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Thinking of moving? Countdown to Christmas

Friday, October 13, 2017

Traditionally, in autumn, our thoughts turn to moving. The kids are back at school, the weather is still mild and early evenings are still light enough for viewings. However, buyers, sellers, landlords and solicitors will all be keen to finalise property transactions before Christmas and the New Year, so with just 10 weeks to go it’s important to get moving! Selling your house or letting a property may seem daunting but there are ways to streamline the process, avoiding stress and financial penalties along the way. By enlisting professionals with expert knowledge and legal protection, you minimise the risks involved, and can save time and money.

Time is of the essence so it pays to have a property expert in your corner; someone who knows exactly what is happening in the local property market. Truly local experts will know about factors that boost prices in the area, such as planned new transport links, which could maximise your opportunity for a quick sale or let at a good price.

Pricing is all important if you’re selling quickly and there are so many things to consider but, by taking expert advice, marketing your property can be plain sailing. Firstly be realistic about your pricing - an NAEA (National Association of Estate Agents) or Association of Residential Letting Agents (ARLA) Propertymark member agent like The Frost Partnership will give you a realistic, accurate valuation, taking into account key local factors such as parking, local amenities and transport links, rather than just telling you what you want to hear.

First impressions really do count so showcase your home and maximise its appeal to a wide audience. Try to view your home as if you were a potential buyer and address any issues. A thorough declutter and clean inside and out will pay dividends. It is not a good time for a complete makeover but it is worth staging your property to sell or let faster, using accessories that you can take with you when you move.

We’ll happily advise on maximising the potential of your property and give you an effective marketing campaign with professional particulars, quality photographs, 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 showcased to millions through websites such as Rightmove and Onthemarket, in press and via social media, generating quality viewing appointments.

Our team of friendly staff is on hand every step of the way, accompanying viewings and handling negotiations on your behalf to ensure you achieve the maximum value for your property. We can answer any tricky questions about the property, as well as promoting the local area. This may help potential buyers or tenants to reach a quicker, more informed decision to purchase or rent your home.

As part of our service we qualify the financial status and position of potential buyers before an offer is made ensuring that they are in a position to progress their offer if it is accepted. Their status may affect the speed of your sale and likelihood of a smooth completion. We’ll be on hand every step of the way.

If time is short, get a head start on all the paperwork that goes into a property transaction and be “market ready”. 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. 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.

With Christmas approaching, consider asking your removal company to pack for you - they will ensure your personal possessions are secure in transit. Inform utility companies of your forthcoming moving date so that you receive accurate bills. If you are letting, your agent can sort this for you as well as professional cleaning, inventory and any maintenance that is required. If you do find yourself moving over the festive period, try to plan ahead and organise things so that you still have time to relax and enjoy the festivities. Make time for carol concerts, visits to Father Christmas and parties. Christmas is about enjoying traditions, spending time with family and friends and this year, celebrating in a happy new home!