Posted on

Should You Trust & Sell To UK Property Cash Buyer 2024

Should you Trust & Sell to UK Property Cash Buyer 2024

Looking at why you may sell your house to a property cash buyer, if you can trust a cash offer, and how we can help you sell…

Alexandra Ventress

Alexandra Ventress ★ Digital Content Writer

Table of Contents

When it comes to selling your house, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed. In the golden age of the internet, it seems as though we have no limit when it comes to researching all the various options for selling your home. Estate agents, auctions houses, and property cash buyers, are all options that you are likely to have come across when researching how to sell your house fast.  

 

Property cash buyers aim to purchase your home fast and usually without fees, in a time frame to suit you regardless of condition or location. But should you trust them? And should you sell to a UK Property cash buyer 2024? 

 

In this blog post, we are going to answer these questions and more, looking into the pros and cons of a cash buyer, whether they will give you a better offer, and if you should sell to them. 

What is a Property Cash Buyer? 

A property cash buyer is a person or company who is able to purchase a property without the need for a loan or mortgage first. In order to be classed as a genuine cash buyer, the buyer must have the cash funds readily available when they make the offer. Sometimes companies will claim to have a cash buyer waiting in the wings to purchase your property, but in reality they are waiting for their sale to go through before they can purchase yours. 

Why do people use a cash house buyer? 

There are many reasons why someone may use a cash house buyer to purchase their property:

 

Pros and Cons of selling through a cash property buyer 

As with any selling decision, there are pros and cons to be had with selling your home to property home buyers. Whilst selling to a cash buyer can provide you with a fast and secure sale, not all companies are what they are cracked up to be.  Below we take a closer look at the advantages and disadvantages of selling your home for cash: 

 

Pros 

The main advantage to selling your home to a fast house sale company is that they are able to buy your home in a quick time scale. If you need to sell quickly, then a cash sale may be the route for you. As there is no need for a loan or mortgage, most cash buyers can purchase your home in a time frame to suit you.

As cash buyers will buy any property, you have assurance that they will purchase your property. They are not typically put off by the condition or the location. They are also undeterred by any issues the property may have, such as fire and smoke damage, subsidence, lease issues and other problems. 

As there is no property chain involved in a cash sale, there is less chance of the sale falling through and takes away a lot of the hurdle that you would associate with a typical house sale. 

Selling through a sell house fast company is often more secure than an open property market sale. This is because cash buyers will purchase any property and have the cash funds readily available to do so, so the sales are less likely to fall through. 

As a genuine cash buyer is able to purchase your home without the need for a loan or mortgage, they do not need to wait for another sale to go through before they can purchase your home. This takes away the property chain aspect that you find with most sales. 

Cons:

Part and parcel of dealing with a fast property sale company is that you will have to sell your house below market value.  Exactly how much below value your cash offer will be, will depend on a variety of factors, such as the condition of the property, and the company that you sell with. However, many people will look at this as a fair trade-off in return for a fast and free sale. 

As we have already mentioned, cash buying companies are unregulated, which means that some companies try to take advantage of customers. In order to ensure that this does not happen to you, you should do your due diligence when selling, looking at reviews from a variety of sources, and checking to see if the company is a part of any redress schemes such as the National Association of Property Buyers or The Property Ombudsman, and shopping around for a variety of quotes. 

Should you trust property buyers?

Yes, you can! However, just because you can trust UK property buyers, doesn’t mean that you should trust EVERY property buyer. The business of cash buying property is unregulated, and whilst for most companies this does not prove to be an issue, some use this to their advantage and purposefully trick customers into much lower offers. 

 

If you decide that you wish to sell with a cash buyer, you should always be sure to check that they are part of a redress scheme, such as The Property Ombudsman or the National Association of Property Buyers. Whilst these companies have no regulatory powers, they can help to provide an extra layer of security for buyers. 

 

You should also be careful to check out a variety of reviews for your chosen cash buyer online. Be sure to read the negative as well as the positive. And always remember if something seems too good to be true it often is. 

How do I know if a quick house sale company is dishonest?

Thankfully, whilst there can be many unethical house buying companies, there are telltale signs that you can look out for to ensure that you are being taken advantage of: 

 

  • Before you sign on with any cash house buyer, ensure that there are no cancellation or withdrawal fees.
  • If a cash buyer offers you 100% market value for your property, then it is a scam and they cannot be trusted. 
  • If something seems too good to be true, it often is. 
  • You should look into a property buyers companies house. If they are a genuine cash buyer then they should have a high-profit turnover as they should be purchasing with their own cash funds.
  • If you are selling through a reputable company, then there will be no fees involved in the process. 
  • The company you sell through should not ask you to sign an option, a lock-in contract, or an RX1 form. 
  • You should check to ensure your company is with a redress company of some sort, although if they claim to be with a regulatory board they are lying, as cash house buying is an unregulated company. 
  • You should also look at reviews left for the company. You should be sure to look at a wide range of reviews and keep an eye out for fake reviews. If a company has nothing but 5-star reviews then you need to ask how they can get it right every single time. Whilst the internet is a great tool, it can also be used to push misinformation, so it’s always wise to read around and not take everything at face value. 

What are some tactics that dishonest cash buyers use? 

Some cash buying companies are not above pulling unethical tricks in order to take advantage of those looking for a quick sale. Below are some of the tactics that they use:

 

  • Unreliable online reviews
  • False advertising and incorrect statements 
  • Falsely selling option agreements as a cash offer
  • Reducing their cash offer at the last minute 

What is a buying agent?

A house buying agent is similar to an estate agent except they act with only the buyers interests in mind. The role of a buying agent is to find a property for their client that best suits their requirements. Once the buyer finds a property they like, their buying agent will then negotiate an offer to get the best price for them. 

 

When you are selling a house, you will typically use an estate agent whose sole interest is the seller, so by using a house agent, it can help to balance the scales. 

Why do people use house buying agents

There are many reasons why a buyer may decide to employ a house buying agent. Some of the reasons can include: 

 

Off-market 

By using a buying agent, you are not only gaining access to their knowledge but also to their contacts. Often buying agents will have access to various off-market properties. These are properties that you will not find in an estate agent’s window or advertised on online property portals such as Rightmove or Zoopla. 

 

Furthermore, if a property is going on the market in the coming weeks, a buying agent who is worth their salt will know this in advance. By having an advanced warning about a property’s entry into the market, you may be able to get an edge over the other buyers. 

 

Time-saving 

Buying a house is not always the fastest process in the role, but when you have a buying agent on your side it can help to speed the process up considerably. They will be able to search for properties that meet your specifications, preview the property, and provide you with a shortlist of the properties they think will be most suitable for you. 

 

Negotiation

By using a buying agent, you will be able to make an informed decision on the property’s value. They will be able to provide you with a negotiation strategy and they may be able to secure you a discount on the property. 

Do property buying companies give you a better offer than normal buyers

There are many property buying companies on the market, that will offer you varying degrees of market value, however, they will not be able to give you a better offer than a regular buyer on the open market. If you are looking for a fast sale, then you may be willing to sacrifice the lower offer in return for a much quicker sale time to suit you. However, if you can afford the time to wait, then you may be able to get more for your property than a cash house buying company can offer you. 

Need help selling my house and not sure if you should use a uk property buyer?

A cash buyer can be a great option for selling, they will typically provide a quick and free way to sell your home. However, you will not receive full market value for your home, and there are many companies that may not be as they originally appeared. Thankfully, if you need help selling your home, there are several other options that you can explore. 

 

Besides cash buyers, you may also wish to explore selling your property through an auction or an estate agency. Each of these selling options have pros and cons, which we will look into in more depth below. 

Auction

One such way that you may wish to sell your home is through a property auction. A property auction works by agreeing on a minimum reserve price for your property, and if a buyer meets the reserve price then it sells to them.

 

The best case scenario that you will want from a property auction is multiple interested buyers outbidding each other for your lot, raising your total profit. 

 

They are a popular selling choice as sales rarely fall through due to the tight rules and regulations surrounding the sale. 

 

However, property auctions do bring their own issues with them. One of the biggest problems is that selling data auction is not always the quickest selling route. They involve waiting for the next auction, then marketing, viewings, and valuations can take another month on top of this, and even after the auction is complete you will still have to wait for the paperwork to go through. 

 

Furthermore, they are often preferred by those who have slightly more unusual [properties to sell. Often those who have problem properties or houses with boundary issues or damage sell at auction, so if you are trying to sell the family home, there are often better routes to take. 

 

On top of this, selling at auction is not without cost. Auctioneers will charge fees to cover the cost of marketing and selling your home, which can once again eat away at your final profit. 

Estate agent 

Another option you may wish to explore when selling is going through an estate agent. An estate agent is a great selling option as they will undertake all of the heavy lifting involved in a house sale, in return for a commission at the end of the selling process. 

 

An estate agent will undertake the marketing of your property, create listings, host viewings, and negotiate deals for you so that you don’t have to. 

 

A big advantage of selling through an estate agent is that you won’t need to undertake as much of the legwork for your sale, such as advertising your property, creating floor plans, hosting viewings, and negotiation.  

 

The downside is that many estate agencies charge a fee for undertaking the sale of your house, but this is not always the case. 

 

If you are looking to sell your house fast and for free, without going through property cash buyers, then read on…

Can the property selling company help me sell my house?

If you are looking for a way to sell your home for free and without any hidden costs or fees, then you have come to the right place. 

 

We are The Property Selling Company, an online estate agency who wants to change how you sell houses. Say goodbye to the days of expensive solicitor and selling fees; we cover the costs so you don’t have to. 

 

We pride ourselves on our philosophy that selling a house should be three things; fast, effortless, and free. That’s why we offer a tailored service, where our team of property professionals are by your side for every step of the process. We will advertise your property on Rightmove and Zoopla, organise viewings cover legal fees, and negotiate better deals for free.

 

We are making the challenges of selling your home a thing of the past. Over the years, we have built a seamless process to provide you with an excellent service and sell for free.

So if you are ready to get your home on the market, fill out one of our free no-obligation forms today! 

Posted on

Who Decides Completion of House Sale Time & Date?

completion of house sale

Who Decides Completion of House Sale Time & Date?

Looking at what happens on completion day, whether completion happens on moving day, and what the process involves.

Alexandra Ventress

Alexandra Ventress ★ Digital Content Writer

Table of Contents

The completion process is the final hurdle of the house selling and buying process, so it is important to be well-versed in the process so you can fully prepare for any last-minute surprises that may come your way during the period between exchange and completion. 

 

In this blog post, we will be looking at when the house sale completion time occurs, what happens on the day of completion, and who decides the completion of a house sale.  

 

Looking for a quick answer? Check out our interactive menu to the right! 

Sell your house without all the hassle

What is the completion time for a house sale?

The completion date for house sale is the final stage that occurs in the conveyancing process.  It will typically occur anywhere between 7 and 28 days of exchanging contracts and signifies the end of the property sale and ownership is passed to the new buyer. 

 

During the completion day, the buyer’s conveyancer will be responsible for transferring the final funds to the seller’s solicitor. After the payment has been received, then completion has legally occurred. The buyer will then get the keys to the new house and the seller must move out. 

 

When the day arrives, you may have a target completion time, which is typically anywhere between 11 am to 12 pm, however depending on the chain length it can sometimes take longer. 

What happens on completion day of house sale?

House sale completion day is one of the final stages of the house selling and buying process. It is the day when the seller of the property will receive the rest of the funds from their solicitor, which is usually the deposit and the remaining money from the buyer’s mortgage lender. 

 

At this stage, the buyer will be able to collect the keys from the estate agent and move into their new property. They will also receive a signed transfer copy of the title deeds for the property. 

 

The completion of house sale is also the stage where both parties will be required to pay their final solicitors fees. The seller will also be required to pay any remaining estate agent fees and the buyer will need to ensure they have paid any legal costs and disbursements that may be outstanding. 

 

Stamp duty land tax will then be paid by the buyer’s solicitor on their behalf.

What can I expect on completion day? 

Every completion day is different, however, as a rule of thumb this is what you can expect when the big day rolls around: 

This is the time when the first buyer in the chain, typically a first-time buyer, will complete their purchase transaction

It is now the time when the second buyer, who will have sold their property to the first buyer will complete the purchase transaction

The next buyer to complete their purchase will be the third buyer, who will have sold their property to the second buyer

At 4pm, the final seller in the chain (who only needs to sell) will receive payment from the third buyer and complete the sale transaction. This is where the property transaction will end. 

More often than not, the completion deadline will be set before 5:30 as this is the time when the majority of CHAPS banking systems and solicitors offices close for the day. 

Can you exchange and complete on the same day? 

Yes, it is possible to exchange and complete on the same day, although it can be a risky move! By having the exchange and completion occur on the same day, you may find that either the buyer or seller is not fully organised or prepared to move. 

 

Below are some of the things you may need to look out for if you plan on having exchange of contracts on the same day as completion: 

 

  • If you are a cash buyer, then it is easier to exchange and complete on the same day as there is no transferal from the mortgage lenders
  • You will need to transfer the funds to your solicitor the day before completion in order to ensure there are no transition problems
  • You run the risk of putting yourself in a vulnerable position, as you will have packed up your property and be ready to move, and a seller may ask you for something extra at the last minute. You will not have a lot of room for negotiation so it is best to read carefully. 
  • If you are chain-free, it will be easier to exchange contracts and complete on the same day 
  • The majority of mortgage lenders are fine with the buyer and seller exchanging and completing on the same day, however, you should be wary that others require a minimum period of at least 5 working days between

Can you have exchange and completion on different days? 

By the time that completion takes place, the seller must have either already moved out, or be moving out on the date.  This is the day when the seller’s solicitor receives the purchase funds and transfers ownership. 

 

Should the buyer be without a property to sell, then they will be able to move into the house either on or after the completion day. Should the transaction be a part of a property chain, then the buyer may be at the mercy of the seller’s completion day. 

Can anything go wrong on completion day?

As with anything in life, occasionally things can go wrong. Typically, problems can occur with the transfer of funds. This can happen due to money being passed from your mortgage provider to your solicitors, and then onto the buyer’s solicitors. If there is a delay in the transfer and it does not go through before 3 pm, then you will need to wait until the next working day. 

 

If you are part of a property chain, you may also run into issues. Should part of the chain collapse or become delayed then the whole process can be stopped in its tracks. 

Sell your house without the fees

How do I make completion day less stressful? 

Thankfully, whilst there is always room for error, there are things you can do to help the whole day to progress smoothly. Below we take a look at some of our top tips to help your completion day go as planned:

 

Plan ahead: It’s always good to prepare ahead of time for moving day, so once you know your house completion day, you should start getting all of your ducks in a row. This means arranging your removal company for the day far in advance, packing up your property and confirming timings with your seller. 

 

Regular communication: Communication is key in all aspects of life, but especially when dealing with your solicitor. Making sure your solicitor is able to contact you at all times is a great way to ensure that you complete your house sale as quickly as possible as if a problem arises, they will be able to reach you and resolve it. 

 

Keep everything together: It is always a wise move to ensure that you keep any and all important documents regarding your house sale and move together. This way if they are needed, you know where they are located and will be able to find them with ease, avoiding delays. 

How do Solicitors transfer the mortgage funds? 

On the completion day, the buyer’s solicitor will transfer the money for the purchase to the solicitor of the seller. Usually, this transfer occurs using CHAPS payment, as this form of payment allows you to make a payment that is high value on the same day. 

What if I can't pay? 

If you do not transfer the funds on the contractual completion day, then you will face a fine. However, if the reason that you did not transfer the funds was due to your buyer not transferring, then they will pay a penalty to you. 

Who decides the completion date?

The house move completion day is a date that should be chosen by both the vendor and the buyer in advance of it occurring. However it is worth bearing in mind that i you are buying a new build, then this process will be different. The date of completion will typically occur on a working weekday. This is to ensure that the money transfers through that bank in time. Once you have confirmed completion, you will be able to plan your move. 

How do I get the keys? 

After the seller’s solicitors have received the funds required, they will confirm completion with the buyer and release the keys. These can then be picked up from an estate agent or from the buyer directly. 

Can someone else pick up keys on completion?

Yes, they can! You are allowed to have someone else, such as a legal representative or guardian, pick up the keys. If you are the named buyer of a property but are unable to collect your keys or wish to have someone else do so, you must be sure to instruct your solicitor, as well as the seller and estate agent of your plans. 

Can a buyer pull out on completion day?

Once contracts have been exchanged, it is impossible for the buyer or seller to pull out without serious legal and financial consequences as this is classed as a breach of contract. 

 

If you are the buyer… 

 

Then you are the one who stands to lose the most financially from pulling out. As a result, you will lose the full deposit funds if you pull out after the exchange, and you may still have to pay a percent of the unpaid purchase price. Your seller may also request that you cover their conveyancing costs for the process. 

 

If you are the seller… 

 

Then you will be required to cover your buyer’s costs for the process. This will typically include the solicitor’s fees as well as surveying costs. You may also be asked to pay accrued interest. It is also worth bearing in mind that the buyer also has the right to pursue legal action. 

The Property Selling Company 

Whether you are buying or selling a house, we are here to help.

 

Here at The Property Selling Company, we pride ourselves on your personal philosophy that selling a house should be three things; fast, effortless, and free

 

We have made it our mission to shake up the way that you sell your home, which is why we offer a full online estate agency service but without the fees and hassle.

 

We will work alongside you every step of the house-selling process, covering everything, so you won’t have to. The days of expensive solicitor fees and legal work are over, and our team of property experts will continue to be there even after the process is complete. 

 

We will market your property on popular property portals such as Rightmove and Zoopla, organise viewings, cover legal fees, and negotiate better deals, all for free!

 

So if you are looking to buy or sell a property, get in touch today and fill in one of our free, no-obligation forms! 

Sell your house without all the hassle
Posted on

How to Stop Repossession of House: Sell Home to Avoid Repo

how to stop repossession of house

How to Stop Repossession of House: Sell Home to Avoid Repo

Looking at how to stop house repossession, how the repossession of your home can affect you as the home owner and how the process works.

Alexandra Ventress

Alexandra Ventress ★ Digital Content Writer

Table of Contents

Falling into mortgage arrears and having your property repossessed is a situation that no one wants to find themselves in. It can leave you wondering exactly what your housing options are, how you can amend the situation, and whether or not you can stop house repossession. 


In this blog post, we will be looking at how to stop the repossession of house, what the repossession process involves, and how we can help you sell fast and for free. 

 

Looking for a quick answer? Check out our quick navigation to the left! 

How many missed mortgage payments before repossession UK?

If you miss a mortgage payment, there is no need to sell your home. It does not mean you will lose your home either. The majority of mortgage lenders will not begin the repossession process until you have missed at least three mortgage payments. 

 

This is referred to as being in mortgage arrears. As soon as you miss a mortgage payment, you are technically in mortgage arrears. However, your lender must abide by the pre-action requirements and typically will not repossess your home unless it is a last resort.

 

In order to begin repossession proceedings your lender must first: 

 

  • give you clear information about how much you owe on your mortgagee as well as the terms of your agreement
  • offer you alternative ways of paying your mortgage to avoid repossessing your property 
  • not take you to court if you are taking the reasonable advised steps to stick to your lending agreement 
  • give you debt advice 

What is the house repossession process? 

If you are wondering how to stop repossession of house, then you may first wish to get familiar with the legal process of repossession. Below we take a closer look at what the home repossession process involves: 

The first stage of the repossession process is your mortgage lender will be in touch with you to make a plan with you to pay off your arrears. If you are concerned about missing a payment then you can reach out to your lender for advice, you do not need to wait for them to call you. 

 

The majority of mortgage lenders will have signed the government’s mortgage charter which means that they have made an agreement not to evict people within a year of their first missed payment unless there are circumstances which can be classed as exceptional. 

If you and your lender cannot agree on a repayment plan, then your lender may start court action to repossess your home. In order to start the eviction process, they must be able to provide a list of all missed payments, the total level of arrears and the outstanding mortgage debt before they apply to court. 

The court will send you several letters and forms that must be kept together. It is a wise idea to purchase a file and keep any relevant documentation inside. Then you should check all documents carefully before completing and completing the defence form. 

The next step is that you will attend a repossession hearing. If you are not present for this hearing then you will damage your chances of keeping a hold of your home significantly. This is because if you do not show up to the hearing, you run the risk of the court making an outright possession order on your property and you could lose your home as a result. 

 

If you are unable to attend your hearing due to reasons beyond your control you should inform the court as soon as possible. 

At the hearing, the court will make a decision about the repossession of your home. There are two types of possession orders that the court can grant. These are: 

 

  • an outright possession order
  • a suspended possession order 

 

If the court grants an outright order then that means they have set a date for you to leave your home. This has the potential to be as soon as 4 weeks after the hearing. 

 

If the court grants you a suspended order then you will be allowed to stay in your home but on the terms set by the court. This will typically mean that you must pay back a set amount alongside your monthly mortgage payment. 

 

It may also be a case that the lender’s claim may be dismissed or adjourned at the hearing. 

In the event that the court makes a suspended repossession order and you break the terms of the agreement, or they grant an outright order and the date for possession has passed, they may ask the bailiffs to evict you. In order for this to happen, the lender must apply for an eviction warrant from the court, and they must send you a notice to inform you of this decision. 

If you are evicted from your property, then your mortgage lender will sell your house. After the sale has gone through, any secured creditors and our mortgage lender will get their money back. If there is any money left over from the sale you will receive it. If you owe more than the property ends up selling for, then you may have to pay the mortgage shortfall back. 

What happens when a repossessed house is sold?

If your lender is trying to repossess your some and has gotten to the stage where they have taken legal action and evicted you, then the next step will be to sell your home. After the sale is complete and your lender has sold your property, they will: 

 

  • Deduct any legal and estate agent’s fees
  • Take the money they are owed from the proceeds
  • Repay any other lenders in the event that your property has been used as security for a loan 
  • Send any money that is left over to you

 

If there is a mortgage shortfall, then you will have to pay the difference. A mortgage shortfall occurs when you owe more than you can get from selling the property. Your lender may take you to court to repay this shortfall. 

 

If you do not repay this debt and go on to purchase a new property, then your previous lender may apply to the courts for powers to force you to repay the original shortfall. 

Do all repossessed houses go to auction?

The most popular outlet for repossessed properties is often a property auction. This is because lenders will wish to recoup their losses as quickly and securely as possible, which a property auction allows them to do. Rather than selling on the open market, lenders tend to favour property auctions as the winning bid becomes legally binding when the gavel falls. This means any investors who purchase the property cannot pull out of the sale without facing serious financial repercussions. 

How long does it take for a repossessed house to be sold?

Exactly how long it will take for your repossessed property to sell depends on the condition of your property, the location, the selling method and market conditions. Many lenders wish to be rid of repossessed properties quickly, so they can recoup their losses faster. Typically, repossessed houses can be sold and have the sale completed in a month if they are sold through a property auction. 

 

If they are sold through an estate agent, they can take slightly longer to sell, due to the different methods of sale involved.

How to avoid repossession

If you are looking at trying to avoid repossession house, there are steps that you can take. The best thing you can do if you have fallen into mortgage arrears or are worried about paying your mortgage is to contact your lender. Whilst it can be tempting to bury your head in the sand, you should always reach out to your mortgage provider.  It is within your lender’s best interest to keep you in your home and paying your mortgage, so by informing them of your situation as soon as possible, you will be able to resolve the issue faster. Your lender will be able to help to provide you with a new strategy for paying your mortgage, or they may suggest a mortgage holiday or paying your mortgage a few days late if you are suffering from temporary financial struggles. 

 

You should also look at seeking financial independent advice. There are plenty of housing charities which are there to offer free, impartial support to those who are struggling financially. Charities such as Shelter can help you with housing advice, but it is also worth getting in touch with Citizens Advice as well. 

Can I have my home repossessed voluntarily? 

It is possible to do what is called voluntary repossession. It involves handing back your keys to your lender if you cannot afford to pay back your mortgage arrears. However, if you hand back your keys and move out, you will not be able to live in your home. Furthermore, it can affect your: 

 

  • benefits
  • options if you need housing help 
  • credit rating

How quickly can i sell my house to avoid repossession?

In order to avoid repossession, you should look into selling your home as quickly as possible. This gives you the best chance to sell your property within the allotted time and to raise the funds necessary to pay off your mortgage. Exactly how quickly you can sell your house to avoid repo is down to the selling route you wish to explore. 

 

If you sell through a cash buyer, then you have the potential to sell in a timeline that suits you, meaning you could get your property sold in as little as 7 days, however, it is worth bearing in mind that you will not get the full market value of your property for this price. 

 

If you sell through a property auction, you can sell and complete within a month, but it is worth bearing in mind that once you sell you will be required to pay a commission to the auction house. 

 

If you sell through The Property Selling Company, we can help you sell your home fast and for free in as little as 28 days. 

Can I sell my house before it gets repossessed?

Whilst a repossession order may seem final, there are still steps you can take to try and stop your order. You can always try and renegotiate with your lender in order to see if a new strategy can be reached.

 

If you feel as though you will be unable to pay off your debt, or that you will be unable to meet the ongoing repayment obligations then you may be able to request more time to sell the property so you may clear the debt. 

 

In order to stop the repossession of your home, you will be required to provide your lender with proof that a sale is in progress.  

 

If you are looking to stop repossession of your home and sell your house fast, there are typically three ways you can go about doing this. You can either sell through a quick house sale company, through a property auction, or on the open market. As with any selling option, there are pros and cons involved with these three selling routes. Below we take a closer look at how quickly you can sell your property using these options: 

Cash Buyer

Selling through a cash buyer is an avenue that some people looking to stop house repo may wish to explore. A cash buyer is a person or company who is able to purchase your property without the need for a loan or mortgage meaning they are able to purchase your property in a timescale that suits you. Some cash buyers have been known to complete in as little as 7 days, making it an avenue some sellers use to stop repossession. 

 

However, in return for this fast sale, you will not get full market value. And if you are reliant on the money from this house sale to help settle your debts are help you avoid a mortgage shortfall, then you will be unable to afford less than market value. Furthermore, not all sell house fast are as reputable as they appear. Some have been known to use underhanded tricks to pressure sellers, so it is always wise to ensure they are regulated by a board such as The Property Ombudsman or the National Association of Home Buyers. 

Property Auction

A property auction is another route that people facing repossession may wish to look into. This is because a property auction offers a secure way of selling your property as once the gavel falls all winning bids become legally binding. 

 

However, you should bear in mind that whilst all bids are legally binding, there is no guarantee of a sale. You may also find that there is a lot of waiting involved in the property selling process which if you are seeking a quick sale is not ideal. Furthermore, you will be required to pay a commission once your property has sold to cover the costs of marketing and selling your home. 

Sell through us

Selling a house to avoid repossession can be a tricky situation to deal with, but it doesn’t need to be. Here at The Property Selling Company, we pride ourselves on our philosophy that selling a house should be three things: fast, effortless, and free

 

We have made it our mission to shake up the way that you sell your home, which is why we offer a full online estate agency service but without the fees and hassle. Rather than forking out for expensive legal and estate agent fees, we cover them for you. It’s just one of the ways that we take the stress out of selling. 

 

Our dedicated team of property experts work alongside you through every step of the selling process and beyond and can help you sell and avoid repossession house in as little as 28 days. 

 

So, if you are ready to stop house repossession, then get in touch today and fill in one of our free, no-obligation valuation forms today! 

Posted on

Types of House Surveys & Is a Survey Required to Sell a House?

house surveys

Types of House Surveys & is a survey required to sell a house?

Looking at the different types of house surveys available, from homebuyer reports to building surveys, and how it can affect your home sale.

We will cover your survey when you sell via us!

WRITTEN BY: Alexandra Ventress ★ Digital Content Writer

arrow

Types of House Surveys & Is a Survey Required to Sell a House?

Looking at the different types of house surveys available, from homebuyer reports to building surveys, and how it can affect your home sale.

We will cover your survey!

WRITTEN BY: Alex Ventress ★ Digital Content Writer

arrow

Table of Contents

When it comes to putting your home on the market, an aspect that you may not be looking forward to is the house survey. These house surveys come in many forms, covering different aspects of your property, and highlighting any issues you may have. If you are worried about the results of these surveys possibly derailing your sale, then you may have questions about what the process involves and how it can affect you. 

 

In this blog post we will be looking at selling house survey, the different types of house surveys available, and whether you need one in order to sell your house. 

 

Looking for a quick answer? Check out our interactive menu to the left! 

Is a house survey a legal requirement?

A house survey is a document that details the condition of a property, looking into any red flags it may have, that have the potential to cause issues later down the line. There are many different types of house surveys that you can have done to your property. 

 

You may get a survey done when you are buying a house, in order to ensure you are not purchasing a problem property. 

 

Whether you are selling or buying a property, getting a home survey performed is heavily recommended although it is not recommended. If you are selling your home and you do not wish to have a home survey performed, then you may run into trouble as buyers may be less likely to buy as they may feel as though the property has something to hide.

 

Who performs the survey? 

The survey will be performed by a qualified surveyor, who will either be a member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), or the Residential Property Surveyors Association (RPSA).

How many types of surveys are there?

When it comes to selling your home, there are 4 main types of house surveys that you will be more than likely dealing with. Each of these surveys plays an important role in the house-selling process and highlights a different aspect of the property you are selling. These are as follows: 

 

  • Condition Report – This survey provides a simplistic ‘traffic light’ system for the condition of the property
  • Homebuyer Report: This is a slightly more in-depth survey with far more details. This report will recommend any further investigations that may need to take place and offer advice on a budget for any repairs that may need to take place. 
  • Building Survey –  This is a comprehensive in-depth survey of the property, also known as a full structural survey. It is one of the more expensive surveys. 
  • New Build snagging survey – If you have a new build then this survey will more than likely take place. Its purpose is to illuminate any issues that the property may have. 
 

What are the different types of surveys?

As we have already mentioned, there are a number of different types of house surveys available when selling your home. Exactly what survey your buyer may choose will depend upon them, the depth of survey they want, as well as the budget, age and condition of the property. Until 2021, there were 3 types of property surveys available. These were the Home Buyer Report, Condition Report, and Building Survey. However, these names have since changed, so below we take a closer look into the survey types, names, and what they involve:

A level 1 survey is suitable for people who are purchasing a typically conventional property that is made from common building materials. Previously referred to as a Condition Report, this is the most basic survey available and is the cheapest. 

 

This survey will provide you with a ‘traffic light system’ that rates different areas of the property, looking at services, grounds, and any problems that may require attention. It will also provide you with a summary of the risks that the property may bring but it doesn’t provide too much detail. 

Once referred to as a Home Buyer  Report or Homebuyer Survey, a Level 2 survey that is popular with those who are purchasing a conventional property that appears to be in a reasonable condition. This survey covers everything that you would typically receive in a Level 1 survey but with the additional checking of roof and cellar spaces. 

 

This survey will also provide you with recommendations about any further steps that will need to be taken, as well as the cost of the repairs that need to be made, market value, and a reinstatement figure for insurance. 

An RPSA Home Condition Survey is the equivalent of a level 2 survey, but rather than being performed by RICS, it is done by the Residential Property Surveyors Association. These surveys are independently checked to ensure they are produced consistently and are correct. They will also provide you with information such as broadband speed, damp assessment and boundary issues. 

A full structural survey, also referred to as a RICS Home Survey Level 3 and previously as a RICS Building Survey, is the most in-depth survey offered by RICS. 

 

If your property is over 50 years old, has a slightly more unusual design, is in poor condition, or is listed, then this may be a survey that your home buyer has done. They are a more expensive survey to have done, but as a result, they are incredibly thorough. 

 

The level 3 survey will include everything that you would receive in a RICS Home Survey Level 2, plus it will also describe any identifiable risks and causes of potential or hidden defects in areas that your surveyor has been unable to inspect. If there is any remedial work that needs to be carried out then the survey will outline the scope of it, as well as explain what will happen if no action is taken to correct this. It will also inform you about the timeline for necessary repairs and the priority. 

A RPSA building survey is the most non-invasive survey from RPSA. As a part of this survey, you will get everything from the Home Condition survey, plus a more in-depth description of the construction and defects. It will also give an explanation of how to go about rectifying defects and the consequences that not doing the required work. 

Survey costs 

Exactly how much a survey will cost will depend on the type of survey, as well as the property. Below are the approximate costs of the different surveys: 

Tpye of report Cost
Condition reports£300
Homebuyer reports£400
Building surveys£600+

Is a mortgage valuation the same as a survey? 

No, a mortgage lender’s valuation is not the same as a RICS home survey. It is simply a look over the property to assess how much it is worth. A mortgage lender will require a mortgage valuation as it ensures the property is sufficient security for the loan. 

We cover all your selling costs (inc surveys)!

What are red flags on house survey?

When you get the results of a house survey back, there may be some red flags noted. These are issues that could either potentially occur or are already occurring in your property and will need to be remedied. Below are some of the most common issues that a RICs surveyor may come across when performing a house survey report: 

 

Subsidence and structural issues 

The biggest red flag that can be found in a house buyers survey is subsidence. Subsidence occurs when the ground beneath the property begins to compress and sink. This uneven ground can then take its toll on the home and misalign the property foundation. Subsidence is a serious safety issue for your property, as it compromises the structural integrity of the home. 

 

Damage from subsidence can be significant and can be incredibly costly to repair. Because of this, it is often viewed as one of the worst results you can get from a survey. 

 

Unapproved extension

Another red flag that may be present in your survey is unapproved extensions. These are building works or extensions that have been carried out without receiving the correct form of building regulations, planning permissions, or Party Wall Agreement. If this is found to be the case, then you as the seller could face serious legal penalties, such as prosecution and a fine. It would also mean that the buyer would be liable once they bought the home. 

 

Furthermore, building work that has been performed without the relevant paperwork and documents may not be safe and poses a threat to the buyer and the seller. 

 

Issues with the roof

Roof issues are another problem that can be highlighted during a survey. Minor defects such as cracked, loose, or missing tiles can be fixed quickly and fairly cheaply, however, more severe issues can be expensive and time-consuming to rectify. 

 

Mould 

Mould is another red flag that can pose an issue to the health and safety of those living in the property. According to information from the NHS, mould can be responsible for many different allergic reactions and irritants, as well as producing toxic substances. If you have a weakened immune system, skin conditions, or respiratory issues then you may be particularly affected. 

 

Old wiring 

Old wiring is not only a safety hazard to those living in the property, but it can also be expensive to replace. If significant issues with the wiring are discovered, then your surveyor may suggest you consult an electrician. 

 

Heating system issues 

As a good rule of thumb, you should have an annual gas and safety check and boiler service. If you do not have any up-to-date certificates, then you should get in touch with a professional to check the system out. 

 

Japanese Knotweed 

Another red flag that may be present in your home is Japanese Knotweed. Notoriously hard to get rid of it is always best to seek professional advice, as if left unattended, this invasive weed can cause structural issues to your home as well as devaluing your property. 

 

Who pays for the issues on a housing survey? 

Should you have a survey done on your property that highlights less than positive results, then it is up to the buyer whether or not they want to continue with the purchase. Should they still be interested in the property, then they may try and renegotiate the price with the seller to compensate for the cost of any repairs that may need doing. 

 

Or the buyer may ask for you to pay for the repairs before the sale is completed.

What to Do if You’re Nervous About Your Home Survey

It is normal to feel nervous about a survey being performed on your property, but it is a normal part of the selling process and is not a cause for concern. As long as your property is in reasonable condition you should have no issues during the process.

It’s important that you don’t try and hide or cover up any issues from the surveyor and instead follow our tips to help you best prepare for the property survey: 

One of the best ways that you can prepare for your upcoming survey is by doing a deep clean of your property. Thoroughly cleaning your property is a great way to get rid of mould, dirty tiles, stains and other issues, as well as making it easier for your surveyor to get to the areas they need to in your property. 

Next on your list to prepare should be to clear your home of clutter. It’s important that your property is accessible to the surveyor, so you should be sure to move or put away anything that can cause accidents or will get in the way. You may also wish to arrange for any children or pets to stay with friends or relatives for the day whilst the survey is taking place to avoid distractions. All of the property should be easily accessible but make sure there is a clear path to the garage, attic, and shed. 

Whilst you are cleaning and clearing your property, it may also be a good idea to remove any items from your window sills or fireplaces in order to allow your surveyor to be able to check them for damage. 

Small issues such as damaged tiles, dripping taps, and hairline cracks can be fixed fairly easily before you put your property on the market. However, do not attempt to fix more serious issues yourself without the help of a professional. 

If you suspect there are any issues with your property, you should be upfront with your surveyor about them. Surveyors know exactly what they are looking for, so you can save time by being honest and upfront with them. 

Sell your house & face no fees

Can you sell your house without a survey?

It is possible to sell your home without a survey, however, it would be incredibly difficult to do so. Many buyers on the open market are not going to want to purchase a property without being able to do even the most basic survey. Purchasing a house is one of the most expensive financial decisions a person will make in their life, and chances are they will not want to risk purchasing a home with structural issues, old wiring, subsidence, or Japanese Knotweed when they could instead have a survey performed. 

 

If you are worried about having a survey performed on your property, it may be within your best interests to pay to have one performed so that you are aware of any pressing issues that may be present in your home. This way you can make the necessary changes and your property could potentially be worth more as a result. 

 

Ready to sell your home? 

If you are ready to put your home on the open market, then you have come to the right place! We are The Property Selling Company, an online estate agency who are here to change the way you feel about selling houses. We pride ourselves on our philosophy, that selling a house should only be three things: fast, effortless, and free

 

We offer you an alternative from the mundane and to shake up the traditional route of estate agency, allowing you to sell your house in as little as 28 days. And as an added bonus, we help you sell without the legal or estate agent fees! 

 

We work alongside you through every step of the house-selling journey, covering everything, so you won’t have to. Our team of property experts are by your side, marketing your property on popular portals such as Rightmove and Zoopla, organising viewings, covering legal fees, and negotiating for better deals, all for free! 

 

So if you are ready to sell your home in as little as 28 days, then get in touch today and fill out one of our fast, free, no-obligation forms to get the ball rolling! 

SearchSell Your House For FREE!
Are you interested in selling your home? You can get started today - just fill in this quick form.

What are you waiting for? Sell the easy way

Posted on

Selling a House Without Fensa Certificate: Do I Need One?

Window certificate

Selling a House Without Fensa Certificate: Do I Need One?

Looking at whether you need a fensa certificate to sell your property, whether you need a FENSA certificate for windows, and the answers you need to find out how to obtain one.

Sell your house in 28 days

WRITTEN BY: Alexandra Ventress ★ Digital Content Writer

arrow

Selling a House Without Fensa Certificate: Do I Need One?

Looking at whether you need a fensa certificate to sell your property, whether you need a FENSA certificate for windows, and the answers you need to find out how to obtain one.

Sell your house in 28 days

WRITTEN BY: ALEXANDRA VENTRESS ★ Digital Content Writer

arrow

Table of Contents

Selling your home is undoubtedly a stressful experience. It can be time-consuming organising your property, choosing your estate agent, and organising your estate, without discovering you are missing vital paperwork that both your solicitor and buyer will need to see. 

 

One such document that you may have misplaced is your FENSA certificate, which can make selling a lot more difficult than you may have originally anticipated, adding extra hoops for you to jump through with your sale. If you are selling your property and wondering if you need a FENSA replacement certificate, then read on. 

 

In this blog post we will be looking at whether you need FENSA certificate selling house, FENSA certificate meaning, and how no FENSA certificate selling house. 

Sell your house without the fees

Is it worth getting a FENSA certificate?

Yes, it is. Besides being a legal requirement, there are plenty of reasons why you should have a FENSA replacement certificate. It works as a declaration and it proves to the homeowner that the company that installed the windows or doors: 

 

 

It also verifies that your warranty is insured and is essential when it comes to selling a property. 

 

FENSA certificate requirements prove that building regulations have been complied with. It is worth getting FENSA certification in order to stay on the right side of the law when selling your property. 

How long do they last? 

A FENSA certification will last as long as the doors and windows that they cover do. The document is used for the property, not the person who had the doors or windows installed. 

What is FENSA? 

FENSA is a government scheme that is responsible for monitoring BUILDING Regulations compliance for replacement windows and doors in England and Wales. 

 

When FENSA was set up, it was the government’s first competent person scheme. This means that FENSA has a register of accredited double-glazing installers who can be chosen by homeowners to replace any doors or windows with confidence. 

What does FENSA cover? 

There can be confusion over what exactly FENSA covers. You will find that replacement windows and doors as well as roof lights are covered by FENSA but they do not cover the following: 

 

  • Porches
  • Conservatories 
  • New Builds 
  • Window repairs 
  • Extensions 

What if I didn't receive a FENSA certificate?

If you know you used a FENSA approved installer for your window and door but have lost your documentation, you will be able to find and order your FENSA certificate online or through the post. When you order a replacement windows and doors FENSA certificate online, you will need to  include the following information: 

 

  • Postcode
  • House number or name 
  • The FENSA ID number (but only if you have this information) 

 

If you wish to order the document through the post, you will be required to send a cheque to FENSA, as well as a letter that covers the following information: 

 

  •  The full name of the company name and business address of the FENSA-registered company that completed the work on your property 
  • The name and address of the property owner 
  • The address and postcode where the installation happened 
  • If you decide to have the replacement certificate sent to a different address, then you will need to include this as well 

Sell your house in as little as 28 days

How much does a FENSA cert cost?

If you have misplaced your FENSA certificate and wish to receive a replacement online, you can expect a fee of £25, including VAT. If you decide to send a cheque in the post, this cost will increase to £30 due to an administrative charge. 

How do I get a FENSA certificate for my windows or doors?

As we have already mentioned, you get a FENSA certification when you get replacement windows or doors installed. This document will typically take around 2-4 weeks to be issued. If you have had windows and doors installed by a non-FENSA installation company, then it can take you up to 2 months to get a certificate from your local authorities’ Building Control department. 

Is FENSA mandatory?

From 1st April 2002, any windows that have been replaced by a professional are strictly required to have a FENSA certificate in order to demonstrate that the work has been done to meet the relevant standards, or you will be able to show this using a building regulations certificate. 

 

Regardless of the certificate that you have in your possession, it is illegal to have double glazing installed in your home without having either a FENSA certificate or a building regulations certificate in place. 

What if I don't have FENSA certification? 

If you want to put your home on the market but do not have a certificate, then do not worry, there are other routes available to you! One option is to apply to your local authority for a “Retrospective Building Regulation Compliance Certificate”. However, this procedure will usually cost between £300-£400 and may take some time. During this process, your local authority will go through the database detailing the work done in the area. 

 

You may also be able to take out double glazing building regulations indemnity insurance, but the work must have been completed more than a year ago. If this is an avenue that you wish to explore, you should make sure that it covers any costs you may owe if the installation does not meet the necessary requirements. 

 

Alternatively, you can have a building control officer come to the property. They will be able to inspect the property and come to a conclusion on whether the doors and windows meet the standard requirements. If they do then the building officer will be able to issue your property with a certificate that will prove compliance. however, this service will come with a charge that is subject depending on your local authority.

Can I sell a house without a FENSA certificate?

You may be wondering, ‘Do I need a FENSA certificate to sell my house?’ The answer is yes. Whilst you may not require FENSA certification, some kind of certification will be required in order to clarify that the building work meets the necessary standards. 

 

If you find that you have no FENSA certificate for windows or doors on your property, then you do have options to remedy the lack of certification. You can obtain a replacement issued directly by FENSA, take out indemnity insurance, or Retrospective Building Regulation Compliance Certificate. 

 

It can be incredibly difficult to sell a property without a FENSA certificate. This is because many lenders will be willing to borrow against a property where the necessary documentation is not present. Lenders can be concerned by the risk that the property may not comply with building regulations. They may also be concerned that this could make the property impossible to sell should the buyer default on their mortgage. 

Sell to us! 

Whilst a FENSA certificate is a non-negotiable when it comes to selling your home, we believe that estate agent and legal fees shouldn’t be! Here at The Property Selling Company, we pride ourselves on our philosophy that selling a house should be three things: fast, effortless, and free

 

We are here to shake up the traditional route of estate agency, offering you an alternative from the mundane and allowing you to sell your house in as little as 28 days and without the legal or estate agent fees. 

 

We work alongside you through every step of the house-selling journey, covering everything, so you won’t have to. Our team of property experts are by your side, marketing your property on popular portals such as Rightmove and Zoopla, organising viewings, covering legal fees, and negotiating for better deals, all for free! 

 

So if you are ready to sell your home in as little as 28 days, then get in touch today and fill out one of our fast, free, no-obligation forms to get the ball rolling!  

SearchSell Your House For FREE!
Are you interested in selling your home? You can get started today - just fill in this quick form.

What are you waiting for? Sell the easy way

Posted on

Selling Your House With Noisy Neighbours Solutions

selling house with noisy neighbours

Selling Your House With Noisy Neighbours Solutions

Looking at how you can sell a house with noisy neighbours, how it can impact your search for a buyer and how we can help you sell your home regardless of nuisance neighbours.

Alexandra Ventress

Alexandra Ventress ★ Digital Content Writer

Table of Contents

Everyone at some point or another in their lives has had a dispute with their neighbours. Whether it is as minor as something such as a one-off noise problem or something slightly more serious such as boundary disputes, from time to time, people will fall out. But what do you do when the one off noise problem becomes a nightly occurrence? 

 

You can be left feeling trapped in your own home and may even wish to move house because of it. But can your nuisance neighbours have an effect on your house sale? 

 

If you are selling house with nuisance neighbours, then read on!  In this blog, we will be looking at problem neighbours what to do, what to disclose when selling house with noisy neighbours, and how we can help you get your home on the open market, noisy neighbours or not! 

 

Looking for a quick answer? Check out our interactive menu to the left! 

What Do I Need to Disclose About My Neighbours When Selling?

When it comes to selling your home, you are legally required to disclose any neighbour disputes you may have had. Though what exactly is classed as a dispute is open to interpretation, you need to be wary that failure to disclose a boundary dispute or dispute over shared house maintenance could result in the new buyer seeing you for misrepresentation so it is wise to tread carefully. 

 

If you have had a noise issue over loud music that has not been repeated or a minor issue that has been resolved in an amicable matter, then you will not need to disclose this. But if you have had any of the following issues, then you will be legally required to disclose this to the new buyers: 

 

  • A boundary dispute – this includes issues surrounding hedges, fences, or land ownership 
  • Shared maintenance – disputes surrounding guttering, gardens, communal areas, or drains
  • Reporting – If you have had to report your neighbour to the police or local authority or written to them regarding an issue
  • Noise disputes – late-night parties, loud music, noisy pets and children are all common noise complaints
  • Building work disputes – Any disputes over building work that may have been done on the properties will need to be disclosed
  • Verbal abuse –  if your neighbours are becoming  verbally or physically abusive, then you should keep notes and contact the police where appropriate    

Do you have to declare noise complaints when selling a house UK?

As we have already mentioned, it can be hard to know exactly what qualifies as a dispute. If you have had the occasional noise complaint that has been settled amicably, then there will be no need to mention this to potential buyers. However, if you are regularly suffering from excessive noise as a result of your neighbours, then this will need to be disclosed. Failure to do so can result in a misrepresentation suit from the new owner of your property. Instead, it is better to declare noisy neighbours on your sellers property information form. 

Do sellers have to disclose bad neighbors?

If you have a problem with noisy neighbours when selling, you may be reluctant to disclose information regarding them in the fear of scaring potential buyers off. If the issues with your neighbours are small and have been amicably resolved, then you should not worry too much. However, if you and your neighbour have major and unresolved issues, such as a months-long fight over damage caused by a neighbour to a home or flat, or serious disputes over property boundaries, then you are legally required to disclose this when selling. 

 

You can do this using the TA6 Property Infomation Form where you must disclose any and all issues from the past and present which may affect the property. This includes present, past, and even resolved, and any that may be at risk of occurring. If you are unsure about what you should include on the form, talk to your solicitor. You should disclose anything you think is relevant and they will be able to tell what you do and don’t need to include. 

How long are you liable after selling a house UK?

In the UK you can find yourself being liable for a property for 6 years after you have sold it. This is because under the Misrepresentation Act 1967 if a seller has not been honest about aspects of the home that become an issue for the current owner, the seller will find themselves legally liable for 6 years. 

 

This means if you have a neighbour dispute, structural issues, or Japanese knotweed that you have not made your buyer aware of, you have the potential to end up in court. 

 

Thankfully, there is a way to help reduce your liability. By offering as much information as possible, you are able to reduce your liability. Whilst you may not want to scare off potential buyers, it is far better to be open and honest about any problems your property may have to help avoid issues later down the line. The best way you can do this is through the TA6 Seller’s Property Information Form. This form allows you to declare any issues with the property, from neighbour disputes to structural issues and is important documentation, especially if the buyer takes you to court further down the line. If you are not honest or misrepresent the buyer in any way, you run the risk of facing major costs in compensation and legal action later down the road. 

Can I resolve my noisy neighbour disputes? 

Although it can be incredibly challenging, you may be able to resolve neighbourly disputes. In order to stand the best chance of resolving the issue, you should try and solve any problems as they happen. This means being open and friendly with your neighbours and working with them to find the best solution. Otherwise, things can escalate and you may end up struggling to sell. 

However, if your neighbour is unwilling to resolve the issue at hand, you will need to tackle the issue in a different way. 

 

If your neighbour lives in a rented property, then you should approach your neighbour’s landlord and request their help to resolve the conflict at hand. 

 

If they are homeowners, you will need to try a different tact. You could write to your neighbour and ask if they are willing to talk to try and find an amicable agreement for all involved. If this does not work, or the agreement is breached, you could write to your neighbour once and more and ask if they would be willing to participate in mediation services to help end the conflict. 

 

If the mediation is unsuccessful or your neighbour refuses, then your dispute will qualify as a statutory nuisance and you will then need to contact your local council about the problem. You are also able to contact Citizens Advice for more guidance and help in handling a dispute. 

 

If the dispute involves harassment, violence or any other illegal behaviour you will need to contact the police. 

 

Should the previous attempts to bridge the dispute be unsuccessful, then you may wish to consider court action. This can be expensive and lengthy so you should try all of your other options before taking your dispute to a judge. 

Can I sell my house with bad Neighbours?

Yes, you can! Whilst neighbour disputes can be tricky to navigate, they do not mean that you cannot put your home up for sale! When it comes to sell a property with noisy neighbours, there are three popular routes that sellers often take. These are selling through either a cash buyer, a property auction, or an estate agent. As with any selling option, each of these ways comes with pros and cons, which we have explored below…

Cash house buyer 

The first option that you may wish to explore when dealing with noisy neighbours selling house is selling to a cash house buyer. A cash buyer is a person or a company who is able to purchase your property without the need for a loan or a mortgage. Because of this, they are often a more secure sale that is less likely to fall through, and as they do not need a loan or mortgage they can purchase your property in a time scale that suits you. 

 

Furthermore, cash buyers are not likely to be put off by things like disputes with neighbours. They will often buy any house in any condition, meaning structural issues or neighbour problems are not a concern for them.

 

However, as with every selling decision you will need to shop around for cash buyers. Not every company operates in the same way, and some have been known to play some fairly underhanded tricks. In order to make sure that you are going with the best option, you should check to ensure they are a member of a regulatory board such as the Property Ombudsman or The National Association of Property Buyers. You should also shop around for offers and check online reviews to ensure you are going with the best possible option. 

 

Another downside to selling through a cash buyer is that they will not offer you full market value for your property. Exactly how much below market value they will purchase your property for will vary from cash buyer to cash buyer, however on average you can expect between 5 – 10% below market value, but between 15-30% below are also fairly common. 

Property Auction 

Another method for selling house because of noisy neighbours is to sell through a property auction. A property auction works by setting a minimum reserve price for your property. Prospective buyers will then bid on the property until the reserve price is met. The highest bid over the reserve price will win the lot and be the new owner. 

 

The main advantage of selling through a property auction is that it attracts serious buyers. This is because once the gavel falls, the winning bid becomes legally binding. This means that the new owner cannot pull out of the sale without facing legal consequences. 

 

An auction is a great way to sell a house with noisy neighbours, as property auctions are often favoured by those who are looking for their next investment or development. 

 

However, if you are looking for a quick sale a property auction is less than ideal. This is because they involve a lot of waiting on both sides of the sale. You will need to wait for the next property auction to enter your property, which can sometimes be months away. Then once the sale is done you will need to wait for paperwork to be signed and completed, and you can end up waiting longer to sell your property than you originally planned to. 

 

Furthermore, selling at a property auction is not without costs. In return for marketing and selling your property, auction houses charge a fee which will come out of your final profit. 

Estate agent 

If you are looking to sell your property with nuisance neighbours, then another selling route you may have considered is an estate agent.  An estate agent will undertake all of the heavy lifting in your house sale, from marketing to viewings and negotiations in return for a percentage of the selling price.

 

Selling through an estate agent is a great selling option as it is their job to sell properties. Neighbour disputes are not uncommon and by selling with an estate agent, they will be able to help you negate the disputes and get your home sold on the open market. 

 

Furthermore, estate agents are able to help take the stress out of a house sale by taking care of the legwork to ensure the sale goes as smoothly as possible. 

 

Selling house with noisy neighbours

Selling house with noisy neighbours can be difficult, but it doesn’t have to be. Here at The Property Selling Company, we believe selling a house should be three things: fast, effortless, and free. 

 

We have made it our mission to change the way that you sell your home. We offer a full online estate agency service but without the fees and the hassle. Rather than forking out for expensive legal bills and estate agents’ fees we cover them for you, it’s just one of the ways that we help to take the stress out of selling. 

 

Our dedicated team of property experts will be by your side throughout the process and can help you sell your house with noisy neighbours in as little as 28 days.  

 

So, if you are dealing with noisy neighbours selling house and are ready to get onto the open market, then get in touch today and fill out one of our free, no-obligation online valuation forms today!