FAQ

Even if you have found a prospective buyer without any public marketing of your property, you will still need a solicitor to handle the legalities (conveyancing). And the buyer will need their own solicitor to represent them in that process. We can handle your conveyancing but we will need the official offer from the buyer’s solicitor.

Note: selling privately is not usually recommended if a seller wishes to achieve the best possible selling price. The seller will not have the benefit of determining what the wider marketplace would pay for their property, which could be surprisingly high in a buoyant marketplace, such as we have in Edinburgh, especially with our ‘Offers Over’ system. A higher price achieved by advertising on the open-market could significantly outweigh any perceived downsides in doing so.

Here are some tips to help speed up the selling process of your home:

1. Choose the Right Estate Agent: Select a reputable and proactive estate agent who knows the local market well. All the other points mentioned below can be discussed in detail with a good agent.
2. Get a Home Report Early: Have a Home Report ready before putting your property on the market. This includes a single survey, an energy report, and a property questionnaire.
3. Set a Competitive Price: Price your property realistically based on market conditions and similar properties in the area. Overpricing can lead to your home staying on the market longer.
4. Boost Kerb Appeal: First impressions matter. Ensure the exterior of your home is clean, well-maintained, and inviting. Simple improvements like fresh paint, tidy gardens, and clean windows can make a big difference.
5. Declutter and Stage Your Home: Present your home in its best light by cleaning decluttering and, where appropriate, staging. A well-staged home can help buyers envision living there and make a quicker decision.
6. Make Necessary Repairs: Address any obvious repairs or issues before listing your property. Fixing leaky taps, broken tiles, or peeling paint can help your home appear well-maintained and ready to move into.
7. Be Flexible with Viewings: Accommodate potential buyers’ schedules by being flexible with viewing times. More viewings can lead to a quicker sale.
8. Consider Offers Quickly: Respond to offers promptly and be open to negotiation. Being decisive can help keep the process moving smoothly.

Our estate agency fees start at 0.75% +VAT, but it’s important to note that we offer various options and payment styles. The exact cost will depend on various factors, including the type of property, the services you require, and your specific circumstances. Every property and client is unique, and as such, we offer a range of options tailored to meet your needs.

If, like most people, your property is your greatest asset, it deserves the optimal service when selling & buying. We will provide you with a clear and transparent breakdown of any associated costs and options from the outset.

Please feel free to get in touch for a no-obligation consultation, and we will be happy to discuss the best package for your situation.

Yes. Using the same solicitor for both your sale and new home purchase is actually strongly recommended. It can simplify the process, reduce stress, and potentially save you time and money. Here’s why:

Streamlined Communication: With one solicitor handling both transactions, you won’t have to coordinate between multiple parties. This reduces the risk of miscommunication.
Familiarity with Your Situation: The solicitor will have a comprehensive understanding of your circumstances, ensuring a smoother transition between selling and buying.
Efficiency: It can speed up the process as the solicitor can simultaneously manage timelines, paperwork, and deadlines for both transactions.
Consistent Legal Advice: You’ll receive consistent advice and have a single point of contact for all your legal queries. Streamlining this process with one solicitor could make your move less hectic and more seamless.

If you’re in a hurry to sell your property, the timeline can vary based on your specific needs.
To expedite the process, consider setting a competitive asking price right from the start. In Edinburgh, some sellers opt for a fixed price strategy immediately rather than the “offers over,” making it clear to potential buyers what they need to secure a deal.

To maximize your chances of a swift sale while still aiming for a good price, it’s essential to enhance your property’s appeal. This could involve minor repairs or aesthetic upgrades that make your home more inviting. The visual presentation plays an important role in attracting buyers and can significantly affect their response time.

As of February 2025, properties in Edinburgh typically attract suitable buyers in a median time frame of 21 days. However, remember that this doesn’t account for the initial setup time for marketing, making it vital to engage an active and responsive estate agent. Once a buyer is found, the conveyancing process may take additional time, often influenced by the buyer’s mortgage arrangements.

For those needing immediate solutions, please contact us to discuss off-market selling options that may suit your needs.

In any case, you are advised to speak to a solicitor-estate agent about your specific circumstances.