So you have decided to sell your house for whatever reason, trading up or downsizing. We have all seen the programmes on television on how to improve your home on a budget to help sell your house. PropertyRelated aims to offer a basic guide on selling your home.

If you are selling your house, you will know some insights into property dealings from when you purchased your house. Selling your house is a slightly different state of affairs.

A quick overview:

Preparation

• decide on how you want to sell your house – estate agent, privately or via auction
• estimate the cost involved with the sale
• make your home appealing to the buyer, have a good clean and clear clutter. Finish off any DIY repairs

Valuation and marketing of your property

• carry out a property valuation. Your estate agent can help you here. Do your research on how much houses have sold for in your street/area
• advertising, through your estate agent, online, and/or get a 'for sale' board
• viewings

Negotiation

• establish all the offers that have been presented. Push for a higher price. Be realistic
• decide on the best offer for you. The highest price is not always the best

Conveyancing

• instruct a solicitor or a licensed conveyancer to handle your sale. See our guide to conveyancing solicitors and surveyors
• commission a Home Information Pack (HIP)