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Thinking of moving? Countdown to Christmas

Monday, October 3, 2016

Autumn is a good time to think about moving with early evenings still light for viewings and no major holidays until Christmas. However, buyers, tenants and solicitors are loathe to finalise transactions over Christmas so it’s important to get on the market as early as possible. There are ways to streamline your move avoiding both stress and financial penalties and, by using the services of professionals with expert knowledge and legal protection, you minimise the risks and could be in by Christmas.

Pricing is all important for a quick sale so discuss your pricing strategy with your local NAEA or ARLA licensed estate agent. The Frost Partnership will give you a realistic valuation, using in-depth experience of the property market taking into account key local factors rather than just telling you what you want to hear.

There are so many things to consider but, by taking expert advice, marketing your property can be plain sailing.Using in-depth experience of the local property market we can advise you of the current value of your property taking into account current market conditions and key local factors such as parking, local amenities and transport links.

Showcase your home! First impressions really count so prepare your home both for photography and for viewings to appeal to your target market. View your home as a potential buyer might and address any snags. “Staging” can make your property sell or let faster, and can also potentially add value.

We can advise on how to maximise the potential of your property and develop an effective marketing campaign including professional particulars with floorplans and a video tour. When you market your property with Frosts you access thousands of potential buyers and tenants throughout our 15 linked office network across Buckinghamshire, Berkshire and Middlesex, through over 30 associated London offices and associates across the UK and worldwide. It will be seen by millions through Rightmove and Onthemarket, in press and via social media, generating quality viewing appointments.

Make the most of these by using the expertise of your estate agent. Our team of professional and friendly staff is on hand every step of the way, accompanying viewings and handling negotiations on your behalf to ensure you receive the maximum value for your property. They can answer any detailed questions about the property, and promote the local area which may help potential buyers or tenants to reach a quicker and more informed decision to purchase or let your home.

Your agent can use viewing appointments to gain useful information about potential buyers such as whether they are in a chain, are first-time or cash buyers. Their status may affect the speed of your sale and likelihood of a quick completion. Your agent can also find out how they plan to finance the purchase or let and whether they need to secure a mortgage, or references, which could take time.

Get “market ready” with a head start on all the paperwork that goes into a property transaction. Instruct a solicitor and start the conveyancing early if you want to keep on track for a quick sale. They can start to draw up a contract, apply for title deeds and initiate local searches. You can be assembling paperwork too, such as any planning consents if you are selling or compliance/safety certificates if you are letting. Once you have accepted an offer, a good estate agent will manage all the paperwork, communicating with solicitors and keeping in regular contact with you to keep you informed throughout the process.

If you do find yourself moving over the festive period, try to plan ahead and organise things so that you have time to relax and enjoy the festivities. You’ll want to do all you can to reduce the stress levels leading up to moving day. Finally, don’t just focus on the move to the exclusion of everything else. Go to the carol concert, visit Father Christmas and see the lights. Christmas is about enjoying traditions, spending time with family and friends and this year, a happy new home!