Thinking of selling this summer? The sooner you start planning, the better.
Most people underestimate how long it takes to go from thinking about selling to actually moving. If you want to move this summer, now is the time to start getting organised.
Most people underestimate how long it takes to go from deciding to sell, to actually moving out of the front door. It's not just a case of putting your home online, agreeing a sale and moving a few weeks later.
There's the market appraisal, preparation, photography, marketing, viewings, offers, negotiation, choosing the right buyer and then the legal process after that. That all takes time and and if your plan is to move during the summer, or at least be well on your way by then, the clock has already started ticking.
Why timing matters
A lot of homeowners think they can wait until they feel completely ready before doing anything. But if you want to move within a particular timescale, waiting too long can put you under pressure.
- You may need time to prepare the property properly.
- You may need to find the right buyer.
- Your buyer may need a mortgage.
- There may be a chain involved.
- Solicitors will need to deal with searches, enquiries and contracts.
None of that happens overnight. So, if you're thinking, “We might sell this summer,” it is worth starting the conversation now. That doesn't mean you have to go on the market immediately. It just means you can understand your options before you need to make a decision.
Start with a market appraisal
The most useful first step is to book a proper appraisal. Not because you have to sell straight away, but because it gives you clarity. You can find out what your home is likely to be worth in the current market, how it compares with other homes locally and what buyers are looking for right now.
You may find that moving is more realistic than you thought. You may decide you need more time. You may want to make a few improvements before going to market. Either way, you will be making the decision with better information.
Do not rush the preparation
Good preparation can make a real difference to the way buyers respond to your home. You don't always need to spend a lot of money, but you do need to look at the property with fresh eyes.
- Is the garden tidy?
- Does the front of the house create a good first impression?
- Are there any small jobs that need finishing?
- Do the rooms feel clear and easy to understand?
- Could the property photograph better with a few simple changes?
These things matter because buyers make quick decisions. Before they ever step through the door, they have already judged your home from the photos, floorplan and online advert. So the better the preparation, the stronger your launch is likely to be.
The launch is important
When your home first goes online, it normally gets its biggest burst of attention. That early stage is really important. If the price, photos, description and viewing strategy are right, you give yourself the best chance of creating early interest. If the launch is weak, the property can lose momentum quickly.
That's why it is worth getting advice before you are in a rush. The best results usually come from a clear plan, not from trying the market and hoping for the best.
Summer buyers are still looking
Some sellers worry that summer is too quiet because people are away or thinking about holidays. There will always be distractions, but serious buyers do not simply disappear.
Families may want to move before the new school year. Buyers may want to be settled before autumn. Others may have already sold and need to find somewhere quickly.
If your home is priced correctly, presented well and marketed properly, summer can still be a great time to sell. But the key is to be ready.
What should you do now?
If you are thinking about selling this summer, the best thing to do is get advice early. Find out what your home may be worth. Understand how the local market is performing. Ask what buyers are looking for. Get a clear idea of the likely timescale. Click the link below and one of our team will be in touch.
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07969 638349
duncan.kaye@keysandlee.co.uk
