Buying and Selling a Home at the Same Time
Buying and selling a home simultaneously might feel like a juggling act, but with the right approach, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At WhiteKnights, we’ve helped countless homeowners in Reading navigate this process smoothly, and we’re here to ensure you’re supported every step.
Buying a new home while selling your current one can feel like a juggling act, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At WhiteKnights, we’ve been helping local families for years, so I want to share some straightforward advice on how to keep things moving smoothly.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to buying and selling a home at the same time.
Step 1: Get Your Property Valued
The first thing you’ll want to do is understand how much your home is worth. At WhiteKnights, we’ll carry out an in-person valuation and look at everything - your property’s condition, its unique features, and the current local market here in Reading. This way, we can help you set a realistic price and put you in a strong position when you go to market.
Step 2: Know the Costs Involved
Understanding the financial side is key. When selling, you’ll need to account for legal costs, removals, and marketing fees. On the buying side, factor in stamp duty, solicitor fees, and mortgage arrangement costs. Our team can help break these costs down and even connect you with trusted local solicitors and our recommended mortgage brokers to guide you through every step.
Step 3: Get a Grip on Your Finances
It’s important to know how much equity you have in your current property, what savings you can use, and how much you can realistically spend on your next home. We can help you explore mortgage options to ensure you’re making the right financial move.
Step 4: Preparing Your Home for Sale
First impressions really do matter! Take the time to address any issues that might put off buyers, and make sure your home looks its best. Decluttering and a fresh coat of paint in key areas can make a big difference. Our team is more than happy to offer personalised advice on how to present your home to attract the right buyer.
Step 5: Bringing in the Right Professionals
You’ll want the right team around you to make the process as stress-free as possible:
- Estate Agent: We know the Reading market inside out, and we’ll be there to support you through every part of the journey.
- Solicitor/Conveyancer: We can connect you with trusted local professionals who’ll take care of the legal work involved.
- Surveyor: If you need a property survey, we can recommend someone reliable to get the job done.
Step 6: Getting Your Paperwork in Order
There’s no way around it; getting your paperwork sorted is essential. This includes title deeds, proof of ID, and records of any work done to your property. Having everything ready will help prevent delays when offers start rolling in.
Step 7: Hitting the Market
Once your property is ready, it’s time to get it in front of the right buyers. We’ll create a tailored marketing plan, including professional photography, online listings, social media posts and local advertising to attract serious buyers.
Step 8: Evaluating Offers
It’s not always about choosing the highest offer. We’ll help you weigh up each buyer’s circumstances to ensure you’re dealing with someone who is motivated and reliable.
Step 9: Making an Offer on Your Next Home
When you find your next home, we’ll guide you on making a strong offer and advise you on how to avoid common pitfalls, like getting gazumped.
Step 10: Navigating the Property Chain
Property chains can be complex, but communication is key. We’ll stay on top of things and keep everyone in the loop to ensure your sale and purchase move forward smoothly. Our dedicated sales progressors will be on-hand to chivvy up the entire chain and make sure that it stays on course!
Step 11: Setting Exchange and Completion Dates
Once contracts are exchanged, things are legally binding, and we’ll be on hand to make sure completion day runs smoothly. We know how important timing is when it comes to moving, so we’ll work with you to make sure it all lines up.
Buying and selling a home doesn’t have to be daunting. At WhiteKnights, we’re here to make sure you have the right guidance, local expertise, and support every step of the way. If you’re thinking of buying or selling, let’s have a chat and see how we can help.
If you have any questions at all, I'd love to hear from you.
Rob Milne
Managing Director, WhiteKnights