How to Sell Your Property in the UK: A Complete Guide for 2025

Whether you’re upgrading, downsizing, relocating, or releasing equity, selling a property in the UK involves more than just listing it online. From choosing an estate agent to completing legal contracts, every stage has its own timeline, costs, and potential pitfalls.

This guide explains how to sell your property step by step, with tips on speeding up the process, avoiding common mistakes, and getting the best price.

Should You Sell Now? Understanding the 2025 Property Market

Before putting your house on the market, ask yourself: is this the right time to sell?

The UK property market in 2025 is seeing steady growth in regional areas and more stability in mortgage interest rates after a turbulent few years. According to data from the Halifax House Price Index, prices rose slightly in Q1 2025, especially in areas like the Midlands and Wales.

If you have built up equity or are moving to a more affordable area, it could be a financially sound time to sell.

Step 1: Get Your Finances in Order

Before anything else, speak to your mortgage lender and ask for a redemption statement. This will show:

• Your current mortgage balance

• Any early repayment charges (ERCs)

• The daily interest calculation

• Fees for releasing the property title

For example, Nationwide and Barclays typically apply ERCs of 1–5% during fixed-rate periods. This cost may affect your decision to sell now or wait.

You should also check your credit report and get pre-approved for your next mortgage if you plan to buy a new property after selling.

Step 2: Decide How You Want to Sell

There are several ways to sell a home in the UK:

Most people use a traditional high street or online agent, especially for residential properties.

Step 3: Prepare Your Property for Sale

First impressions matter. Here are key tips to make your home appealing:

• Declutter every room to increase space

• Deep clean carpets, windows, and bathrooms

• Neutral décor helps buyers visualise living there

• Fix minor repairs like loose handles or chipped paint

• Improve kerb appeal with clean windows and a tidy front garden

Consider getting a pre-sale survey or energy performance certificate (EPC) if yours is out of date—it’s a legal requirement in the UK before marketing your home.

Step 4: Set the Right Asking Price

Setting a realistic and competitive asking price is crucial. Overpricing leads to fewer viewings; underpricing may cost you thousands.

Ask for three separate valuations from estate agents, and consider checking:

• Recently sold properties in your postcode via Rightmove

• Land Registry data

• Online valuation tools from banks like Santander or HSBC

You can also get a mortgage valuation if you’re remortgaging after selling.

Step 5: Choose a Conveyancer or Solicitor

You’ll need a licensed conveyancer or solicitor to handle the legal paperwork and transfer ownership.

Compare quotes and make sure your chosen professional:

• Is regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) or Council for Licensed Conveyancers (CLC)

• Provides clear fee structures (no hidden extras)

• Is responsive and willing to update you regularly

Costs usually range from £600 to £1,200 depending on location and complexity.

Step 6: Accept an Offer and Start the Legal Process

Once you receive an offer, you can:

• Accept it outright

• Reject it

• Negotiate for more

After accepting, the buyer’s solicitor will perform searches and the mortgage lender (if applicable) will complete their valuation.

Your solicitor will prepare:

• Draft contract

• Property Information Form (TA6)

• Fixtures and Fittings Form (TA10)

• Title Deeds

Once both sides are ready, you’ll agree on an exchange date and a completion date—usually 1–4 weeks apart.

Step 7: Exchange Contracts

This is when things become legally binding. Both parties sign the contract and deposit funds are transferred.

At this point:

• You cannot back out without financial penalty

• Your buyer is locked in as well

• Completion is usually set within 1–2 weeks

You should now begin packing and finalise moving arrangements.

Step 8: Complete the Sale and Move Out

On completion day, your solicitor:

• Confirms receipt of the balance from the buyer

• Pays off your mortgage with the funds

• Transfers the title via the Land Registry

• Sends you the remaining proceeds (minus fees)

You are now legally required to vacate the property and hand over the keys—usually done via the estate agent.

How Long Does It Take to Sell a House in the UK?

Here’s a general breakdown:

Note: Timescales can vary significantly based on chain length, mortgage processing, and solicitor responsiveness.

Costs Involved When Selling a Property

Always ask for a detailed breakdown of all charges up front.

Should You Sell Before Buying?

There’s no right answer, but many sellers choose to sell first and rent short-term. Benefits include:

• A stronger negotiating position as a chain-free buyer

• More time to find your ideal next home

• Less pressure to accept low offers due to onward purchase pressure

However, you may move twice in a short span or have to rent temporarily.

Final Thoughts: Take Control of the Sale Process

Selling your home is a major financial step, but with preparation, the right professionals, and realistic expectations, it can be smooth and profitable.

✅ Get your paperwork and mortgage figures in order
✅ Price competitively and present your home well
✅ Choose trusted legal and estate agent support
✅ Stay informed throughout the process