Buyer & Seller Service Guide
This guide explains how our agency works — how we help you buy or sell, what our fees are, how a transaction runs from first offer to closing, what documents you will need, and the questions clients ask most. It is a reference document; there is nothing to fill in or return. Figures and timings below are typical — the numbers that bind us are the ones stated in your signed agency agreement.
Section 1 — How We Help You Buy
- Discovery. We sit down to understand your budget, must-haves, and timeline, and agree how we will work together.
- Financing. We point you to trusted lenders so you have a pre-approval in hand before you make an offer — sellers take pre-approved buyers seriously.
- Search & viewings. We shortlist properties that fit, arrange viewings, and give you an honest read on each one, including what the listing does not say.
- Offer & negotiation. When you find the right home we prepare the offer, advise on price and terms, and negotiate on your behalf.
- Due diligence. We coordinate the survey, inspections, and legal checks, and keep everyone moving toward the dates in the contract.
- Closing & handover. We see the paperwork through to completion, confirm funds and keys, and stay available after you move in.
Section 2 — How We Help You Sell
- Valuation. We assess your property against recent local sales and current demand, and recommend an asking price that sells without leaving money on the table.
- Preparation. We advise on repairs, decluttering, and staging that lift the sale price, and arrange professional photography and floor plans.
- Marketing. We list across the major portals, our own channels, and our buyer database, and market to the audience most likely to buy your home.
- Viewings & feedback. We host viewings, qualify buyers, and report back after each one so you always know where things stand.
- Offers & negotiation. We present every offer, advise on which to accept, and negotiate the best price and terms for you.
- Progression to close. We chase the chain, liaise with solicitors and surveyors, and keep the sale on track through to completion.
Section 3 — Commission & Fees
Ranges below are typical. Your agency agreement states the exact fee that applies to you. We never add surprise charges.
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| Percentage of the final sale price, agreed up front | On completion — no sale, no fee |
| Flat fee or percentage of purchase price, per the buyer agreement | On completion of the purchase |
| Percentage of the first year’s rent, or a fixed tenant-find fee | |
Professional photography & floor plans | Included in the selling fee on most listings | |
Premium marketing (video, staging, print) | Optional add-on, quoted in writing before we begin | |
Section 4 — Transaction Timeline
From an accepted offer to keys in hand, a typical transaction runs as below. Chains, financing, and legal searches can lengthen any stage.
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|---|
| Terms agreed and confirmed in writing; solicitors instructed | |
| Property surveyed, mortgage valuation done, legal searches ordered | |
| Lender issues the formal offer; contract details finalised | |
| Contracts signed and the deposit paid; the deal becomes binding | |
| Balance transferred, ownership registered, keys handed over | |
Section 5 — Documents You Will Need
- Photo identification and proof of current address
- Mortgage pre-approval or proof of funds for a cash purchase
- Recent bank statements and proof of deposit source
- Solicitor or conveyancer details
- Photo identification and proof of ownership (title deeds or registration)
- Energy performance certificate, where required
- Guarantees, warranties, and permits for any work done on the property
- Recent utility, service-charge, and property-tax statements
Section 6 — Frequently Asked Questions
On completion. For a sale, if the property does not sell there is no fee. Buyer and letting fees fall due only when the deal closes.
How long does a sale usually take?
Most transactions complete six to eight weeks after an offer is accepted. Chains and financing can extend that, and we keep you informed at every stage.
Can I work with you as both buyer and seller?
Yes. Many clients sell one home and buy the next with us, and we coordinate both so the dates line up smoothly.
What if I need to withdraw?
Your agreement sets out the notice period and any costs before completion. We will always talk you through the options before anything is decided.
This guide is general information about our services and is not legal, financial, or tax advice for any particular transaction. Please contact us to discuss your situation.