Frequently asked questions: Selling a property privately in the UK
I've already got an estate agent – can I still use Bethemiddleman.com?
Yes – you can still use Bethemiddleman.com if your contract with the estate agent is:
- Sole agency
- Multi agency
- Ready, willing and able purchaser
If you sell the property first, you won't have to pay them any commission - hooray! If a potential purchaser is referred originally from your agent you will incur their usual charges - Boo!
If your contract with the estate agent is 'sole selling', they are the only ones with the legal right to sell your house and we're afraid you can't use this service.
How much is my property worth?
It's a myth that estate agents decide on the value of a house – they look at what other properties in the area have sold for and make an estimation. You can find this information out for yourself through the (land registry?).
Choose your property value based on what other houses have sold for, the condition of your property and most importantly, what figure you would be happy with. Remember, it's normal for buyers to make an offer so be prepared to negotiate.
How do I list my property?
First, register an account with Bethemiddleman.com. Signing up is easy and you'll have access to our full range of services. Login to your account and choose the 'List a property' tab (not sure how this is going to work yet).
What do I need to list a property?
The more information you have about your property the better your listing will be. You will need at least one picture of the property and some information about it – it's layout, key features, room dimensions etc.
Can I list more than one property?
Yes – you can list as many properties as you like on Bethemiddleman.com. See our multi-listing section for more information.
Do I need a Home Information Pack?
Yes – you are required by law to have a Home Information Pack before you put a property on the market. You will be required to state that you have one before your property listing can go live on this site.
Where can I get a Home Information Pack?
You can get your HIP:
- From a HIP provider
- From a conveyancer
- Compile it yourself
The cheapest option is usually to use a HIP provider – this is because sourcing the relevant documents yourself can be expensive and time consuming! A HIP provider will have negotiated discounts because they buy documents in bulk, and they can pass these savings on to you.
Where can I get a floor plan of my house?
Currently we are in the process of setting up partnerships with Floor Plan companies so you can get a floor plan of your house. Until then we would suggest search the local classifieds for Floor Plan suppliers.
How much does it cost to list a property?
A basic property listing is absolutely free – you only pay for extras such as more pictures, a for-sale sign, etc. There are no hidden costs and you can see exactly what your listing will include during the sign-up process. You can add more features to your listing at any time, so why not choose the free package and then add things as you need them?
Do you provide for-sale signs?
Yes – just login to your account, click 'edit my listing' (or some such) and choose the for-sale sign option. You can create your own personalised for-sale sign and order as many as you wish. We have to pass on the cost of these signs – it helps us keep the rest of the service free!
I don't want to give out my contact details!
You don't have to – all sellers receive a unique email address so that potential buyers can send you a message without compromising your privacy. You can check these messages in your account, or have them forwarded to your personal email.
You also have the option of receiving phone calls from buyers. We will allocate you a unique phone number which forwards to your real number – you never have to give your phone number out.
How do I arrange a viewing?
Login to your account and use the 'availability calendar' to select dates and times when you would be happy for people to view your property. Buyers will use this calendar to request a viewing.
When someone requests a viewing you will receive an email (or text?) alert. This will contain the potential buyer's contact details – be sure to get in touch to confirm the viewing or arrange further details.
What happens when someone makes an offer?
It's up to you whether or not to accept the offer. You'll need to engage a conveyancer or solicitor to handle the contract – they will liase with the buyer's conveyancer to finalise the sale.
