Unlock The Secrets To Summer Selling

Considering moving home? With longer days, increased property market activity and better opportunities for viewings and photography, summer is the ideal time to start acting on your relocation plans.

Here at Rowe & Co. our team have over 35 years of experience selling homes across Chandler’s Ford and the broader Hampshire region, and we know that summer is a fantastic time to get moving. That’s why we’ve compiled our insight into our free Secrets Of Summer Selling downloads to kick-start your move this season.

Download Your Complete Selling Checklist

Looking to move this summer? Make sure you take our complete selling checklist with you to help you find and secure your perfect new home, wherever you are.

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Download Your Complete Buying Checklist

Purchasing a new home this summer? Download our handy checklist to keep you on track and streamline your buying process, with top tips on financing, legals, paperwork and more!

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Download Your Post-Purchase Checklist

You've purchased your new home, but what comes next? Let Rowe & Co. run you through the 10 steps to moving success covering bills, handing in notice, packing up and much more!

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Why Sell Your Home This Summer?

Whether you’re a seasoned seller or putting your property on the market for the first time, summer offers unique opportunities to showcase your home in its best light. From enhancing curb appeal to finding the best agent to scheduling a valuation, we’ll delve into steps you need to take this summer that can help your home stand out in a competitive market.

Showcase Your Property In Its Prime

With the summer sun shining down on your property, there is now better time to create beautiful marketing materials to showcase your property in its prime.

Move In Before Winter

With winter just a few months away, many homebuyers will be hoping to find their next home in the summer so they can be settled in by Christmas.

Take Advantage Of Market Trends

Generally, the property market slows down in winter and experiences a summer boost - take advantage of this boost in interest by listing your home in the summer.

Find a Trustworthy Agent

The first step is simple – find an agent with a proven track record and strong reputation. Thorough research before committing to an agency is crucial, as it can significantly influence the success of your sale.

An agent with a solid reputation increases your chances of selling your property as buyers are more inclined to trust and purchase from reputable agents, who also tend to have extensive contact lists for promoting your property. Experienced sales professionals excel at motivating potential buyers to make competitive offers. As such, selecting a reputable agent can streamline your sales process and enhance the likelihood of achieving your desired price. Additionally, agents with deep local knowledge understand buyer preferences, successful selling points, and effective marketing strategies tailored to prospective buyers.

The Rowe & Co Difference

Schedule A Valuation

Once you’ve chosen your ideal sales agent, it’s crucial to price your property correctly. While many agencies offer instant online valuations that can provide a quick estimate, we highly recommend having an agent visit your property for a thorough assessment. An in-person evaluation by an experienced agent is far more accurate and informative. They can evaluate the condition of your home, leverage their local market knowledge, and suggest improvements to enhance its value. Additionally, a comprehensive valuation will consider the current social, economic, and political factors that could influence your property’s worth. If you’re unsure of your property’s value, consulting multiple agents can help you establish a reliable price range.

Book A Valuation

Clear The Clutter

Once you have settled on a valuation you’re comfortable with, it’s time to prepare your property for listing! If your agent has recommended any enhancements to increase the value or overall appeal of your home, now is the perfect moment to implement these changes. Whether it’s a fresh coat of paint, trimming an overgrown garden, or conducting a thorough cleaning, making these improvements before photographs and viewings is crucial.

Now your home is looking its best, collaborate with your agent to arrange professional photos and videos for your listing. High-quality visuals are essential in attracting potential buyers and showcasing your property in the best light. Your agent can help you schedule a session with a skilled photographer or videographer to capture stunning images and footage that highlight the unique features of your home.

List Your Property

Now it’s time to list your home and start scheduling viewings! It’s crucial to maintain regular contact with your selling agent to stay informed about scheduled viewings and ensure you’re always prepared to welcome potential buyers. Decide whether you prefer your agent to conduct viewings in your absence or if you want to be present for all showings. If you opt for the former, provide your agent with the necessary keys and access codes.

Selling With Rowe & Co

Ace Your Marketing

To effectively market your property, have your agent create stunning internal and external photographs that highlight your home’s best features. Take advantage of the beautiful British summer weather to produce captivating videos that showcase your property in the best possible light. Ensure your listing is featured on the most relevant property portals to reach a wide audience. Additionally, request updates on any marketing activities your agent undertakes. Many agents – Rowe & Co included – utilise social media, property portals, and email notifications to reach potential buyers. Always hare these marketing posts with your network of friends, family, and colleagues: chances are, someone within your extended circle, or someone they know, might be interested in purchasing your property.

Don't Neglect The Paperwork

The final step in perfecting your property sale is to arrange all the necessary paperwork, which will help speed up the process. Here are the key documents you’ll need:

Proof of identity
Land registry title documents
Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR)
FENSA certificates (if you have replaced the windows)
Leasehold documents (if applicable)
New build warranties (if the property was built less than a decade ago)
Gas safety certificate (if the property uses gas)
Any relevant planning permission and building regulation documents
Appliance guarantees and warranties

Having these documents organized and readily available will streamline the sale and provide potential buyers with the information they need to proceed confidently.

Why Buy Your Next Home This Summer?

Have you already aced the selling stage of the house moving process? Or are you a first-time buyer looking to find your first home? Here at Rowe & Co, our team have been trusted by hundreds of home movers to help them buy their perfect home in Hampshire – keep reading to unlock our secrets to buying the right home this summer.

More Options

Vendors will be more likely to list their properties in summer to take advantage of that summer boost, which gives buyers more options to choose from.

More Viewing Opportunities

With lighter evenings and longer days, there are far more opportunities in the summer to schedule viewings and find the right home for you.

Explore Your New Neighbourhood

Whilst the summer sun is out, there is no better opportunity to explore your potential new neighbourhood and its amenitie.

Understand Your Finances

Before searching for your next home or investment, it’s crucial to understand your financial position, as this clarity helps you determine what you can afford and streamlines the mortgage and offer process. If you need to sell your current property to buy a new one, start by getting a valuation. This will give you a clear idea of your home’s market value, helping you set a more accurate budget. A valuation can also provide tips on how to increase your property’s value before listing. For a reliable valuation, contact our team. Finding a trustworthy mortgage broker or provider is equally important. They can guide you through the mortgage process, keep you updated on new deals, and help you secure favorable rates.

Obtaining an Agreement in Principle from a reliable lender is essential. This demonstrates your seriousness as a buyer when making an offer. Lenders will need your financial details, including income, credit, and address information. For the actual mortgage application, be prepared with 3 months of paychecks, 3 months of bank statements, details of any outstanding debts, identification, and evidence of your deposit.

Begin Your Search

With your finances in order, you’ll understand your budget limitations, which will guide your home search. Check if you’re eligible for government schemes like shared ownership or the first homes scheme, as these can increase your affordability. You should also create a list of must-have features for your new home, such as the number of bedrooms, garden, parking spaces, and proximity to essential amenities like work, schools, and family.

Once you know your budget and property priorities, start searching. While portals like Rightmove, Zoopla, and OnTheMarket are great, building a rapport with local agents can give you an edge. They often know about upcoming listings and may allow you to schedule viewings before the properties go live. Follow your agent on social media and subscribe to their email newsletters for even more opportunities.

Explore Our Properties

Make An Offer

Once you’ve found the perfect property, it’s time to make an offer! Start by determining your maximum value — the highest amount you’re willing to pay based on market research, your financial situation, and the property’s value. Work closely with your real estate agent to craft an offer that reflects the current market conditions and the property’s value.

When making your offer, consider factors such as the property’s condition, its location, recent sales of comparable homes, and any unique features it may have. Your agent’s expertise in negotiation can be invaluable at this stage. They can help you structure an offer that is attractive to the seller while protecting your interests.

Remember, the goal is to reach a mutually beneficial agreement with the seller. Be prepared for counteroffers and maintain open communication through your agent to ensure a smooth negotiation process. By staying flexible and responsive, you increase your chances of securing the property at a price and under conditions that work for you.

Buying With Rowe & Co

Legals and Paperwork

Once you’ve agreed on a price and secured your new home, it’s crucial to organize your paperwork efficiently. To ensure everything proceeds smoothly, select a conveyancing team to manage these processes. Regardless of your choice, prioritize experience and accessibility.

Here’s a checklist for handling paperwork and legal requirements:

Conduct Anti Money Laundering and ID Checks
Arrange for property surveys
Arrange for local searches
Organize your notice to complete
Confirm your financial arrangements

Your conveyancer will support you through each step of the property purchase, overseeing the process until completion. This involves transferring funds, signing completion forms, and exchanging contracts.

Keys and Handover

Now comes the exciting part – receiving the keys to your new home! Coordinate with your estate agent to arrange the collection of keys and begin enjoying your new space.

Download Your Free Buying & Selling Checklist

Are you prepared to start this next chapter? Get in touch with our friendly, local experts to find out how we can help you in your buying or selling journey!