How to sell your home in Cornwall

How to sell your home in Cornwall.

A ten-step guide on how to successfully choose an estate agent and the process involved in selling your home.

What makes a good estate agent? 

Knowing the qualities that make for a good estate agent will help you choose the right one to sell your home. Industry research reveals that honesty, integrity and trustworthiness top the list. Testimonials are a great place to go for recommendations from previous sellers. These will give reassurance that these essential qualities are being met.

Next comes a personable manner. The ability to make clients feel comfortable makes for an excellent relationship. A hard working estate agent is also imperative. Clients want to know that they are getting value for money when it comes to their house sale.

And finally, a smile goes a long way! Selling your home can be a stressful time and so a friendly face can make all the difference.

How does Philip Martin honour these qualities?

Philip Martin is a Cornish estate agency based on solid foundations with team work as a core value. Each agent helps to achieve a  smooth sale in the best possible timeframe, going above and beyond to make a sale.

As a local, small business who cares and values their clients, Philip Martin is all about people. You can expect to deal with real people in real time. With expertise spanning generations, Philip Martin is very well-respected. Their prestigious property portfolio attracts buyers and sellers from across Cornwall.

Philip Martin is able to recommend financial advisors, mortgage brokers, solicitors and tradesmen. They love to be able to recommend local, honest people who can help assist in your move.

What are the costs involved in selling a house?

The costs involved vary depending on the location, size and marketing option. At Philip Martin it is usually a fixed percentage of the sale price agreeable by all parties.  There are no upfront fees or extra charges for accompanied viewings or photography. With Philip Martin there is no fee to pay until after the sale has gone to exchange of contracts.

How does the selling process start?

It begins with the seller instructing the agent. Once this has happened, the agent will get to work creating the 'particulars' for the property. This is a set of in-depth details describing your home in its best light. The agent will take photographs of your property and create a floor plan. They will also create an EPC, which is an energy efficiency rating, and is a legal requirement for selling.

How does an estate agent market a property?

An effective marketing strategy will ensure your house reaches the right audience. A good estate agent will list your home on their website, as well as all major external selling sites. Look for one that will also feature your home on their social media accounts. Philip Martin's Facebook, Instagram and TikTok accounts can get over 75,000 views! Mailing lists, magazine advertising and window displays also help to promote your property.

How do I get my home ready to sell?

It's not necessary to completely redecorate your home as a buyer will likely come in and put their own stamp on it. Having a clean and tidy home is best. Allow for as much natural light as possible in rooms as it helps show your home in the best way. Kerb appeal is also key as buyers may well conduct a 'drive-by' inspection. Tidy the front of your house, hide the bins, keep any paths clean and lawns mowed.

Who conducts the viewings?

Your estate agent should conduct all viewings. This is imperative to finding the best buyer and giving the best service. Their training will mean they know what to look out for and gives them the ability to pick up on things that you may not. Their experience allows them to read situations and get a feel for the prospective buyer. When you are paying an estate agent, the viewing side is a crucial part of the service on offer.

What is the offer process?

Buyers will often make an offer over the phone and any of the team at Philip Martin can assist with these calls. The estate agent is  obliged to forward all offers by law. In some circumstances, estate agents may ask for an offer in writing, usually via email.

How is a chain managed?

Managing the chain is almost always the biggest part of the journey to moving house. It is imperative that communication is upheld at all times. Knowing at what point of the sale you are in means that everybody involved feels comfortable. With this in mind, your estate agent should keep in constant contact. Knowing they are there, working on your behalf is so important.

What is an exchange of contracts?

Exchange is when the buyer pays a deposit and the contract becomes binding in law. Completion happens when the balance of payment goes to the seller's solicitor. This is the point when ownership transfers to the buyer.

Philip Martin has a wide range of prestigious properties across Cornwall and offers a free, instant online valuation. For a full market appraisal please get in touch.