2 Sterling Street
Sunderland, SR4 7DS
9 am to 6 pm
Monday to Friday
2 Sterling Street
Sunderland, SR4 7DS
9 am to 6 pm
Monday to Friday

Frequently Asked Questions

Property Purchase FAQs

When purchasing a property, costs go beyond the asking price. Buyers should budget for Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) (if applicable), solicitor and conveyancing fees, mortgage arrangement fees, property surveys, valuation fees, removal costs, and potential renovation expenses. If buying a leasehold property, you should also check service charges and ground rent.

The average time to complete a property purchase in the UK is 12–16 weeks, but this can vary depending on factors like mortgage approval, conveyancing delays, property chain complexity, and local authority searches. Cash buyers can sometimes complete within 4–6 weeks if there are no major complications.

Yes, non-UK residents can buy property in the UK, but mortgage options may be more limited. Some UK banks offer mortgages to international buyers, though they often require a larger deposit (typically 25–40%). Additional legal and tax considerations, such as Non-Resident Capital Gains Tax (NRCGT), may apply when selling.

Property Sales FAQs

To speed up your sale:

  • Price it competitively based on recent local sales.
  • Prepare all documents (title deeds, warranties, leasehold information, etc.) in advance.
  • Fix minor issues to improve first impressions.
  • Use an experienced agent to market your property effectively.
  • Choose a proactive solicitor who can process legal work efficiently.

If your buyer withdraws before contracts are exchanged, you won’t be able to claim compensation unless a non-refundable deposit agreement was in place. You can relist the property, consider approaching other interested buyers, or review your pricing and marketing strategy to attract new offers quickly.

Property Listing FAQs

When listing a property, UK law requires sellers to provide:

  • An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
  • A Property Information Form (TA6) detailing boundaries, disputes, utilities, and alterations
  • A Fittings and Contents Form (TA10)** specifying what is included in the sale
  • Leasehold or Freehold Information, if applicable
    Failing to disclose key details could lead to legal issues or delays later in the process.

Properties listed on Rightmove, Zoopla, and OnTheMarket receive wider exposure, leading to faster sales. However, high competition means pricing and presentation are crucial. Listings with professional photos, virtual tours, and clear descriptions tend to attract higher offers and sell faster than those with poor-quality images and limited details.

Real Estate Agent Management FAQs

If your agent is not meeting expectations, check your contract for notice periods and termination clauses. You can:

  • Raise concerns formally and request action.
  • Ask for a different agent within the agency.
  • Terminate the contract if permitted, though fees may apply if they introduced your buyer.
  • Switch to a multi-agency agreement if exclusive terms allow.

 

Estate agents in the UK must comply with The Property Ombudsman (TPO) Code of Practice, so you can escalate complaints if needed.

If your buyer withdraws before contracts are exchanged, you won’t be able to claim compensation unless a non-refundable deposit agreement was in place. You can relist the property, consider approaching other interested buyers, or review your pricing and marketing strategy to attract new offers quickly.

Yes, estate agent fees are not fixed and can often be negotiated. Typical fees range from 1% to 3% (plus VAT) of the final sale price. Sellers can negotiate:

  • A lower commission for sole agency agreements.
  • A fixed fee rather than a percentage-based fee.
  • A “no sale, no fee” structure to avoid upfront costs.

Always clarify what the fee covers, such as professional photography, online listings, and property viewings.

To ensure your agent maximises your property’s sale price:

  • Discuss a pricing strategy – don’t just accept the highest valuation if it’s unrealistic.
  • Monitor marketing efforts – check how your property is listed online and request changes if necessary.
  • Track buyer interest – ask for regular feedback from viewings.
  • Negotiate with confidence – ensure your agent pushes for strong offers rather than quick sales.

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