Here's everything you need to know about selling your property at auction, including if it's a smart option and how the process works.

1. Locate an Auction House

The first stage to selling your home at auction is to find a reliable auction house.

When exploring online, you'll most likely come across two types of auctions: online and in-person auction houses.

They both provide the same service; one is just delivered virtually while the other is in person.

When searching for an auction house, always check (and compare) factors like company reviews, marketing techniques and costs related with the sale.

2. Provide Your Details

Prepare to answer questions like:

• Is the property already on the market?
• Is there a mortgage?
• What is the ownership status?
• The property’s condition
• Any legal challenges you may be aware of
• The estimated value
• How promptly do you need the transaction to go through

3. Get Your Estimate

 We can give you an estimated figure of how much your property could possibly sell for.

4. Sign the Contracts

If you’re pleased with the auction house and the service they give, it’s time to get ready.

You’ll be asked to sign the paperwork agreeing to the terms and conditions of the sale, including things like what the guide and reserve price will be.

5. Instruct Your Solicitor

You’ll need to instruct your solicitor before you put the property on the market with an auction.

This is because the turnaround time for an auction sale is typically very fast, so potential buyers need to check the legal pack before they bid.

6. Auction Takes Place

The auction will be held, and your home will be sold in the process.

The property could be taken off your hands in less than a month, depending on the amount of time your auction house gives the buyers.

Selling Up?

If you’re not sure whether selling your home at auction is a good idea, we’d love to chat!

We are your local property experts in the area and we can help talk through your selling options.

People become residential landlords for a variety of reasons. 

Often, it’s because someone wants to do more with their savings and sees property as a safe investment with a regular income.  

Here are a few things to consider when becoming a landlord if you want to take advantage of the current lettings climate:

1. Furnished or unfurnished

You must decide whether you want to rent out a completely furnished or unfurnished property early on. 

If you've inherited a furnished property, the decision may be straightforward. If this is the case, you may find that this appeals to a potential tenant, and you may be able to negotiate a better monthly rent. 

If you rent out a property that isn't furnished, you won't have to buy anything for it. Some potential tenants prefer this since they can furnish it with their own belongings and make it their own home. 

Don't forget, carrying out an inventory is a smart idea because it will impact your insurance coverage and may help to avoid disagreements at the end of a contract. 

2. Paperwork 

Being properly organised and up to date with paperwork from the beginning is one of the best suggestions for becoming a landlord. 

Having a lot of paperwork can be intimidating, but organisation is crucial. 

Not only will this ensure that you are not in violation of any legal obligations, but it will also ensure that you are aware of where everything is at all times. (It's also helpful when doing your accounts or double-checking information.) 

3. DIY or use a lettings agency 

Using a lettings service to find a tenant and set up the first agreements will relieve you of some stress. 

Our lettings experts use their local rental market knowledge to assist our valued landlords in managing their properties. For further information, contact our helpful staff today. 

4. Legals & Responsibility 

You'll need an up-to-date Energy Performance Certificate for a property before it can be let. 

Each gas appliance in the property must have a gas safety certificate, and each property must have smoke alarms and a carbon monoxide detector. Any appliances or furniture must also meet the required safety standards.    

There are other regulations concerning a tenant's deposit and how it is held in a government-approved programme. We can help you with any of these if you need support. 

For expert property advice and becoming a landlord, contact our team of professionals below. 

As spring approaches, you may be ready for a deep clean. So, how can you prepare your home for the longer days and milder nights?  

Here’s a simple checklist to get you started. 

Extract your vases 

Fresh flowers are such a treat, and now is an excellent time to bring them back into your house.  

Give your vases a thorough clean and replace any that seem worn. 

Store away your winter footwear 

Clean your winter shoes, then pack the toes gently with newspaper to keep them in shape.  

Don't discard shoe boxes after purchase; they make wonderful storage containers.  

Stack your winter shoes and boots in the back or top of your closet and bring your summer shoes and boots forward. 

Clean doors and windows 

You will want to make the most of the spring light, so be sure to clean your windows to create an airier feel in your home. 

Cleaning your door frames is also a simple way to brighten up your home’s interior.  

Get your garden ready 

As we head further into spring, it might be time to bring out the garden furniture.  

Tidy away any plants which have caught the winter frost.  

Clear any remaining winter debris – including build-up in the gutters – and tackle any essential repairs before you get distracted by weeding and mowing the lawn.  

Keeping your home in tip-top condition is also a good idea if you intend to sell soon.  

Not only will it be ready for a professional photoshoot, but you’ll also make a great first impression on your viewers too.  

Are you ready for a fresh start? Just give us a call on today for expert advice about prepping your home for its market debut.