Guide To Buying

Choosing the Best Method of Sale for Your Home.

There are many different methods of sale available when selling your home — private treaty, offers in excess, blind tender, options, to name just a few. With so many choices, it can be confusing to know which approach is right for you and which will help you achieve the best possible price.

If you’ve already had an agent visit your home to provide a valuation, they may have touched on some of these options. However, many clients are surprised when we take the time to explain all the possibilities in detail.

Often, sellers assume the process is straightforward: obtain two or three valuations from different agents, choose a price they’re happy with (plus a little extra), and put the property on the market.

In reality, the method of sale you choose can have a significant impact on the final price achieved. Market conditions, buyer demand, and the type of purchasers active at the time all play a crucial role. Getting this decision right is essential if you want to maximise your return.

What Price Should I Ask to Achieve Maximum Value?.

One of the most common questions sellers ask is: what is my property actually worth, and what price should I put it on the market for to achieve the best possible result?

At some stage, you will almost certainly invite one or more estate agents to value your home. It’s not unusual for sellers to receive a wide range of suggested prices and differing advice on how to approach the sale — which can be confusing.

To gain clarity, it’s worth carrying out some research yourself. Look online at properties similar to yours and note both the asking prices and how long they have been on the market. When doing this, it’s essential to compare like for like: similar property type, size, condition, layout, and room dimensions. Without this, comparisons can be misleading.

If there are no truly comparable properties, take time to consider the differences between your home and those you are comparing it with. Adjust your expectations accordingly when pricing your property in relation to others.

It’s also important to remember that an asking price can reflect the seller’s personal circumstances as much as the property itself. There is also a natural tendency for owners to overestimate the value of their own home. Unfortunately, some less scrupulous agents may reinforce this by suggesting an inflated price simply to secure the instruction, only for the property to sit unsold and require reductions later.

Pricing your home correctly from the outset is crucial. A well-priced property attracts more interest, creates competition, and ultimately gives you the best chance of achieving the maximum value.

What Are Other Properties Doing in Terms of Price?.

Once your home is on the market, pricing doesn’t become a “set and forget” decision. It’s important to keep track of what other properties are doing in terms of price — which ones are selling, going under offer, exchanging, completing, being withdrawn, and which new properties are coming to market.

All of this activity helps position your property accurately in relation to the rest of the market. It provides valuable insight into buyer behaviour and highlights how competitive your asking price really is.

You also need to be aware of broader market trends and what may influence house prices over the coming months. Factors such as interest rates, political decisions, and global events can all affect buyer confidence and demand.

Even in a rising market, it’s possible to lose out by under-selling your own home and then overpaying for your next one. Having up-to-date, accurate market information is essential if you want to maximise the price you achieve and make informed decisions throughout the process.

A good estate agent will assign a senior member of staff as your personal account manager, overseeing your sale from start to finish and keeping you fully informed with regular feedback, market updates, and clear advice at every stage.

Preparing Your Home.

Knowing how to prepare — or stage — your home for viewings is an important part of achieving the best possible price. Presentation plays a huge role in how buyers feel when they walk through the door, so it’s essential to create a welcoming and desirable first impression.

You don’t need to completely redecorate to sell your home, but it may be worth spending a little time — and possibly a small amount of money — refreshing any tired areas. Neutral tones work best, as they help maximise the sense of space and give your home a clean, fresh feel.

Make sure any outstanding repairs are dealt with before viewings begin. Many buyers are reluctant to take on immediate costs after moving in, and even minor issues can raise unnecessary concerns.

Decluttering is equally important. Removing excess furniture, pictures, books, and ornaments will instantly make rooms feel larger and more open. It also helps buyers imagine their own furniture and belongings in the space.

We also recommend putting away large plastic children’s toys and removing personal items such as paperwork or letters from worktops and tables. Clear, clutter-free surfaces create a calmer and more spacious environment.

Don’t forget the exterior. Ensure the outside of your property is tidy and that the garden is well maintained. These areas are often overlooked during the winter months, but buyers will still spend time looking at outdoor spaces, including areas where bins and recycling containers are stored.

Try to keep your home clean and tidy at all times, even if you’re not expecting viewings. Occasionally, we receive enquiries from passers-by who have noticed the For Sale board and would like to view at short notice.

Clean windows regularly and keep curtains and blinds open during the day to maximise natural light. Finally, small finishing touches such as fresh flowers, plants, subtle air fresheners, or lightly scented candles can help create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

The team at Chiddicks Homes are always happy to offer advice, practical assistance, and even visit your home prior to it going onto the market to help you present it at its very best.