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During these unprecedented times, there are a number of tasks we are still able to complete to aid the smooth sale or purchase of a property. From a fresh lick of paint, a spruce up of a garden to research into the most effective solicitor or best-rated removals company, we have put together a list of some of that tasks you could undertake during the current isolation lockdown.
SELLERS
Find an experienced local agent
A good agent will be happy to give a suggestion on the best aspects of your property to focus on. Beauchamp Estates offer expertise in Prime Central London, the Home Counties, the south of France, Mykonos and Tel Aviv and will be happy to review your property by video call.
Find your preferred solicitor
Conveyancing work is not always given the attention it needs by some solicitors. Spend some time looking for a good one, ideally through recommendation, to ensure that once a transaction is underway that it does not then stall due to lack of attention.
Prepare your sales pack
Many vendors underestimate how long it can take to prepare and source all the information required in a vendor pack.
Resolve any outstanding legal matters pertaining to the title of the property
Unresolved lease, boundary or deed issues can cause a delay.
Check that your property is correctly registered with the Land Registry
Its simple to do and will allow you to check boundary and ownership remotely
https://www.gov.uk/search-property-information-land-registry
Improvement works
If you are planning to undertake kitchen and or bathroom refurbishment prior to sale, then many companies offer simple online planning tools, BandQ, IKEA, Magnet, etc. Or if you are more of designer purchase a more advanced planning software tool or app: The Spruce provides handy reviews of what’s out there for ktichens:https://www.thespruce.com/kitchen-design-software-programs-1822198
Repairs
Prioritise repairs and identify simple ones that you can complete your self
Decorating
A fresh coat of paint will improve appearances and allow you to select neutral colours that appeal to a wider range of buyers, many companies will supply tester posts online.
Gardening
If you have any outside space start preparing this for viewings, as it will be a key selling feature and allows you to get outside for fresh air while isolating or social distancing.
Local facilities research
Prepare an additional information sheet on things in the area that might appeal or be of interest to your buyer:
Closest doctors surgery
Best schools: infant, juniors secondary
Local markets/specialist stores
Best local green spaces
Community group
Removal Companies
Check for professional reputable removal companies, through referral or online reviews
BUYERS
Area and neighbourhood research
Search online for reviews of the area and streets you are potentially interested in: use Google Maps to take a virtual walk around the area – the street view facility will allow you to see basic topography but do check the dates of the images you are viewing.
Funding and Finance
Ensure that all information and supporting documents relating to your application for finance are in order and accurate. The process of securing funding can take longer than expected and if competing for a property with another buyer your position and ability to proceed quickly maybe help secure the property for you.
Search the local authority planning portal
This will reveal any applications in the area for changes of use, extensions, development etc. and if they are pending, approved or denied. The local authority website will also provide details of any infrastructure projects and areas of development, which may affect the future value of property in the area, positively or adversely.
Schools
If you have or are planning to have children then check OFSTED reports for local schools. Reports are available online at:https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/ofsted
Look at rental properties in the area
If there are lots of properties to rent in the area, then this may create a less permanent community, with residents who take little interest in the area. As a buyer looking to put down roots, this is not likely to be something that will help create or sustain a community.
Look at area property data
Use sites like Zoopla, Prime Location and Mouseprice to monitor values and turn over of property in the area you are interested in.
Assess crime data
The Police keep records of reported crime in all areas and this can be reviewed online:https://www.police.uk
Insurance
Assess the costs of property insurance, which is easily done online
Find your preferred solicitor
Conveyancing work is not always given the attention it needs by some solicitors. Find a good one through a recommendation to ensure that once a transaction is underway that it does not then stall due to lack of attention.
Removal Companies
Check for professional reputable removal companies, through referral or online reviews.
Survey
Consider the costs of different types of a survey in relation to the property you are buying. While a mortgage company will insist on a valuation survey if buying a house or conversion it may be prudent to consider the cost of a full structural survey.
If you would like to know what you can do prepare your property for sale, the Beauchamp Estates are still functioning fully from home and are able to offer a virtual valuation. In addition, we are still carrying out viewings via guided 360-degree virtual tours.
Mayfair Sales: londonsales@beauchamp.com / 020 7499 7722
Marylebone Sales: information@beauchamp.com / 020 7499 7722
St John’s Wood Sales: rosy@beauchamp.com / 020 7722 9793
