Home Selling FAQs

Find answers to some of the most common questions about buying and selling a property. Our FAQ section is designed to give you clear, straightforward guidance at every stage of your property journey.

At SOLD BY Sarah Oliver LTD, clients benefit from a far more personal and involved service than is often possible with larger corporate agencies. Every property is treated individually, with genuine attention given to presentation, pricing strategy, buyer matching and communication throughout the sale. Rather than being passed between departments, sellers deal with experienced people who know their property, understand their goals and stay closely involved from valuation through to completion. For many clients, that personal approach creates a smoother, more proactive and less stressful moving experience.

Strong marketing is about far more than simply listing a home online. SOLD BY Sarah Oliver LTD focuses on presenting homes in a way that creates maximum impact — from professional photography and carefully written descriptions to targeted social media exposure and buyer engagement. Each home is marketed to highlight what makes it special, helping attract serious buyers and generate strong interest quickly. The aim is always to create the best possible first impression and achieve the strongest outcome for the seller.

Clear communication is one of the areas clients often value most. At SOLD BY Sarah Oliver LTD, sellers are kept informed throughout the process with regular updates, honest feedback and straightforward advice. Questions are answered quickly, viewings are followed up properly, and clients always know where their sale stands — which can make a significant difference during what is often a stressful process.

Yes — modern buyers expect more than traditional property advertising. SOLD BY Sarah Oliver LTD combines strong local knowledge with modern marketing techniques, including social media reach, digital exposure and carefully targeted presentation designed to generate attention in today’s market. This allows homes to reach a wider audience while still benefiting from expert local advice.

Everything you need to knwo about buying a home.

Buying a home is one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make, and whether you’re a first-time buyer, moving up the ladder or relocating, understanding the process can make everything feel far more straightforward.

At SOLD BY Sarah Oliver LTD, we believe buying a home should feel exciting — not overwhelming. Below are some of the questions we’re asked most often, with clear answers to help guide you through the process.

Most buyers will need a minimum deposit of 5% to 10% of the purchase price, although a larger deposit often gives access to more competitive mortgage rates. For example, if you are purchasing a home for £300,000, a 10% deposit would be £30,000. Your mortgage adviser will help you understand exactly what options are available based on your circumstances. We work with a fantastic local independent mortgage advisor – check out our ‘mortgage services’ page on our website to get started

Yes — this is always a smart first step. Having a Mortgage Agreement in Principle means you know your budget before you begin searching and it also shows sellers that you are in a strong position when making an offer. It can often make your offer more attractive, especially in competitive situations.

Alongside your deposit, there are a few additional costs to consider: • Solicitor or conveyancing fees • Survey costs • Mortgage arrangement fees • Stamp Duty (if applicable) • Removal costs • Buildings insurance Planning for these early helps avoid surprises later in the process.

Stamp Duty depends on the purchase price of the property and whether you are a first-time buyer, replacing your main residence, or purchasing an additional property in United Kingdom. Rates can change, so we always recommend checking current thresholds before proceeding.

Once you have found the right home, simply let us know the amount you wish to offer. We will present your offer to the seller along with any supporting information, such as: • Your mortgage position • Whether you are chain-free • Your preferred timescale • Any flexibility you can offer Strong communication at this stage can make a real difference.
Once accepted, the property is marked as sold subject to contract. At this point you should: • Instruct a solicitor • Submit your full mortgage application • Arrange your survey • Prepare any documents requested by your lender We stay closely involved throughout to help keep everything progressing smoothly.
This means the seller has accepted your offer, but the sale is not yet legally binding. The property remains in the legal process until contracts are exchanged.
Yes — even if a property looks perfect. A survey can reveal structural issues, damp, roof concerns or maintenance matters that may not be visible during a viewing. This helps you buy with confidence.
A typical purchase takes between 8 and 16 weeks, although this can vary depending on: • Mortgage processing times • Legal searches • Survey results • Whether there is a chain involved Every transaction is different, but clear communication always helps keep momentum.
Conveyancing is the legal process of transferring ownership from seller to buyer. Your solicitor handles: • Contracts • Property searches • Legal enquiries • Mortgage lender requirements • Completion arrangements
Your solicitor will usually arrange: • Local authority searches • Environmental searches • Water and drainage searches These checks ensure there are no hidden legal or environmental concerns.
The deposit is usually paid when contracts are exchanged. This is normally 10% of the purchase price unless otherwise agreed.
Exchange is the point where the sale becomes legally binding. Both parties commit to the transaction, and a completion date is agreed. After exchange, the move is officially happening 🎉
Completion day is when the remaining funds are transferred and ownership changes officially. Once confirmed, you receive the keys and can move into your new home 🔑
Absolutely. At SOLD BY Sarah Oliver LTD we work closely with buyers at every stage, making sure the process feels clear, personal and well supported. No jargon, no confusion — just honest advice and guidance from start to finish.