Top Tips from Kerr and Co - if you want to move in 2022
#1 Get organised !
Ask around for a good solicitor, mortgage consultant and look for a reputable estate agent. Ask family, friends and neighbours if they have any recommendations. Look at reviews and who have sold in your area. Take time to speak with them and ask at least 3 estate agents in to value your home. Ask important questions such as; what comparable properties have they sold in the three months prior to the valuation, how long have they worked in the area and what experience do they have in resolving issues which may crop up e.g. survey results, long chains, completion dates, price fluctuations and issues with leases or freeholds. With nearly 30 years of experience of selling houses in W6 and W12 we know how stressful it can be if a sale is not handled correctly.
#2 Get to know your chosen Agent !
Once you have had your property valued, the price may vary between agents. It's important that your home is valued correctly, not overpriced which often ends up in missed opportunities - resulting in weeks and months passing without any interest. Your agent is employed by you to maximize your assets value and to get the best possible result from the strongest buyer all within a timescale to suit.
#3 List the main area or roads you would like to move to !
Your next decision is just as important, where do you want to move to ? Is it realistic and in your budget ? Narrow down the area you want to move to either specific roads or postcodes this will concentrate your search. Set out a list of wants, needs and desires. Wants are definitive, needs are hugely important and desires a luxury that if are realised then absolutely fantastic. Knowing what you don't want is much easier and will focus your mind on what you do want.
#4 Declutter and spring clean !
Moving home is a big decision - don't under estimate what's involved and remember presentation is key! Try and keep a book or record of what you need to do . Start by getting names of recommended trades men and professionals who are going to make this process as easy as possible. From fixing leaking taps , small repairs , cleaning windows, small painting jobs, spring cleaning the house and tidying the garden. You want to Wow your buyers by presenting your home in the best possible light.
#5 Don't lose heart !
Moving home may take longer than you anticipated. Being as flexible as you can will help the process and put you in a better position especially if there is a chain involved. 2022 shows signs of being a strong sellers' market so finding your next home will take time. Especially now with many still working from home the flexibility of viewing is still not as we would hope which has made the sales process slower than usual but it is improving. Be patient you will get there - it may just take longer, given that the last 2 years has seen a massive shift in our work life balance.
#6 Finally .....
The property market is still adjusting. As the restrictions ease and we learn to live with Covid, we hope the work - life balance will continue to improve as we get back to some normality . Your property professionals are there to save you time and energy its important to have a good working relationship with your estate agent, they will keep you on track and focused to find your next happy home.
