in a professional.

Handling pest and plant infestations promptly and effectively is crucial to maintaining your property’s appeal and market value. By using professional pest control services, and managing infestations proactively, you can reduce the negative impacts of these issues. Transparency with potential buyers about the measures taken to address infestations will build trust and ensure a smoother sales process, too.

 

10. Alternative selling methods

Sometimes, the traditional route of selling a property through an estate agent isn’t the best option, so if you’re starting to think that your house is unsellable, it’s time to consider a different way to sell.

Depending on your priorities and circumstances, alternative selling methods such as auctions and fast cash sale companies can offer distinct advantages; all of which are covered in my other articles.

Choosing the right selling method depends on your priorities, whether it’s achieving the highest possible price, ensuring a quick sale, or minimising the risk of the deal falling through. Auctions and fast cash sale companies offer you alternatives to traditional sales, each with their own set of advantages and disadvantages.

 

11. Conclusion

Selling a house on the open market with an estate agent can sometimes be a daunting process; especially if your property has any of the issues I’ve covered in this article. However, armed with the right strategies, knowledge, and a bit of patience, you can navigate the complexities and successfully sell your home. Here’s a recap of the key points to keep in mind to ensure a smooth and successful property sale:

Understanding the market timeline

It’s crucial to set realistic expectations from the outset. Understand that selling a house typically takes time, and on average, it can take several months to find a buyer and complete the sale, if you use the estate agent route. Be patient and prepared for potential challenges along the way.

Making a great first impression

Presentation is key to attracting potential buyers. A well-presented home stands out and creates a positive first impression. Focus on decluttering, cleaning, and making necessary repairs to ensure your property looks its best. Consider staging your home to highlight its best features and create an inviting atmosphere. Remember, buyers need to be able to picture themselves living in the space.

Exploring different options

If traditional methods aren’t bringing you the desired results, consider alternative selling options such as a fast cash sale company. These can offer quicker solutions and can be particularly useful if you need to sell your property urgently, in any condition, in any location. So even if you live a stone’s throw from an airport, have holes in the wall, and a quabble of woodlice in the bathroom, it doesn’t matter. You can get a cash offer from Springbok Properties by clicking the ‘get offer’ link on this page.

12. Further reading

I’ve put together a list of 10 UK websites that offer valuable information, tools, and advice on various aspects of selling your property. By putting aside some time to explore these resources, you can gain deeper insights, stay updated with market trends, and find the support you need to help you sell your home.

Website Description
Rightmove
https://www.rightmove.co.uk/
Rightmove is the UK’s largest property portal, providing a vast array of listings, market data, and property valuation tools. It’s a great resource for researching property prices and trends in your area.
Zoopla
https://www.zoopla.co.uk/
Zoopla offers comprehensive property listings, market analysis, and tools for both buyers and sellers. Their platform includes historical price data and community insights.
OnTheMarket
https://www.onthemarket.com/
OnTheMarket features property listings from across the UK, including exclusive properties not listed on other portals. It’s useful for getting a broader view of the property market.
HomeOwners Alliance
https://hoa.org.uk/
The HomeOwners Alliance offers guides, advice, and resources for homeowners at all stages of buying and selling. Their articles cover everything from finding an estate agent to completing the sale.
Gov.uk
https://www.gov.uk/
The UK government’s official website provides essential information on the legal and financial aspects of selling a property, including taxes, regulations, and planning permissions.
National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA)
https://www.propertymark.co.uk/
The NAEA offers resources for finding accredited estate agents and provides professional advice on property transactions. It’s a valuable site for ensuring you work with reputable professionals.
The Property Ombudsman (TPO)
https://www.tpos.co.uk/
The TPO provides guidance on resolving disputes with estate agents, letting agents, and property managers. Their site includes a comprehensive code of practice for industry professionals.
MoneySavingExpert
https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/
MoneySavingExpert provides tips and advice on managing the financial aspects of selling a home, from budgeting for moving costs to understanding mortgage options.
allAgents
https://www.allagents.co.uk/
allAgents is a review and rating platform for estate agents and cash buyers. It’s a useful tool for researching and choosing a reliable agent based on real customer feedback and comparable metrics such as valuation accuracy.
Springbok Properties blog
https://springbokproperties.co.uk/blog/
The Springbok Properties blog has articles and tips specifically geared towards selling homes quickly and efficiently, including advice on working with cash buyers and preparing your home for sale.

 

13. FAQs

Selling a house can come with a lot of questions, especially if you’re navigating the process for the first time. To help you better understand the ins and outs of selling your property, I’ve compiled this list of five frequently asked questions and their answers.

  1. How long does it typically take to sell a house in the UK?
    The time it takes to sell a house in the UK varies, but on average, it takes about five to 14 weeks to find a buyer. The entire process, including the legal work, usually takes between 18 to 32 weeks if you’re selling on the open market. These timescales are slashed when you use a fast cash buyer that has it’s own panel of solicitors.
  2. What should I do if my house isn’t selling?
    If your house isn’t selling, consider adjusting the price, improving your home’s presentation, enhancing your marketing efforts, or changing your estate agent. Additionally, exploring alternative selling methods like auctions or cash buyers might be helpful.
  3. How can I make my property more appealing to buyers?
    To make your property more appealing, ensure it is clean, decluttered, and well-maintained. Highlight its best features, use neutral decor, and consider small upgrades like repainting and fixing minor repairs.
  4. Can I sell my house if it has structural issues?
    Yes, but you should address any structural issues upfront. Get a survey to identify problems, and consider fixing them if it’s cost-effective, or adjust your asking price to reflect the issues. Transparency with potential buyers is always important. Alternatively, you could sell to a cash buyer that will buy any property in any condition.
  5. What are the benefits of using a cash buying company?
    Cash buying companies can give you a quick and hassle-free sale, often completing transactions within days. This is ideal if you need to sell quickly, or you have a property that needs repairs that you can’t afford, or don’t want to undertake. However, they typically offer below market value prices, so weigh up the speed and convenience against the potential financial loss. Have a look at my other articles for more information.

If you have any further questions, feel free to contact us for advice. Good luck, and happy selling!

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By Dan Green, Home Selling Expert Founder

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By Dan Green, Home Selling Expert Founder

I'm a property expert that still remembers the days when having broadband was a selling point! My articles cover issues that homesellers face in the UK and answer the questions we're all asking. I've bought and sold properties and helped others do the same, so my writing comes from years of experience.

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Success rate when selling
through estate agents

Selling to house-buying company

  • Formal offer within 24-48 hours
  • Complete in as little as 14 days
  • No contracts - change your mind if you aren’t happy
  • No viewings or chains
  • Sell your house as-is
  • Sell for approx 80-85% market value
  • Some disreputable companies

Selling with Estate Agent

  • Wait for viewings and offers
  • Delays with solicitors
  • Lengthy contracts - can’t withdraw
  • Viewings at inconvenient times, many will be in chain
  • House should be at its best to impress viewers
  • Get the highest price possible
  • Estate agents are tightly regulated

On average, you should expect to sell for 85-90% of you property’s full value when selling by auction.

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