Launching Your Property onto the Market:

Before setting your property on the market through an agent, there are several preparatory steps you need to take:

Securing the Agreement: Agree on the price and the services your agent will offer. It's crucial to read and comprehend the terms of business before affixing your signature, as this confirms your contractual obligations.

Verifying Your Identity: For security purposes and to adhere to Anti-Money Laundering regulations, your agent will require proof of your identity. This typically involves providing a photo ID, such as a driver's license or passport, along with proof of your address.

Energy Performance Certificate (EPC): To legally market your property, an EPC is required unless your property is exempt, such as being listed or officially protected. EPCs last for ten years, so you might already have one if you've moved within the last decade. Your agent can arrange this if needed.

Optimising Your Property's Online Presence

The digital showcase of your property is pivotal in attracting interest. To ensure your listing stands out:

• Include a minimum of six to seven quality photographs, featuring both interior and exterior shots, captured on a bright day—preferably by a professional photographer.

• Avoid season-specific decorations in your photographs to ensure your listing remains evergreen.

• Focus on showcasing spaces, not personal items or furniture, to avoid nondescript images.

• Provide a detailed description, including room dimensions, to give potential buyers a clear understanding of the property.

• A floor plan is essential for illustrating the property's layout and scale.

• Personal items, especially photographs, should not be visible in your listing images.
  

Empowering Your Agent

The more your agent knows the better equipped they are to market your property effectively. Preparing detailed information about your property and its surroundings can streamline the valuation process and is also beneficial during conveyancing.

Essential Information to Compile:

• Financials: Be ready to disclose your property's council tax, energy and water bills, and insurance costs.

• Leasehold Properties: Provide details on annual service charges, payment schedules, the efficiency of the managing agent, lease length, and any upcoming major works.

• Building Works: If you've undertaken construction, specify the nature of the work, whether it required planning permission, and if it met building regulations. Documentation for any guarantees, such as damp proofing, should be available.

• Property Safety: Ensure you have certificates for electrical and heating installations. Information on boiler installation and maintenance, chimney sweeps, and any relevant certificates should be gathered.
  

By meticulously preparing your property for sale and providing your agent with comprehensive information, you significantly enhance the chances of a successful and efficient transaction.

Written by Veera Josey, 12th February 2024