What obligations can you insist upon in a property sale?

If you’re in the business of selling something, once the deal is done, that item pretty much becomes the new owner’s to do with as they wish. Even if it’s a cherished jacket or a watch that you’ve held onto for years, you can’t dictate what the new owner does with it after the sale is complete and you’ve let it go.

That being said, there are times when things can get a bit more complicated. Just because you’ve sold something doesn’t mean you can insist that the buyer keeps your wall colours or forbid them from making renovations. However, in certain situations, you may be able to set some terms that they should follow or at least consider as a polite request.

So, where do we draw the line? Let’s have a look at three examples that might help clarify things. Here’s some advice to ponder:

Restrictive covenants

Restrictive covenants are legal agreements that get attached to your property’s title deeds and they stick around indefinitely. So, when you sell your house, these rules automatically pass on to the new owner – whether they’re on board or not. You may need to go through a legal process to get these in place, but once you do, they become part of the deed. For example, it could mean keeping certain architectural features intact; like preserving a distinctive vernacular roof that’s maintained by roof thatchers every decade, maintaining gardens in specific ways or even having guidelines on what colours you’re allowed to paint your house.

While they may seem a bit controlling, they’re usually there for good reasons, like preserving the character of a historic neighbourhood or protecting everyone’s property values.

Recommendations & friendly advice

When it comes to passing on your home to the new owners, sharing some friendly advice can go a long way. Think about the little quirks or maintenance tips you learned along the way – like which plumber has experience in how to handle that old heating system or the trick to opening the back gate without a struggle. Framing this advice as helpful suggestions rather than demands makes it more likely to be appreciated. After all, who wouldn’t want a heads-up that could save them time and money? Since they’ve already invested in the property, it’s a win-win to mention those minor issues.

Local listed building obligations

Now, if your home is a listed building, there are some legal obligations that come with it. These responsibilities automatically transfer to the new owners, no matter what anyone thinks. The protections in place are meant to preserve historically significant buildings for future generations, and they take precedence over the new owners’ preferences. So, they’ll inherit the same duties you had in maintaining the building’s historic importance and charm. If you’ve been diligent about getting the right permissions for any changes and using suitable materials for repairs, they’ll need to follow suit. This information should definitely be shared before you finalise the sale.

Out of a sense of responsibility, it’s a good idea to ensure potential buyers fully understand what they’re getting into. Some folks may buy a listed building without realising the restrictions and costs that come with it. While you’re not obligated to do this, most people who care about the property will want to help the new owners succeed.

With this advice in hand, we hope you can seamlessly incorporate these obligations into your property sale, and do it in the right way.

[disclosure*]

Putting your home on the market? Transform your property into a buyer’s dream before the viewings begin

You’ve decided to take the plunge and sell your home. Exciting times ahead! However, before you even think about the “For Sale” sign outside your front door, there’s crucial groundwork to lay. Preparing your home for prospective buyers is essential for attracting the right offers and, ultimately, selling your property quickly and at the best possible price. Think of it as putting your best foot forward – you want your house to make a stellar first impression.

This isn’t just about cleaning and tidying up (though that’s definitely on the list!). It’s also about showcasing your home’s potential and allowing buyers to imagine themselves living there. Here’s a comprehensive checklist to successfully putting your home on the market:

1. Declutter & depersonalise: The foundation of staging

This is perhaps the most important step. Buyers need to see the house, not your belongings. Here’s what to focus on:

Declutter:
- Go room by room and ruthlessly eliminate anything you don’t need or use. Be honest with yourself!
- Pack away seasonal items, excess furniture, and anything that clutters surfaces.
- Consider renting a storage unit to keep these items out of sight.
- Don’t forget the garage and attic!
Depersonalise:
- Remove personal photos, trophies and collections. While these reflect your life, they can distract buyers from seeing themselves in the home.
- Neutralise the décor. Paint over bold colours with neutral tones like beige, grey or often maligned, magnolia.
- Replace overly personalised artwork with universally appealing pieces.

2. Deep clean: Shine & sparkle!

A clean home signals that it’s well-maintained. Here’s where to concentrate your efforts:

Throughout the house:
- Dust everything meticulously, from ceiling fans to skirting boards.
- Wash windows and mirrors inside and out.
- Vacuum or mop all floors.
- Clean carpets and rugs professionally.
- Pay special attention to kitchens and bathrooms.
Kitchen:
- Clean appliances inside and out.
- Scrub worktops and splash-backs.
- Organise cabinets and pantry (buyers will peek!).
Bathrooms:
- Scrub toilets, showers and baths.
- Clean grout.
- Replace shower curtains.
- Remove personal toiletries.

3. Carry out necessary repairs: Address the obvious

Small repairs can make a big difference. Addressing them upfront demonstrates that you care for your home and can prevent potential deal-breakers.

Here’s a list of common repairs to consider:
- Fix leaky taps and running toilets.
- Repair cracks in walls or ceilings.
- Replace broken light fixtures.
- Fix sticking doors and windows.
- Repair or replace damaged flooring.
- Address any visible signs of mould or water damage.
- Touch up paint where needed.

4. Enhance curb appeal: First impressions really matter!

The exterior of your home is the first thing that potential buyers see. Make sure it makes a positive impression by giving it some curb appeal.

Focus on these areas:
- Mow the lawn and trim hedges.
- Plant flowers and add a touch of colour to the landscape.
- Clean gutters and downpipes.
- Power wash the exterior of the house and driveway.
- Repaint or stain the front door.
- Make sure the porch light is working.
- Repair or replace any damaged siding or roofing.

5. Consider staging: Take it to the next level

If you want to really maximise your home’s appeal, consider professional staging. A stager can help you arrange furniture, add accessories, and create a welcoming atmosphere that highlights your home’s best features. This can be especially helpful for vacant properties.

6. Provide high-quality photos: Showcase online appeal

In today’s market, most buyers start their search online. High-quality photos are crucial for attracting their attention. As part of their service, most estate agents visit a property and take their own but, if you want your home to stand out from the rest, consider providing your own.

Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Hire a professional photographer if possible.
- Make sure the house is clean and staged before the photoshoot.
- Take photos during the day with plenty of natural light.
- Capture the best angles of each room.
- Include photos of the exterior, garden and any special features.

By following these steps, you’ll be well-prepared to put your home on the market and attract serious buyers. Remember, a well-prepared home can sell faster and for a better price. Good luck!

Unlocking a swift sale: Your guide to staging your home for success

Selling your home is a big undertaking, and you want it to move quickly and for the best possible price. One of the most impactful things you can do to achieve this is to stage your home effectively. Staging isn’t just about making things look pretty; it’s about presenting your property in a way that allows potential buyers to envision themselves living there. Think of it as a crucial first impression, and with the right approach, you can significantly boost your chances of a fast and successful sale.

So, how do you go about transforming your space from ‘lived in’ to ‘move-in ready’? Let’s break down the key steps to staging your home.

Declutter and depersonalise: The foundation for success

First and foremost, take a hard look at your belongings. The goal isn’t to erase your personality entirely, but rather to create a neutral canvas that appeals to a wide range of tastes. This means:

Purge ruthlessly: Pack up anything you don’t use regularly, especially personal items like family photos, collections and excessive knick-knacks. Consider renting a storage unit if space is tight.
Organise and streamline: Clearing surfaces like worktops and tabletops will make a space feel larger and more inviting. Think minimal, clean and functional.
Wardrobe overhaul: Some property viewers will peek inside your built-in wardrobes. Overly full cupboards suggest a lack of storage, even if it isn’t really an issue. Store out-of-season clothing and organise what remains.

Focus on key rooms: Where buyers pay attention

While it’s important to address the entire home, certain areas demand special attention:

The living room: This is often the heart of the home. Arrange furniture to encourage conversation and create a clear flow. Consider a focal point, like a fireplace or large window. Don’t overcrowd the space with too much furniture.
The kitchen: A clean and updated kitchen is a huge selling point. Clear counters, invest in some new, stylish accessories and give appliances a good scrub. A bowl of fresh fruit can add a touch of homey charm.
Bathrooms: These should feel spa-like. Replace old towels, add fresh soap and put away personal care items. Make sure all fixtures are sparkling clean.
The master bedroom: Create a serene and relaxing atmosphere. Neutral colours, minimal accessories and high-quality bedding can make a big difference.

Light and bright: The magic ingredient

Good lighting can transform the feeling of any space. Make the most of natural light:

Clean windows: Dirty windows diminish light. Give them a thorough washing, inside and out.
Open blinds and curtains: Maximise natural light during showings.
Add layers of lighting: Supplement natural light with lamps and overhead fixtures to create a warm and inviting glow.

The final touches: Don’t overlook the details

Little details can make a big difference:

Curb appeal: Don’t forget the exterior! A well-maintained lawn, clean entryway and fresh landscaping can make a great first impression.
Fresh paint: A fresh coat of paint in neutral colours can instantly brighten and update a space.
Neutral palette: Stick to a neutral palette for walls and large furniture pieces. This allows potential buyers to envision their own belongings in the space.
Cleanliness is key: Your home should be absolutely spotless for showings.

Staging doesn’t have to be an intimidating or expensive process. By focusing on these key areas and paying attention to detail, you can create a home that’s both appealing and welcoming, ready to attract serious buyers and secure a quick sale.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Do I need to hire a professional stager?

A: Not necessarily. While professional stagers can offer expertise and resources, you can achieve great results by following these tips and putting in some effort yourself. However, if you feel overwhelmed or are dealing with a high-end property, professional staging could be a worthwhile investment.

Q: How much should I spend on staging?

A: There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Focus on areas that will make the biggest impact. Fresh paint, decluttering and proper cleaning can make a big difference with minimal cost. Set a budget and prioritise areas that need the most attention.

Q: Should I stage even if I’m living in the home?

A: Absolutely! Staging while living in your home can be a challenge, but it’s crucial. Maintain the staged appearance during showings, which may mean adjusting your day-to-day habits a bit.

Q: How long will it take to stage my home?

A: This depends on the size of your home and how much decluttering and cleaning is required. Allow yourself enough time to do a thorough job. Don’t rush the process.

Q: What if my home is already well-maintained?

A: Even well-maintained homes can benefit from staging. It’s about presenting your home in its best light, creating a sense of spaciousness and appealing to a wide range of buyers. It’s not about disguising flaws, but rather enhancing existing strengths.

By implementing these staging strategies, you’re investing in the fastest and most profitable sale possible. Happy selling!

5 ways to sell your home fast

You may be thinking about selling your home; either you’re moving out of the area or you’ve outgrown your current house. Whatever the reason, there are plenty of things you need to do before listing your home for sale. If this is your first time selling a property, then have a look at the list below to find some top tips on the things you need to do if you want to sell your property as quickly as possible.

Declutter

One thing you must do if you want to sell your home for a great price and as quickly as possible is to declutter. Decluttering can take some time, especially if you have a lot of stuff. It may be worth hiring a skip so you avoid endless amounts of trips to the local tip.

If once you’ve decluttered you have items you want to keep but won’t use until your home is sold, then why not hire a self storage lock-up.

Deep clean

Once you’ve decluttered, then it is time to clean your home. You wouldn’t want to buy a messy home, so you mustn’t expect others to buy your home if it’s untidy. Deep cleaning won’t take long if you have looked after your home while living there. Don’t view it as one huge job, instead take it one room at a time. If you don’t have the time or energy to clean your home, then you could always hire a cleaning company to help you out.

Use the right estate agent

Once you’ve done everything within your home, it’s time to find an estate agent to list your property. You can, of course, sell your home privately, but that means handling everything yourself. Using an agent will take a lot of the pressure off you, it will just cost you a small percentage of your home sale price. If you speak to others, they’d highly recommend using an agent. Find the one you want to use and be sure to check reviews.

Repairs

Before you sell your home, you’ll need to carry out any repairs on your home. If you have a long to-do list, then now is the time to start working your way through that. The issue you could run into is smaller repairs could turn into bigger ones. The roof is a great example of this, if you notice a leak then you need to rectify this straight away. A leaky roof can lead to subsidence and issues with the foundations of your home.

Update your home

If you’re aiming to sell your home fast and for a great price, then you may need to make updates to your home. Over time, tastes will change, so your kitchen may not be as highly desirable now as it was five years ago. Look at the most recent home updates and go from there. It may be that you need to paint the walls and sort the garden out. Some updates can show off the amount of space your home has to offer, this is something buyers love to see.

Hopefully you’ve found some inspiration in this post, and it has helped you on your journey into selling your home. Remember, if buyers don’t like your home for whatever reason, then it may be worth fixing the issue. You don’t want your home languishing on the market for ages, as this can be off-putting to buyers.