If you are thinking about buying or selling your home but aren’t sure where to start, we share a few answers to some commonly asked questions on this page:
Is now a good time to be putting my house on the market?
Quite simply, yes. Prices in East Lothian have been recently driven to an all-time high and this trend continues.
There is a lack of stock on the market and we have a database of motivated buyers. Most, if not all properties are achieving in excess of their Home Report value. Working closely with our East Lothian conveyancing team we often advise our clients on the tactics of how best to secure their next home.
I am worried I’ll end up with nowhere to move to, as it’s all so competitive. What’s your advice?
You are right, there is a stock shortage in East Lothian, but properties can and do come up.
In a strong market it is advisable to be in the best position possible. By that we mean being either a cash buyer or at least under offer with a settlement date agreed. It puts you in a much more attractive position to sellers who may opt for your offer especially at a competitive closing date. You may not have submitted the highest offer but it gives sellers certainty allowing them to move with confidence. Remember if you have yet to find your next property, we can negotiate a mutually acceptable future entry date to meet your needs.
Do I need to redecorate/upgrade before getting a valuation?
Not necessarily. We can advise if there are things you can do to maximise the presentation of your property.
The market is so strong that buyers have learned to look beyond tired kitchens or bathrooms and will still pay strong prices. More often than not people want to put their own stamp on their new home anyway. The key is to clear clutter and give each room an identity. Even if you do your ironing in the dining room, set it up as a dining room!
What steps do I take to put my house on the market?
The first step is to call the office and one of our team will discuss your circumstances and requirements with you.
We would then arrange to visit your home, give you an honest opinion on a realistic selling price, advise on anything that will broaden the kerbside appeal and ultimate selling price. We will then follow up with a full marketing report and fee quote. There is no cost to you to get to this stage.
If you do decide to go to market we would obtain the necessary paperwork, organise for a surveyor to compile the Home Report, and a creative agency to visit to prepare the sales particulars.
What happens once my property is ‘on the market’?
Once on the market, we offer a seven day service to capture all enquiries and coordinate viewings.
We call all viewers for feedback, negotiate on any offer and advise you if and when a closing date should be set. After that one of our conveyancing solicitors can act on your behalf to see the sale through to settlement.
I want to sell but it’s stressful. How will you help me?
We recognise selling your home is stressful but it doesn’t have to be.
We will work with you to ensure the journey goes smoothly. We always vet our viewers to ensure their circumstances will fit your price point and timescales. We coordinate viewings to your schedule. Normally clients show buyers around the property but if you can’t or don’t want to, we can arrange for a viewing agent to show the house for you.
I don’t like the thought of everyone knowing my business. Can I sell without advertising?
If you are very concerned about your privacy, we can offer an off-market approach.
This is where we select buyers from our database. It might take a little longer than the traditional route, and the fees will be higher, but it might suit your circumstances. For more information on our off-market offering please click here
“At a closing date, how much do I need to pay over the Home Report value?”
It all depends on how desirable the property is.
You also need to assess the competition. Our experienced team can discuss and agree on the best tactics to give you the best possible chance of securing your next home.
Remember you don’t have to wait for a closing date to be set. You can offer at any point up until one is set.
“How can I work out my budget?”
We can put you in touch with an independent mortgage advisor with access to many providers to help clarify your financial position. Then you will know your buying power and other costs associated with purchasing.
If you have any other questions about buying or selling a property, or would like to know more about any of the information provided on this page, get in touch with our Estate Agency team either by email:propertysales@gilsongray.co.uk or call one of our offices:
Edinburgh: 0131 516 53 54
North Berwick: 01620 893 481
Dundee: 01382 549 321