Selling through an online estate agent is generally more similar to using a traditional agent than many homeowners expect. The property still needs to be prepared, advertised, viewed and negotiated before progressing through the legal process.
Step 1: Property Valuation
Establish an appropriate asking price using a physical valuation, online assessment or a combination of market data and professional advice. Consider the property, location, comparable sales and current market conditions.
Step 2: Preparing Your Property for Market
Prepare professional photography, floor plans, a property description, BER details, relevant video or drone photography, and useful information about the home and surrounding area.
Step 3: Advertising Your Property
Your home is launched to the market. Ask which property portals and marketing channels are included, as digital exposure is important to buyers.
Step 4: Property Viewings
Viewings may be conducted by the agent or the homeowner. Homeowner-managed viewings can lower costs and let buyers speak directly with someone who knows the home well.
Step 5: Buyer Qualification and Offers
The agent should establish each buyer’s position and manage competing offers appropriately. The objective is to identify the strongest realistic buyer and terms.
Step 6: Sale Agreed
After an offer is accepted, solicitors manage the legal transaction. The estate agent can continue assisting with communication and progression.