What should you ask on a property valuation?
We have a varied number of questions asked on our valuations - we encourage them! Here we look at the 6 most popular…
🏡 The 6 Most Common Questions We’re Asked on Valuations
When we carry out valuations, clients often have the same concerns. Here are the six questions we’re asked most frequently — and our answers.
1) Should I market my home before I find?
Our advice usually is: yes, market first.
Many homeowners worry about selling before they’ve found their next home, fearing they’ll be “homeless” or have wasted everyone’s time. Others feel their property is unique and will sell quickly, so they’d rather wait until they’ve found something.
👉 But here’s the truth: every home is unique, and if everyone waited until they’d found, no homes would ever come to market.
An experienced agent will always manage buyer expectations regarding your position. Remember, you’re not forced to move if you don’t find somewhere suitable. Plus, selling first puts you in a stronger financial position. (See our article: Should You Find a Buyer First or Find a Home First? for more details.)
2) Is now the right time to sell?
This can mean either the time of year or the state of the market.
At the time of writing (July 2023), interest rates are at a 15-year high (5%). Rising mortgage rates may impact affordability and transaction volumes.
While we haven’t yet seen forced sales, if rates continue to climb, some owners may need to reassess their position.
Even in a slower market, remember this: if you accept slightly less for your sale, you can often negotiate a better deal on your purchase.
📅 Traditionally, September (pre-Christmas movers) and January (summer movers) are our busiest listing periods. That said, the right time is the time that suits you.
3) How do you value my home?
Our valuers consider:
- Size, layout, and condition of your property
- Comparable recent sales
- Competing homes currently on the market
We offer three methods:
- Instant Valuation – Quick and easy but based on computer data, so less accurate.
- Remote Valuation – Upload photos and details for a more tailored figure.
- Face-to-Face Valuation – The most accurate method, as we assess your property in person.
4) How much will it cost to move?
Common costs include:
- Estate agency fees
- EPC
- Removal fees
- Conveyancing fees (these vary greatly — we can provide a free quote)
- Stamp duty
- Mortgage fees
- Surveys
5) How do I know what my budget is?
Speak to a mortgage advisor early in your moving journey.
We can arrange an appointment following your valuation. Not only will this give you clarity on affordability, but it will also strengthen any offers you make — sellers and agents take you more seriously when your finances are confirmed.
6) How do I pick the right agent?
This decision will shape your whole moving journey. Consider:
- Does the agent have both a strong high street presence and online reach?
- Do they have proven experience selling your property type in your area? (Ask to see Rightmove stats.)
- What do their reviews say? (Check Google and platforms like ESTAS.)
- How are their listings presented online? Would you be happy if it were yours?
- Are they active on social media?
- Most importantly — do you trust the team? Meet them, talk to them, and judge their enthusiasm, knowledge, and ability to negotiate the best price.
💬 If you’d like to discuss any of these questions in more detail — or anything else property related — our team is here and ready to help.
We are here and ready to help in any way we can. 🧑💼
☎️ Call: 01474 321957
📧 Email: gregg@mandmprop.co.uk