Show/Hide Navigation Menu
Phone Handset
We're open 24/7 call us on
0800 078 9582
Or for local rates
0161 920 7901

Selling Your House? We Buy Any House! Ultimate Guide to Selling

Someone Please Buy My House Now

There are many reasons that our clients have for wanting to make a quick home sale. There are often financial factors at play – but a relationship gone sour or other personal issues may pressure people into seeking an immediate sale. We don't need to know all the particulars that relate to your individual situation if you don't want to tell us. That's not why we're here.

We are here to make you an immediate offer for your house or property regardless of where it is, or what condition it is in. We will buy property in London, England, Wales, or Scotland. Pretty much anywhere in the UK. If you need a quick turn around, and you're asking yourself "who can buy my home for cash?", then you've come to the right people. We'll work overtime to get the deal done and the pounds in your pocket. Possibly even within the week.

Fast Sale Homes have helped thousands of people just like you. We are a property buying company with over a decade of experience helping homeowners who need a quick sale.

Maybe you need to pay off some debt, or perhaps you're hoping to avoid repossession? Some of our clients were facing immediate relocation due to a job transfer, and needed to find a buyer fast. Others were taking the "less is more" approach to life, and were simply looking to downsize.

Whatever your reasons, reduce the toll that your current situation is taking on you and your loved ones. The faster you get your financial house in order, the quicker you can move on. The situation will not resolve itself. But with the help of our team of property and finance professionals, you will have a clear understanding of the home buying process and you need not face the challenge alone.

Over the following chapters, you'll find information on how to go about selling your home; advice for making the process as stress free as possible; how to attract potential buyers; the different avenues you can go down when contemplating a sale and their respective merits; and the property market explained.

The Home Buying Process

Deciding to purchase a home is perhaps the most important financial investment anyone ever makes. For that reason, it can sometimes take months to find a buyer for your house, as people assess their situation. Very few people rush into a quick purchase. The home buying process does of course differ depending on the individual, their family and personal circumstances. Most people go through the following steps however:

  1. Figuring Out What You Can Afford - This is possibly the most important part of the home buying process. It is important not to take on more debt than you are certain you can manage. There will always be opportunities to move into a bigger space - but for the right price.
  2. Figure Out Who Will Extend You A Mortgage - Finding a lender who is willing to work with you to get the terms and flexibility you require can be an arduous and long process. How much can you afford as a down payment? Generally speaking, a larger down payment means more bargaining power, and better rates. Often, then, buyers are forced to build up their savings before they can commit to their dream home.
  3. Finding The Perfect Property - Looking for a house, flat or other space that meets your needs can take months. If you're looking to buy, then consider making a list of the features that are most important to you and your family.
  4. Negotiating An Offer - This will take time! Most negotiations take weeks or longer even if an initial offer has been received. It is important to have someone who is familiar with the property market to do the tough negotiating on your behalf.
  5. The Legal Work; Conveyancing, Titles Etc. - There are various legal documents that must be obtained. There will be more information on this in Section 16.
  6. Signing And Completion - This is the final step when the keys and the money change hands.

In summary, prospective homebuyers rarely rush into a deal. This means that when you negotiate with individual buyers, the process can take several months or even up to a year. If you are selling with the help of an estate agent, things can get even more complicated, just when you had hoped they would get easier!

As estate agents work on commission, they will want to hold out for the highest possible offer. This strategy increases their slice of the proverbial "property purchase pie". Time is on their side. If you were hoping for a speedy sale, you'll probably be disappointed.

London Underground Sign

Preparing Your House For Sale

If you're planning on selling your house through an estate agent, you'll need to ensure you leave it in the best possible condition. Not only will this affect the price, but it also helps to attract buyers - the more prepared a house feels for new residents, the more interested investors will be willing to part with their money.

How can you do this? Are there any tips and tricks you can use to make a good impression? Here are a few from the experts:

  1. Repairs - You might find yourself feeling tempted to just leave any leaking taps, damp patches, or cracked tiles for the next inhabitant of your property to sort out, but you really shouldn't. If they're noticeable, these are obviously just more reasons for a potential buyer to be put off of the property; if they can pass without being spotted, then your buyer will be disgruntled after buying (to say the least). To get the best price you can, aim to leave the property in as good condition as you found it in, if not much better. If you can't afford to repair more serious parts - guttering, attic flooring - then you should declare them to ensure safety and fairness.
  2. Colours - You must pay attention to colour schemes when putting your house up for sale. With your personal belongings cleared away, more neutral colours will help the house to feel fresh and prepared for a new buyer. With neutral colours, you're helping to appeal to as many people as you can, increasing your chances of attracting a buyer.
  3. Gardens and Exteriors - Remember to pay attention to the outside of your property too. After all, this plays a vital part in your first impression. So, for best results, make the best of the garden you can: if it's paved, be sure the concrete is clean and de-weeded; if you have grass and flower beds, keep these neat and colourful. If you have a gate, you should be sure its hinges are oiled, and its paint is neat and fresh. Clean your windows, and make sure all doors are neat and clean.
  4. Out-dated Bathroom Suites - While it can be tempting at times to choose coloured bathroom suites to add a different element to your home, these can put potential buyers off - experts posit this can knock as much as £8,000 off your asking price. Basic white suites are the best, most attractive option, as they look fresh, clean, and suit any decor. Make sure these are spotless before any viewings, and add a fresh coat of paint if you need to.
  5. Dirty Kitchens and Bathrooms - This is an obvious point, but too easy to overlook: pay attention to your kitchens and bathrooms! Do more than a quick run around with anti-bacterial wipes - clean every nook and cranny, sand down any worn worktops if necessary, grout tiles, and paint the walls again if they look aged. For a lot of households, the kitchen is the heart of the home, and potential buyers will want to see a room that's clean, inviting, and rich with potential to make it their own.
  6. Bad Smells - A nasty odour can put a potential buyer off as soon as they cross the threshold. Whatever it is - rotten food in a kitchen bin, stale smoke, dirty pets - taking a slack approach to scents in your home can make a real difference to the way in which visitors perceive you and the property. Clean thoroughly, light scented candles, install socket-fresheners, and spray air fresheners at regular intervals. If you have dogs, be sure to wash them often; if you have cats, perhaps place their litter tray and food bowls outside, to allow them to air out.
  7. Cigarette Smoke - While not as many people still smoke inside their homes as they used to, this is one of the most off-putting smells, and certain precautions will need to be taken to remove the scent. Painting the house can remove the odour, and treat furniture with any odour removers, such as baking soda or crumpled-up newspapers.

Put yourself in the shoes of a potential buyer visiting the property for the first time, and perhaps pay attention to scents when you return to the house after returning home. What smells hit you? What emotions do they evoke? Do they make you feel welcome, or do they make you want to cover your nose? Freshly brewed coffee and oven-baked cakes are the most effective scents for attracting people inside from the high-street - and could make the difference between convincing someone to make a sale on your house.

Tips For Reducing Stress When Moving House

Selling your home can be an exciting time, but the process of moving is usually stressful – as anyone who's moved several times will attest! There seems to be an overwhelming amount of arrangements to make, people to contact, changes to confirm - it can often seem to go on and on.

However, careful planning can help to make this easier. We've put together a few tips, so read on for some valuable advice!

  1. Use Professional Removals Firms - While it can seem easier (and cheaper) to simply ask friends or family for help when moving, this can take longer, and pose more risk to your valuables: loading standard-sized cars up with your furniture and treasured possessions is often a complicated process. Professional removals firms specialise in safely carrying and loading personal belongings all day, every day. If you know someone who moved recently, ask if they can recommend a removal firm. Check online (http://www.removalreviews.co.uk) - there are many review sites now offering information and advice. Failing that, call around a few local firms to check their credentials and rates. Having someone else take care of the heavy lifting will make a busy day a little bit easier.
  2. Settle on a Specific Date - Choose a moving date as early as you can, and try as hard as possible to stick to it. With a set deadline in mind, you can set yourself tasks by day to be organised: set aside one evening to contact utilities companies; pick another for packing your kitchenware; use another day to pack clothes and valuables. By giving yourself as much time and preparation as you can, you can make moving much easier.
  3. Hire Cleaners - If you know you have to spend the day after moving into a new place cleaning, you'll have it hanging over you (unless you enjoy that kind of thing!). However, if you hire a professional cleaner to spruce the new place up first, you'll be saved the task and also get to enjoy a clean, fresh new home as soon as you arrive!
  4. No Kids, No Pets - If you have children or pets, perhaps see if a friend or relative can look after them on moving day. Not only are they likely to find the process a lot to handle, they might also get in the way. Try to get the new place set up and feeling more like home before you bring them in - that way, moving will feel less overwhelming, and they'll be able to get settled a little bit quicker.

Tips For A Successful Downsize

Many people who sell their home do so to downsize. As we get older, and our children move out, we may find we're left with a house that is too big and too expensive to keep to ourselves. With one or two extra bedrooms to maintain, housework to do all by ourselves, and bills to pay without support from anyone else, we can easily begin to feel fed up with the house we've lived in for years.

So, older couples and individuals choose to downsize, to save themselves money, time, and effort. This can be a hard process emotionally, particularly if you've spent many years in the property, building a family and many happy memories along the way. However, it is often for the best, and can help you start on a new, exciting journey.
If you're planning to downsize, follow our tips to make the transition a little bit easier:

  1. Account for Space - When you find a new property you like, measure each room and compare it to the same rooms at your house. For example, measure the amount of space available in both living rooms - will you be able to take all your furniture with you? If not - which is likely - you'll have to pick and choose which pieces stay and which go. This can be difficult, but you should focus on functionality and need. Keeping sentimental items is obviously essential – but if you take too much with you, you'll feel cluttered and uncomfortable.
  2. Work our your Timings - Don't let yourself get into the position of having too much to do in too little time. Start getting rid of pieces you can't take with you early, to lessen the impact - as soon as you decide to move, try making a list of items to go and items to keep.
  3. iRecycle and Pass on - Don't throw good, functional items away: if anything can be re-used or recycled, pass it on to a charity shop, a friend or relative, or even sell it. Car boot sales and auction websites are a great way to earn fair money for your unwanted items. Try to cut down on unnecessary waste.
  4. Don't Take on Too Much - This is vital: never take on more than you can cope with. If you need help with any physical aspects of moving - lifting furniture, cleaning etc. - then be sure to ask a friend or relative. On an emotional level, don't make yourself get rid of pieces you want to keep just because you're worried you might not have enough space: if you really want to keep something, no matter how big or small, just try to accommodate it in your new place as best you can.

The Housing Market: A Financial Minefield

Even if you take all this advice onboard, the housing market can be still be confusing and overwhelming to those looking to sell. Whenever we watch the news, read a paper, or check out our favourite online news pages, we're bombarded with statistics and figures about the market's rising house prices, inflation, forecasts, and a host of other bits and pieces we may struggle to understand. We hear conflicting stories about ‘how there's never been a better time to sell', and about ‘how this is the worst period in history for buyers and sellers'... this can make anyone with an interest to buy or sell feel downhearted, as if their only choice is to sell at a loss through a long, miserable process.

You're likely to have many questions: How can you know what money you stand to make? Can you trust estate agencies when they offer estimates and claim to be able to find the perfect buyer at the price you want? Well, each agency is different, but anyone with any experience of dealing with them will attest to how frustrating the traditional buying and selling process can be. External problems can also swell and overshadow the entire situation: if you're part of a chain, the person in your new home could find themselves unable to move, causing further delays; you could find yourself limited to just one offer from an interested buyer, only to find them unwilling to reach anywhere near your price; you might find your estate agency isn't the best match for yourself and your property, and then need to actually switch to another and begin the process again.

When you sell for cash, however, you can sidestep many of these problems and make money in a quick, easy way. All you have to do is trust us to make a deal with your best interests at heart - we want to buy your property for the fairest price we can. You'll be free to move on within a month, with a huge chunk of money available to spend exactly as you'd like! Can you imagine a better feeling than avoiding all the hassle that so many other sellers complain about?

Old Street

Will You Find Selling Easy?

It's not just estate agents, chains and other hassles that make moving so hard - you may have years and years' worth of memories stored up within a property. Perhaps it's the place you first lived with a beloved partner, or raised your children, or shared with other family members. Perhaps it's the only place you've ever lived, passed on to you from parents. Whatever the reasons, emotional attachments to properties can be incredibly hard to let go of, and may leave you struggling to make that leap.

If this is the case, then it might make the prospect of selling the home almost too difficult to bear. This doesn't have to stop you in your tracks, however - you should focus on the benefits selling up will bring, and the opportunities lying ahead. You should remember that the property itself is just that - a piece of property, with no inherent emotional value. You might have created memories there, but they can be taken with you. All you'll be leaving behind is the shell. So, though it's hard, try to focus on that, and gradually detach yourself emotionally from the house. Perhaps take lots of pictures of the place as it is now, as you've made it and want to remember it, and place them in an album or special keepsake box: you can make these into a treasured collection and take them wherever you go. Perhaps write a letter from yourself to the house, thanking it for all the good times you've enjoyed there, and articulate other thoughts and feelings this way - it'll make you feel much better.

Redecorating and changing the house's layout around before you move out can also help make the transition much easier. By doing this, you'll be helping to separate your heart and mind from the property - if it already starts to look like someone else's house, then you'll prepare yourself better for the knowledge that it will soon belong to another family. So, try a new colour scheme, a new scent for each room, rearrange any furniture that's staying - do whatever you can to make it easier for yourself and your family.

Why Is Selling A Home So Stressful

A recent survey has shown that dealing within the property market, either buying or selling, is one of the most distressing experiences in life. The main stressors involve dealing with solicitors, complicated paperwork, anxiety over deals going sour at the last moment, being on top of your estate agent, keeping your home clean for viewers, and those very viewers going in and out of your home, disrupting your life. All of this stress becomes more anxiety provoking than the stress of losing your job!

In fact, selling your home can be nerve-wracking than becoming a first-time parent or planning your wedding, both major life events.

The most stress-inducing people involved in home selling? Those are the solicitors most people employ to aid in their sale. Others found estate brokers to be the main source of their stress. Many confessed that having to keep the home clean for viewings by potential buyers was even more stressful than either a solicitor or estate agent. Those prospective buyers often cancel at the last minute, after you've gone to great lengths to make your home sparkle, and made plans to be out of the house while the hopeful buyers took a look around. Also upsetting are those potential buyers who make insultingly lowball offers on your home, making you wonder if you will ever be able to sell your home for what it's truly worth. Other stress inducers occur when you have a buyer in place, only to have him back out just before the deal will go through. This can also occur if the buyer's finances are not up to snuff and lenders refuse to let the transaction occur.

Let's face it: there is a lot of money at stake when you need to sell your home. The stress factors are high, your phone may be constantly ringing, a surveyor must come and appraise your property, and your lawyer or agent can be impossible to contact at times when you need them.

The Buyers Have It Easier Than The Sellers

If you need to sell your home, let's hope it is located in a large city like London. Sales in London have seen a small ripple in sales of late, though it can still take many weeks for a home to actually sell, even in the city. If your house is located a couple of hours outside of London, do not expect this ripple of activity to reach your area as well. Still, even if your property is located in a prime area where sales are moving a bit more forward, the stress levels of selling are much higher than for those who are buying. Plus, it can take months to actually see your sale go through to the end, with lawyers dragging their heels and estate agents difficult to reach.

Buying a home can be stressful, indeed, but it is also exciting to most buyers. Their main stress factors involve financial questions of affordability and dealing with paperwork through their solicitors. If they've sat down with their solicitor to talk about finances and have a decent estate agent, their anxiety can quickly turn into glee at the prospect of owning their own home. It's exciting to be the one viewing potential new homes and not be on the other end, hoping those looking will present an offer to buy. Purchasing a home does have its stress points, but in the end, it is a much less difficult emotional transaction than selling is.

Being on the other end of that deal as a seller can have you wringing your hands in worry. What is it that sellers are so anxious and worried about that makes selling a home so stressful? Sellers worry that:

  • They won't get the price for their home that they need or desire
  • No serious offers will come through at all
  • If they do get a decent offer, they will be caught in a property chain
  • Their home will take too long to sell, and they need their money now

These are just a few of the worries that home sellers must contend with. Couple these fears with having to keep the house clean and ready to be viewed at all times, and there's no wonder that selling a home is one of the top stress-inducing life experiences people face these days.

Who Can You Sell Your House To?

You need to find a buyer for your house, and quickly. But who will buy your house fast? There are several potential avenues to go down. As aforementioned, there are estate agents who will have you sign a contract, and then try and get you the best possible deal. Home auctions have become increasingly popular, and some brave souls give home-selling a go on their own. Depending on the time frame you are dealing with, it is possible to get a more cash from the deal if you're prepared to be patient. Sometimes time is not available to spare however. Knowing your options is always better than not knowing. Let's explore some possibilities:

  1. Selling Through An Estate Agent - An estate agent can help you find a buyer for your home if you are in no hurry to sell. Indeed, you might be able to hold out for a better offer if you make use of an agent's professional services. Estate agencies have access to a vast network of advertising people and websites, and decades of experience in the property market. You should be aware that it often takes several months for a property transaction to complete however. In the UK the average time that elapses from listing to complete is about 3 months.

    The services an estate agent will provide do not come cheap. You can expect to pay at least 3% commission on the sale of your house. There will also be hundreds, if not thousands, of pounds in legal fees that you will have to settle as well. Title searches, property surveys and so on take both time and money.

    Most estate agencies will have you sign a contract, usually about six months in duration. Check the terms carefully to make sure you understand the commitment you are making. In most cases, you are no longer free to sell the house to anyone other than a buyer that the estate agent has found.

    During the hunt for a buyer, an estate agent will assist you in taking photographs and conducting viewings. However, it is your responsibility to keep your home clean, tidy, and ready for visitors at any time.

  2. Finding a Private Buyer - Some of our clients have tried to find a buyer for their house on their own and struggled. Decades spent working with the UK property market has taught our team at Fast Sale Homes many valuable lessons. We've made mistakes, learned from them, and are a stronger firm today because of them. If you have experience buying and selling properties, then a DIY sale may be a viable option for you to consider. Selling a house without help is not necessarily cheaper however. In order to raise the kind of awareness that an estate agent can, it is often necessary to spend cash on marketing expenses. Word of mouth alone will not get your house sold. Moreover, expect taking a hands-on-approach to the sale to take up a lot of your precious time.
  3. Going to Auction - A much quicker and simpler way to sell your property would be to go through an auction house. However, selling your house at auction comes with major disadvantages. Most people at auctions are looking to get a bargain so you can expect your house to be sold at a fraction of its actual cost. Auctioneers also demand their fees upfront, so you have to pay up regardless of a sale or not.
  4. Selling To a Property Buying Company - Fast Sale Homes is one of dozens of property buying companies that exist in the UK. If you decide to contact a private company that is willing to make an offer on your house, there are a few checks you should perform. Before committing to any company, be sure that they belong to recognized business associations that demand high standards of customer service and accountability from their members. The FSB (Federation of Small Businesses) is one such organization. Naturally, we at Fast Sale Homes have been members since the start.

We are happy to field your questions and provide you with reliable, honest answers. Our years of experience buying properties of all sorts, means that when you partner with us to sell, you'll be doing so with 100% confidence in our abilities. Feel free to call us 24/7 on 0800 078 9582.

How A House Buying Company Can Help You

  1. Viewings and Decorating - As aforementioned, an estate agent may suggest that you “stage” your home to get it in good shape for viewings. Staging a home means updating it and making it appear homier or larger so it's attractive to buyers. It also can mean money escaping from your pocket to pay for paint, painters, or replacing an out-dated sink.

    When you sell your home to a home buying company, like Fast Sale Homes, you don't have to worry about any of this! In fact, professional homebuyers don't even have to take a look at the inside of your house before making you a purchase offer. No need to redecorate, paint or hide your clutter. We will purchase your home no matter what condition it is in! You give us a call on the phone, answer some basic questions about your home, and within 24 hours you will receive a cash offer on your home. No viewings, no cleaning up, no fixing up, no redecorating, no money spent! The stress and outlay of money are gone.

  2. Solicitors' Fees - When you sell a home, you usually have to pay fees to a solicitor. And, as you've read earlier, lawyers are also a main cause of stress when selling a home. When you let Fast Sale Homes purchase your home, we pay the solicitor's fees for you. Their team of lawyers will begin the sales process immediately and settle any mortgages or outstanding loans you may have on the estate. If there are any surplus proceeds after the transaction, they will be deposited into your bank account. This is a huge advantage of selling your home directly to our home buying team.
  3. Quick Sale and Save Money - It can take quite a few months for your home to sell. With Fast Sale Homes, your sale will be completed within one week to one month! You can wash your hands of your property and be on your way. No hassle, no stress. Plus, you will be offered a quick price on your home within 24 hours of your phone call to us. Your offer will be up to 85% of the true market value of your home. This is roughly the same amount you can expect receive if you had gone through your transaction using an estate agent, after deducting their fee, the legal fees, and the time and money spent on staging your home.

    Your estate agent will price your home for you, usually at 5-10% higher than its true market value in order to get the listing from you. It sounds as though you will be receiving a very good price for your house. But when it comes down to people actually making bids, they will generally bid much below that asking price. In today's poor sales market, prices are much lower than estate agents are hoping to receive. You will end up having to lower your asking price after a few weeks. Once you have lowered your price, your property becomes less valuable in the eyes of potential buyers. This begins a vicious cycle, whereby you will ultimately receive bids that are perhaps 15-20% lower than your original stated price.

    We will purchase your home for up to 85% of your home's current market value, with no fees attached at all. You will be taking in just about the same amount of money as you would have, had you listed with an estate agency. However, you will not be paying any legal fees, any agency fees, any survey costs, or home redesigning fees. The big added plus is here is that you will sell your home extremely fast, too!

    Working through an estate agent can take months before your home is sold. That means gangs of people walking through your door to have a look, with perhaps none or just a small handful of them actually making a bid. After a few months' time, you may be getting desperate enough to accept a lowball offer on your home. This can take about six months out of your life, when selling to us will take just a week or 30 days in total.

  4. Privacy - When you place your home on the realty market, an agent will put a large sign on your property, letting the world know that you need to sell your home. There will also be adverts in the papers and on-line. Strangers will walk through your rooms, seeing everything you own and how you live.

    When you sell through a home buying company, your privacy is kept intact. There is no sign or advertisements placed anywhere. No one will be traipsing through your rooms to invade your privacy. The sale is quiet and personalised. No one knows you are selling your home unless you tell them!

Lighthouse

Home Buyer Companies: Who Should I Choose?

"So, you want to buy my house? Then be prepared to answer my questions. I want a fair price, and I may not have time on my side, but I will not be exploited. I am your customer, and I deserve to be treated with respect and consideration. Will you work with me to negotiate a deal that will get us both what we want and need? How do I know?"
There are many property-buying companies out there. In fact, there are more than 100 UK firms that offer sellers a "quick house sale". But which ones can you trust? What do you need to know before you place your home into a company's hands? How do you know that your fair share of the proceeds of the sale will make their way back into your pocket? Here's some of what you need to know about the companies that buy your house.

  1. What You Need To Look Out For - Always, always, read the fine print of any contract or sale agreement that you are about to sign! If a property buying company is offering you a deal that seems too good to be true, it probably is. Never allow yourself to be in such a hurry to unload your house that you forget the basics of business.

    Sadly, there will always be individuals and businesses that are willing to take advantage of another person's financial difficulties, bad luck or personal loss. At these times, you are vulnerable, even if you cannot bring yourself to admit it. It is essential that you deal with established, reliable companies and finance professionals. You are under pressure to sell your house, but there are hundreds of thousands of pounds at stake.

    Never believe that a verbal assurance of a deal has any real meaning or weight when it comes to negotiating a property sale. Get everything in writing, or do not commit. Any arrangement that you are not 100% confident in should not be agreed to.

  2. What You Need To See - Customer testimonials. Online reviews. Look for proof that the property buying company you are considering taking on as a partner do what they say they do. Look for certification logos from reputable organizations that can attest to the reliability and reputation of the firm that is making you an offer on your home.

    The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) is one organization that small businesses and the self-employed can join. The FSB works on behalf of small businesses to help them gain access to the markets traditionally controlled by big businesses and big banks. The FSB also works with the public to ensure that customers are treated with the professionalism and respect they deserve. The Fast Sale Homes team have been long-time members of the FSB.

  3. What Fees Should I Expect? - Some firms, like Fast Sale Homes, will take care of all legal fees and costs associated with their purchase of your property. Others may advertise that no additional fees will be charged, but then bury them in the fine print of the contract you sign. Never accept any verbal promises! Always read the details of any contract you sign, particularly when hundreds of thousands of pounds are on the line!

  4. How Do I Know Which Firms I Can Trust? - The Office of Fair Trading (OFT) reported in 2013 that the quick house sale sector generated over 900 million pounds in revenue. While this represented around 1% of the total UK property sales that year, the industry is rapidly expanding. The OFT report said that while most property buying companies were "open and fair" in their dealing with their clients, there were several complaints against a few fly by night firms.

    This underscores the importance of choosing a well-established firm that can provide evidence of their commitment to superior customer service. Don't be afraid to ask for references from past clients, and a complimentary initial consultation. Any company that is worth doing business with will recognise you as a potential client and work within your means and schedule. They should be able to provide you with a free and fair initial offer for the property you are planning to sell.

    Before you take the next step, you may want to take advantage of Local Property Buyer's free online valuation service. That will tell you what we can offer you on the spot for your property. It might provide a good starting point for deciding how to go about any future potential sale.

  5. What Do The Experts Have To Say? - Be wary of any firm that is unwilling to do any of the above. Kate Faulkner is the head of a property advice site, www.propertychecklists.co.uk. She receives frequent questions about firms operating in the quick house sale sector. Her advice?

    "Look for businesses that have been around for a long time. They know they have to look after customers long-term and there is an important distinction between those companies and a broker looking for a quick sale"

    Fast Sale Homes has helped thousands of our clients to sell their property quickly, discreetly, and with as little stress as possible. If there is anything we can do to assist you, or there are any questions you need answered, call us anytime on 0800 078 9582.

We'll Buy Your House Now: How Fast Sale Homes Works

Our customers are looking for a fair price for their home, and the majority need a quick turnaround. We've made it simple for you to get an online estimate of the price we can offer you for your home, regardless of its location or condition. Make use of our free online valuation software. You are under no obligation to accept the offer, and we will not contact you unless you specifically request it.

Simply plug in a few numbers and pieces of information, and you'll receive our offer in under a minute. We just need to know where your house is located, your full name and phone number, and a few other bits and pieces of information. If nothing else, you will have an honest, no obligation idea of what we would pay you for your house. You are free to explore all your options. We will be here if you need us.

Here is a look at what you can expect when you decide to get in touch:

  1. Contact us online via email, or call us directly at 0800 078 9582 (mobiles can use 0161 920 7901). A member of our team will call you directly within 24 hours to make sure we have the most up to date information regarding your house.
  2. We will make you a guaranteed offer to buy your property on the spot.
  3. Should you accept, we will immediately arrange to have two independent property surveys conducted. We will pay for these. There are no fees involved when you deal with Fast Sale Homes.
  4. Our solicitors will proceed with the sale process. They will take care of all title issues, and settle any mortgages or loans that are outstanding on the property. This is part of the complete home-buying service that we provide. You will not be on the hook for any legal fees whatsoever.
  5. Our team will complete the sale as quickly as possible, often in as little as a week. The cash will be directly deposited into the account of your choosing. If you prefer a cheque, we would be happy to arrange to have one drawn up. You are our client, and we will do everything in our power to accommodate your needs.

It's worth noting that should you be able to wait a few weeks for full payment, you may be eligible for a discount that could net you even more cash from the sale. Likewise, if you are satisfied with our services, we offer cash bonuses for referrals that you make to friends who may also be looking to sell.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here's some answers to some commonly asked questions about the way Fast Sale Homes work:

  1. Who Is Purchasing My Property? - We are! We've built up the cash resources to be able to make you an immediate offer on your property. We buy property in the UK and we don't care where it is located, nor are we concerned with the condition that it is in. What we care about is getting you a fast, free valuation. We will make you a guaranteed offer and give you as much time as you need to make a decision.

    If you decide to accept our offer, we will immediately arrange to have two separate, independent surveys conducted at our cost. Our solicitors will get to work with the rest of our team to get the sale process started, and keep it moving along.

  2. How Long Does It Take To Get My Money? - Many transactions can be completed within 7 days, all within 28 days. If you can wait a little longer for your money, we may be able to offer you a cash bonus. We also are delighted when we receive referrals from previous customers. And we pay cash back to previous clients who introduce us to their friends and family!

  3. How Will I Be Paid? - You will be paid cash the same day of completion. We can have the funds transferred directly into your account, or can write you a cheque, depending on what it most convenient for you.

  4. Who Pays For The Surveys, Solicitors, And Other Fees? - There are no fees for you to pay if you choose to sell your property to us. We have our own team of solicitors, and we guarantee every offer that we make. You will receive exactly the amount you were promised, and not a penny less. It's one of the biggest advantages that we have over estate agents.

    Choosing to sell through an estate agency means you will be paying all your own legal fees, plus a hefty commission (with VAT!) to the agent who handles the sale. You will wait months for a deal to be completed. Roughly one third of all sales in the UK fall through when using an estate agent. Do you really want to get used to months of dashed hopes and disappointment? Can you afford to?

  5. Are There Any Guarantees? - Absolutely. Once we have made you an offer, you are guaranteed to receive the cash as quickly as possible. If you have any doubts about our commitment to your complete satisfaction, read some of our customer reviews or watch some of the video testimonial available on our website. Our property professionals are available all day, every day to address your concerns. Simply call 0800 078 9582.

What Will You Do With All Your Liberated Cash?

Without a doubt, one of the most enjoyable aspects of selling your property for fast cash is the freedom you get in return. You might have a plan in mind, or you might be waiting until you have the money ready to spend before you decide on a set path. Whatever you want to do, that's fine with us - after all, it's your money! We're just helping you get it faster and easier than any estate agent can.

For some people, selling their home for cash is a way to clear debts. Many of us know, unfortunately, how stressful and upsetting debts can be: they hang over you constantly, causing misery and despair, leaving you wondering how or when you'll be able to clear them. The threat of repossession can linger like a bad smell, even placing strain on the entire family - and it's not surprising: the loss of a beloved home is a dire situation too many people face now. However, selling your home for cash can help you free up the cash you need to pay off your debts, and help you win back the freedom to live without fearing more phone calls and more letters demanding money.

For other people, however, the decision to sell for cash is down to different reasons. A lot of older couples, for example, sell their properties for cash so they can downsize into a smaller property. This is typically done when children have grown up and moved out to start their own lives and families, leaving the parents in a house that could be too big for them to maintain and an unnecessary expense. Having the cash quickly means downsizing is not a long process - you can simply find a place you like, sell your current property and move into your new one within several weeks. The cash can either be used to help buy the new property, or it can be used to pay a rental deposit and years' worth of rent and bills, as well as lots of new furnishings and treats. Again, the key word here is freedom - something you may not have fully embraced for a while! Selling your home can also liberate money to pass on as inheritance - this is quicker, easier, and less hassle than leaving a property behind for loved ones, and gives you the freedom to choose when and how much they receive in cash.

Of course, for other people, that freedom may be even further-reaching - you may be selling your property to start a new, exciting phase of your life elsewhere. If you plan to travel the world, imagine how far tens of thousands of pounds could take you! It could fund years and years of exploration and sightseeing. You might even have some left over to start renting somewhere new - wherever you decide to make your home!

You Can Help Us Make It Happen Faster

If your paperwork and documentation is not in order, it may throw a wrench in our property buying works! Here's a list of some of what will be required when we purchase your house, flat, or farm. If you don't have it all, or may have misplaced some papers, don't worry. We have our own team of solicitors that can help you hunt down everything you need to quickly seal the deal.

You'll need:

  1. Title Deeds and Sundry Searches - If you don't have copies of these, your Mortgage Company or The Land Registry can assist you in obtaining copies. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you might have regarding titles, deeds, and so forth. If your property is leasehold, not freehold, additional information will be required. Don't worry! We can help with that too.

  2. Building and/or Planning Permissions, Approvals, Plans, etc. - It's a good idea to keep any and all documentation regarding any construction or renovations that have been done to your house.

  3. CORGI Gas Safe Papers - You'll need to provide proof that your boiler has been regularly serviced and properly maintained. Always use a service man or woman who holds a valid Gas Safe Register Card. If you can't find your CORGI papers, contact British Gas or Gas Safe to have your boiler inspected, and a new certificate issued.

  4. FENSA - Your FENSA documents show that the windows and doors of your house are double-glazed, safe, and have been properly installed. If you have lost these papers, FENSA can issue a replacement for around 10 pounds. Visit their website for details. http://www.fensa.co.uk/asp/certificate.asp

  5. Mortgage Information and Documents - You'll be asked to provide all the details of your mortgage on the property. We'll need to know the name of the institution that holds the mortgage, your account number, the amount that is outstanding on the loan, and any other debt that has been secured using your house.

  6. Insurance Policies and Information - You will have taken out insurance policies on your property, and you'll need to have all the coverage information available for inspection when you sell.

    If you don't have any of this documentation on hand, don't panic. Give us a call and our staff will help you find what you are missing.

Stopping Repossession

Life can be unpredictable. In one moment, everything is beautiful and moving along exactly as you had planned for it to. In the next, something unexpected occurs and those perfectly laid plans fall apart. There is a stigma attached to finding yourself down on your luck, as though there was something you could have done to prevent it. But the truth is that there are many events in life that can pull you down unexpectedly-you cannot, and should not, live your life in constant anticipation of the worst.

"I became sick quite suddenly and haven't been able to work . . ."
"My company lost a lawsuit and had to downsize; I lost my job . . ."
"The divorce was sudden and unexpected. I've been trying to sell the house through an estate agent without luck . . ."
"It all looked great on paper at the time. But the cost of living has risen faster than my wages, and now with the children . . ."

We've all experiences stories as above and they're a mixture of comedy, drama, and the tragic. There is no need to feel ashamed about finding yourself in a similar situation - many of us have been there and most of us are just a single turn of event from finding ourselves where you are right now. Know that your struggles are no indication that you are flawed or have done something wrong.

Finding yourself at risk of house repossession is not easy. Perhaps the most difficult part of finding yourself in this situation is gathering up the will to fight and stop repossession of your home. Going up against a large financial institution to avoid house repossession can seem impossible for you to do, even if you have help. However, there are several ways you can stop home repossession. One of these ways is to opt for a quick sale on your home before the bank takes possession.

So, how does repossession work?

  1. Falling into Arrears - Falling into arrears on your mortgage means your lender has certain rules to follow - they are obligated by law to do this. Before they can pursue repossession, your lender must offer clear and honest communication, and make sure you understand every step of the process. They have to provide information on:

    • The remaining balance to be paid on your mortgage
    • The total amount of arrears
    • The remaining charges or interest to be paid

    Your lender must be willing to discuss the reasons you fell into arrears, your current financial status, and potential options for repaying said arrears. If there is no viable alternative, then the lender can start the repossession process.

  2. Repossessing Your Home - After a lender repossess your home, the law requires them to sell it for the best price they can get within reason - the property will normally enter the market at the soonest date possible. The lender should seek independent advice on reaching the desired price, and once the property is sold, any surplus amount will go back to the original homeowner (after the lender has taken their cut).

    Should the sale fail to bring in enough money to pay off the full amount you owe, however, you will still owe the lender money - this remaining fee is known as a ‘shortfall'. Until the property reaches sale and the shortfall is paid off, interest will continue to accrue on the mortgage loan. This is, of course, extremely difficult for anyone to have to go though. Unfortunately, it happens often.

    However, in Scotland, there is a ‘mortgage to shared equity' scheme, which allows struggling homeowners with at least 25 percent equity in their property to reduce the level of secured debt while keeping a stake in their home. This can be a big help for some.

Repossession: What Next?

When you purchased your home, you were likely filled with all the hopes and dreams of the average homeowner. You purchased the home because it was part of your vision for the future. However, life frequently goes off script and some of those unscripted moments can cause us immense hardship.

If you have found yourself facing the possibility of house repossession, the time to act is now. Time is of the essence when you need to stop repossession. The best option for many individuals facing the possibility of repossession is a quick sale of their home. This will stop the bank from repossessing it assist in paying off or paying down some of their debts.

  1. The Bank has Started the Process of Repossessing My Home: How Much Time Do I Have? - There are laws which outline the exact process of home repossession in the UK. This means that you should know exactly what to expect heading into the process.

    The first step is receiving a notice from the lending institution that you have fallen behind on your payments and they are initiating the proceedings for repossessing your home. This notice must inform you of the institution's intent as well as the amount you currently owe. Once this notice is received, you are able to contact the bank requesting a change in payment terms, which they must consider-though they are under no obligation to accept. They will respond to your offer within 10 days and, if they reject it, explain their reasoning for doing so as required by law. It is possible that they lending institution will then make a counter offer; if they do, they are required to give you a reasonable amount of time to consider it, though "reasonable amount of time" is not legally defined.

    Once you receive this notice, it is vital that you start looking into your options. Time is of the essence in these cases-the sooner you are able to act, the better off you are. Once the bank decides to initiate court action, you will have 15 days from receipt of the written notice before they begin proceedings. These 15 days can be the best time to take action, as it can prevent the case from going to court.

    Once the proceedings have started, you will receive a deference form from the government. You use this form to explain why you think your lending institution should stop house repossession in your case. You must submit this form within 14 days. While this may not permanently stop the repossession of your home, it could buy you the time you need to investigate your other options.

    Your repossession hearing will take place before a judge in his or her chambers. If you make it to this point, chances are good that the judge will rule in favour of the lending institution; it is best if you never make it this far. If the judge decides to issue a repossession order, you have 28 days to comply and leave your home.

  2. The Quick Sale Process - While it might seem intimidating – especially if all you really know about home selling involves estate agents – the quick sale process is incredibly simple. To begin, you just need to research the various companies available to you. Critically examine them for trustworthiness, guarantees, and speed. Once you have done so, select the company that feels best and contact them regarding the sale of your home. Out of all the steps in the process, the research part is probably the most complicated and crucial.

    Upon contacting the company, they will quickly call you to learn more about your home. Simply make sure you have the basic details ready to relay to the representative. Based on the details you provide, an initial offer will be made. This offer will be kept so long as the survey of your home does not reveal anything unexpected. If problems are found, the offer will be adjusted accordingly.

    Once that step is settled, the company will purchase your home and get the cash to you within a short amount of time. The best companies will be able to get it done within 7-28 days. Then your home is no longer at risk of being repossessed by the bank and being sold at rock-bottom price.

  3. Using the Funds - Once the funds are in hand, you have no further obligations to the quick sale company. You are free to contact your lending institution to pay off your debt. You are then able to go off and live a debt free life.

  4. What to do if Your Debt is Bigger Than Your Profit - If your debt has grown to be larger than what your home is worth, you will not be able to pay off your debt to the lending institution in full. However, that doesn't mean all is lost. By paying off the majority of your debt, you will be able to make lower payments on the remaining debt. These payments will be easier for you to handle and easier on your credit rating.

  5. Isn't it Safer to Sell Through an Estate Agent? - It is natural to feel a bit sceptical of the quick sale process at first. After all, we have all been taught that if it is too good to be true, it probably is. However, especially in cases of home repossession, the riskier option is going through an estate agent. This isn't to say that they are untrustworthy and trying to con you-it is just that the way they work is at odds with preventing repossession. The goal of selling your home in this situation is to get the money to pay off your debts and stop the proceedings. Even if an estate agent is able to quickly sell your home-however unlikely that may be-the fees associated with the process cut into the money you need to pay the lender. Plus, the chances are extremely high that they will not be able to sell your home before the lending institution takes possession.

In short, no, it isn't safer.

CHOOSE Fast Sale Homes BECAUSE WE BUY ANY HOUSE

We have the experience, reliability and financial resources to ensure that you receive the best customer service in the property buying business. For over a decade, Robby, Edward and their team have been helping UK residents out of financial difficulty by providing immediate property purchasing services.

Our goal is to have the deal done in under a week. Papers signed, stamped, dated and delivered, and the proceeds from the sale deposited in your account. When you deal with Fast Sale Homes, there is no danger of the deal falling through at the last minute, leaving you and your loved ones in the lurch. We guarantee it. Once we've made the offer and received the paperwork, the deal is done.

National statistics have shown that one third of sales fall apart when negotiated by estate agents. While you may be able to find a buyer willing to pay a slightly higher price, you'll be waiting months for it to happen. You will pay a commission fee of up to 3% + VAT to your agent and will be locked into a contract. Worried about the cost of legal fees? You should be. You're on the hook for those fees too.

We buy any house and we charge no fees, and we have our own trusted team of legal experts to help you with the considerable documentation that must be provided. There will be no need to have strangers traipsing through your home against your will, as there will be no viewings. We will buy your house quickly, quietly and grant you, our client, the respect and discretion that have become our hallmark.

The faster you take control of the situation, the quicker you'll see results. Call one of our team members today to arrange for an immediate, free consultation. You are under no obligation to sell to us, and we will be happy to discuss the other selling options available to you. Call us on 0800 078 9582 now, or go online for a complimentary and confidential property valuation on the spot. We hope to hear from you soon!

Champagne Bottle

We Will Buy
Your House
Please fill in this form for a fast quote.
Arrow pointing to form
Icon
Get Your
Free Quote
By submitting your details you are NOT committed to sell your house

What our customers have to say

Keith

Fast Sale Homes pretty much saved my life. I was under tremendous pressure facing repossession. I could not sleep, my family was suffering, and the stress was starting to over come me. Fast Sale Homes bought my house in just over a week and I settled my debts. My family and I are now putting our lives back together and moving on. I am not sure I would have made it without Ed and the team.

Keith, Hull
Bernadette

My husband and I found our dream retirement home in Somerset, however we just couldn't find a buyer for our long term home in Barnsley. We approached Fast Sale Homes, and found ourselves ready to move and complete on both the purchase and the sale in under a month. The Fast Sale Homes team were super helpful and professional. I would recommend them to anyone.

Bernadette, Somerset
Parker

The team at Fast Sale Homes helped me through a difficult time in my life. They helped minimise the time it took and offered me a fair deal, all the while being polite and professional. Thank you Fast Sale Homes.

Parker, Stoke-On-Trent