As a general rule everything has a price so you need to be realistic about the value of your property. We offer realistic valuations from the onset, which will be based on current market data and experience of the property market. We regularly monitor and review your marketing.

Potential buyers need to imagine themselves living in your house. If you have items that you don't use on a daily basis it may be worth having a sort out, or putting them in a attic or into storage. First impressions count so make sure entrance hallways are as free from clutter as possible. For viewings try and remove items in the bathroom that can look cluttered around the bath and try and make work surfaces as clear as possible. Remember to empty the bins!

If your property is looking a little tired consider a fresh coat of paint, new tiling or a fresh piece of lino. If you don't want to pay for new tiling consider re grouting which will freshen up the appearance.

If you don't want to re decorate it is essential that your house is spotless! Pay attention to carpets and furniture (especially if you're a pet owner) Pay special attention to kitchens and bathrooms making sure they are hygienic and inviting. If you have built in wardrobe space potential buyers may wish to have a look inside so be aware of this and make sure they are presentable! Gardens are now seen as additional rooms so make sure that it looks tidy and appealing.

First impressions count and you'll want the house to appeal to as many people as possible; the more people there who like the property the higher the selling price should be. If you have pets consider leaving them with a neighbour, thoroughly clean up pet hair as some people are allergic to animal hair. Turn the heating on to make sure the property is warm but well aired. Lighting can also add a nice ambience to a room. If you have parking leave a space free for the buyer as this will positively add to the experience.

It is advised that you arrange a solicitor early on in the process so a file can be opened in readiness. Click here to go to our conveyancing section.

If you require a mortgage on your ongoing purchase your lender will be arranging a mortgage valuation. In addition you may require a survey. Barbers work closely with Spencer Hustwick Surveyors who are able to quote for all types of surveys. Click here to go to our conveyancing section.

Throughout the sale Barbers work closely with solicitors, solicitors, lenders, intermediaries, surveyors and any other connected parties to ensure the process goes as smooth as possible. Barbers regularly request updates from solicitors to ascertain the progress of searches, enquiries possible exchange and completion dates and then relay this information to all parties involved in the sale. If any problems do occur we endeavour to resolve them as soon as possible with the help from your solicitor.

In England and Wales, Exchange of Contracts is the last stage of the legal process after which you cannot pull out (without losing your deposit and any legal costs you may have incurred) This refers to when copies of signed documents are exchanged between the buyers conveyancer and the sellers conveyancer.

Once everything is ready, your buyer will then be asked to pay a deposit before contracts can be finally exchanged. This is a percentage of the property value. Note, at this stage if the buyer pulls out, they will lose their deposit and may face legal action.