Selling your property doesn’t have to be stressful. With Pattinson’s expert support, market-leading marketing, and dedicated team, you can sell with confidence.
Seller’s Guide
Everything You Need to Know About Selling Your Home
Selling your home is a significant step, and at Pattinson, we’re here to make the process smooth and stress-free. Whether you're a first-time seller or have sold properties before, our expert team is on hand to guide you through every stage of the process, from valuation to completion.
We can assist with valuing your property, marketing it effectively, negotiating offers, and handling the legal work needed to complete the sale.
If you have any questions or need further support, reach out to your local Pattinson branch, and one of our experts will be happy to help.
You'll also find a frequently asked questions section at the bottom of this page.
If you're also buying a new home, check out our
Find Out How Much Your Property is Worth
Understanding your property’s value is the first step. A realistic valuation ensures you attract buyers and achieve a successful sale.
At Pattinson, we offer a free, no-obligation valuation service to help you set the right price for your property.
Preparing Your Property for Sale
First impressions matter! Make sure your home is in top condition before putting it on the market. Consider:
• Decluttering and depersonalising – Help potential buyers picture themselves
in your home.
• Carrying out small repairs – Fixing minor issues can make a big difference.
• Freshening up with a coat of paint – Neutral colours create a welcoming feel.
• Boosting kerb appeal – First impressions start outside, so tidy up the garden and entrance.
For expert advice, check out our guide
Choosing an Estate Agent & Listing Your Property
Selecting the right estate agent is crucial. At Pattinson, we pride ourselves on our honest valuations, clear communication, and expert marketing strategies to get your property sold quickly and at the best price.
Why choose Pattinson?
• Established in 1977, with decades of experience.
• The largest independent estate agency in the North East.
• Extensive marketing on major property portals and social media. Accompanied viewings to help present your home in the best light.
Marketing Your Property
Once listed, we’ll market your property to maximise exposure and attract serious buyers. Our strategy includes:
• Online advertising – Your home will be showcased on Rightmove, Zoopla, OnTheMarket, and Pattinson’s website.
• Email and SMS alerts – Sent to registered buyers looking for a home like yours.
• Social media promotion – Reaching local buyers through targeted campaigns. Branch network – Your listing is shared across our 30+ interlinked offices.
Handling Viewings
Our dedicated agents will manage and accompany all viewings, making the process hassle-free for you. Where possible, we’ll group viewings together to limit interruptions to your day and create a sense of demand among potential buyers. This can help drive interest and increase the likelihood of strong offers.
We’ll also be on hand to answer buyers’ questions and guide both you and them through the next steps, ensuring a smooth and informed experience.
Receiving and Negotiating Offers
When an offer is made, we’ll inform you immediately and help you negotiate the best possible price. Factors to consider include:
• The buyer’s financial position (e.g., cash buyer vs. mortgage-dependent).
• Any chain dependencies.
• The buyer’s willingness to move quickly.
Once you accept an offer, it’s time to instruct a solicitor for the legal work.
Hiring a Solicitor/Conveyancer
Your conveyancer will manage all the legal aspects of selling your property, including:
• Drafting and exchanging contracts.
• Carrying out necessary legal checks.
• Handling the transfer of ownership.
At Pattinson, we offer fixed-fee conveyancing with a no move, no fee guarantee.
Drafting and Reviewing Contracts
Typical Timeframe: 1-2 weeks
Your solicitor will draft the sale contract, detailing the terms of the sale and any included fixtures and fittings. This will be sent to the buyer’s solicitor for approval.
Buyer’s Searches and Surveys
Typical Timeframe: 2-4 weeks
The buyer’s solicitor will conduct legal searches, and the buyer may commission a property survey to assess the home’s condition.
Signing and Exchanging Contracts
Typical Timeframe: 6-8 weeks from offer acceptance
Once all checks are complete, contracts are exchanged, and the sale becomes legally binding. The completion date is agreed upon at this stage.
Final Preparations Before Completion
Typical Timeframe: 1-2 weeks after exchange
At this point, finalise any arrangements for moving day. You’ll also need to settle any outstanding utility bills.
Completion Day
Typical Timeframe: On the agreed completion date
Once the buyer’s payment is received, ownership is officially transferred, and you hand over the keys.
Selling property FAQs
The timeframe varies, but most sales take 6-10 weeks from offer acceptance to completion. Factors such as property chains and mortgage approvals can impact the timeline.
Yes, an EPC is a legal requirement when selling a property. If you don’t have one, we can help arrange this for you.
Yes, many sellers choose to sell first to avoid being stuck in a chain. We can help you navigate both transactions.
Unfortunately, this can happen. We’ll re-market your property quickly and continue working to find another buyer.
With Pattinson, there are no upfront fees, and our no sale, no fee policy ensures you only pay when your property is successfully sold.
We offer an auction option, which can secure a faster sale with a fixed completion date. Learn more about our property auctions.