Selling your first property is a major milestone, and it’s natural to have questions. Whether you’re moving up the property ladder, relocating for work, or making a lifestyle change, understanding the selling process will help you feel confident every step of the way.
We’ve put together this comprehensive guide answering the questions we hear most often from first-time sellers like you.
How Long Will My Property Take to Sell?
One of the first questions on every seller’s mind is: “When will I actually have the money in my account?”
From Listing to Offer: 4 Weeks or Less
If you’ve chosen an agent who provides honest valuation advice (not just telling you what you want to hear) and offers professional marketing to a wide database of active buyers, you should receive competitive offers within a month.
Here’s some good news: right now, there are more buyers looking for properties than there are homes available. This seller’s market works in your favour.
From Offer to Keys: 8-10 Weeks (or Longer)
Once you’ve accepted an offer, your solicitor handles the legal work needed to transfer ownership. This is called conveyancing, and it’s worth knowing that it’s taking longer than it used to.
Since Covid-19, the average conveyancing timeline has extended. We work with solicitors who consistently achieve completions in 8-10 weeks, and we’re happy to recommend them based on their proven track record.
However, some sales can take significantly longer. The longer your sale drags on, the higher the risk of it falling through—which is why choosing an efficient, communicative solicitor is crucial.
What Will I Pay My Estate Agent?
Estate agent fees aren’t fixed, and most agents will negotiate with you to reach a fair agreement.
Why You Shouldn’t Just Pick the Cheapest
As a first-time seller, it’s tempting to save money wherever possible. But here’s something important to understand: the cheapest estate agents are often the most expensive in the long run.
Low-fee agents may not invest in quality photography, premium advertising, or dedicated viewings. They might not have the negotiation skills to push buyers higher. The difference between a mediocre agent and a great one could be £5,000, £10,000, or more on your final sale price—far exceeding any commission savings.
Think of your estate agent as an investment in achieving the best possible outcome, not just a cost to minimise.
What Paperwork Do I Need to Sell?
Getting your documents in order early is one of the smartest things you can do as a first-time seller. It prevents stressful delays when you’re trying to exchange contracts.
Essential Documents
Proof of Identity You’ll need valid ID such as a passport or driving licence.
Property Ownership Documents Your title deeds prove you own the property. These days, they’re almost always electronic, so don’t worry if you’ve never seen a physical document.
For Leasehold Properties If you own a flat or leasehold house, you’ll need:
- A copy of your lease
- A management pack from your freeholder or management company
First-time seller tip: Request your management pack the moment you decide to sell. These can take weeks to obtain, and missing management packs delay entire property chains. Don’t let yours be the one holding everything up.
Forms Your Solicitor Will Provide
Property Information Form (TA6) This asks detailed questions about your property: disputes with neighbours, building work, guarantees, and more. Fill it out carefully and honestly.
Fittings and Contents Form (TA10) This specifies what stays with the property (curtains, light fittings, appliances) and what you’re taking with you.
Our advice: Complete both forms as soon as you receive them. If any questions require research (like finding a guarantee for your boiler), you’ll have plenty of time without causing delays later.
Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
You legally need an EPC before you can market your property. An energy assessor will visit your home, and your certificate is then uploaded to epcregister.com. It’s valid for 10 years, so you might already have one from when you bought.
Other Possible Documents
Depending on your property, you might need:
- New Build Warranty (if your property is less than 10 years old)
- Building Regulations Certificates (for any extensions, conversions, or major work)
- Indemnity Insurance (often needed for something called chancel repair liability—usually costs around £10)
Don’t worry if this sounds overwhelming. Your solicitor will guide you through exactly what’s needed for your specific situation.
Choosing Your Estate Agent: The Questions First-Time Sellers Should Ask
You’ve never done this before, so how do you know which agent to trust?
Beyond asking about fees and timelines, here are three essential questions:
1. “How can I trust your valuation?”
Any agent can pluck a figure out of thin air. A professional will show you evidence: recent sales of similar properties in your area, current market conditions, and an honest assessment of your property’s strengths and weaknesses.
Be wary of agents who value your property significantly higher than others. They might just be trying to win your business with an unrealistic price—which will leave your property sitting unsold for months.
2. “Are there any circumstances where I pay a fee if you don’t sell my property?”
Most estate agents work on a “no sale, no fee” basis, but it’s worth clarifying. Some contracts have tie-in periods or fees if you switch agents. Read the small print before signing anything.
3. “Why should I choose you over other agents?”
This reveals what genuinely sets them apart. Listen for specifics: their local knowledge, their marketing strategy, how they communicate with buyers, their negotiation approach, and most importantly—their recent success stories.
Your Next Steps
Selling your first property is a significant achievement, and you deserve an agent who will guide you through the process with expertise and care.
The key to a successful sale is simple: realistic pricing, professional marketing, and choosing the right team of professionals to support you.
Ready to get started?
We specialise in helping first-time sellers navigate every stage of the selling process. From your initial valuation through to completion day, we’re here to answer your questions and ensure you achieve the best possible outcome.
Contact us today for a no-obligation valuation and friendly advice tailored to your situation.
Thinking about selling? Our experienced team is here to make your first sale as smooth and successful as possible. Get in touch to start your journey.