Selling a home is often considered one of life’s biggest stressors, and there’s much to consider before putting a property on the market. Thankfully, this guide to choosing the right agency and valuing your property should help by setting out what you need to know, and how to avoid the common pitfalls that can occur when navigating home sales.
Current UK Market Snapshot: What Sellers Should Know
Before placing their home on the market, sellers need to be aware of the current market conditions and predictions for the coming months.
UK house prices reached record highs last month, although it’s important to note that there are regional variations. The south west in particular has seen a downturn in house prices, following the introduction of a 100% council tax charge on second homes earlier this year. At the other end of the spectrum, Northern Ireland leads on growth, with house prices having risen 8.1% since last year.=
Many experts predict this rise will continue into 2026 and beyond, but sellers also need to consider the potential impact of upcoming changes to government policy on the housing market.
Legal and Regulatory Considerations: Stay Ahead of Reform
The treasury recently announced that it was considering a radical reform of Stamp Duty. If the planned changes go ahead, a new tax would apply to the sale of properties worth more than £500,000, in a move that would impact both buyers and sellers of high-value homes.
The Renters’ Rights Bill is also set to pass into law in early 2026, improving the situation for the millions of private renters in the UK. The bill is predicted to see a fall in would-be landlords seeking buy-to-let mortgages, but the impact on the wider housing market is as yet unclear.
Sellers also need to be aware of another reform bill – the Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024, which has now passed into law, and makes it easier (and cheaper) for homeowners to extend the leasehold on their property or buy the freehold.
Streamlining the Legal Process: Digital Tools and Conveyancing Aid
When searching for estate agents in London, it’s important to consider how technological advances can be used to speed up the process of buying and selling property.
Opting for a conveyancer that utilises the latest digital tools to make the process smoother for clients, can reduce some of the hassle that comes with selling your home, and can reduce the time it takes to complete the process.
Not only does this mean fewer trips to your solicitor’s office, and a more efficient and timely move, but it can also reduce the likelihood of a sale falling through.
Valuations and Red Flags: Ensuring a Fair and Accurate Price
An accurate property valuation is vital for a successful sale. Unfortunately pitfalls at this early stage are common.
When getting your home valued, it’s flattering to receive a valuation that’s higher than expected, and – potentially – significantly higher than similar properties that have recently sold or are for sale in your local area.
Be wary, however, of going with an estate agent who offers an inflated valuation to win your custom. There are numerous drawbacks to placing your home on the market with an inflated asking price, including:
- Your property not appearing in search results when potential buyers filter by price.
- Fewer viewings because buyers see your property as over their budget.
- Your house sitting on the market longer, delaying your move.
- Having to drop your asking price several times, which can be a red flag to potential buyers.
- A lower final sale price than if your home had been valued correctly to begin with.
To get an accurate figure, it’s good practice to get several valuations, and to do your own research of recent property sale prices in your area.
Above all, it’s important to be realistic about what your property is worth and to remember that while it may be your much-loved home, you’re placing it on the market to sell, and a fair asking price will help you attract buyers and achieve a sale.
