Six simple steps to selling your home in 2025
Selling your home can seem overwhelming and time consuming. Yet with the right approach and support, it can set the stage for a straightforward home-move process – and your exciting next chapter.

Setting yourself up for success
When it comes to selling a property, so many opportunities are under your control and can make a real difference to the speed and ease of your sale. It's all about preparation, planning and creating the best possible experience for you and your buyers.
From budgeting for costs like estate agent fees and removal services to preparing your home for viewings, having a clear roadmap will reduce stress and mean no detail is overlooked. It's also valuable to explore the various financial options and schemes available, which can make all the difference.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned seller, read on for our top tips on how to get your home off the market with confidence.
1. Plan finances for the essentials
Selling a home inevitably comes with costs beyond estate agent’s fees, so it’s important to plan ahead and be ready for any surprises. Here’s a quick guide to must-need costs:
- Estate agent fees: This is typically 1-3.5% of your home’s value. As an alternative, online agents, such as Yopa and Purple Bricks, often offer a fixed price of around £1,000.
- Conveyancing fees: Depending on your home’s price, the searches you need and if you want to include a property valuation – you can expect this to be between £500 – £1,500.
- Energy Performance Certificate (EPC): Costing £60 – £120 if you need a new one, this certificate is a legal requirement – so it's best to get it sorted as soon as possible.
- Removal costs: These are individual to you, and they can be anywhere from £400 – £1,200 – depending on travelling distance, the amount of belongings and whether you pack yourself.
Knowing these in advance allows you to focus on the fun part – finding your new happy place.

2. Stage your home to shine
First impressions count, and a beautifully presented home can tip the scales when it comes to winning over prospective buyers. Start from the outside with tidy gardens, fresh paintwork and a doorway that sets the tone of your home. Then, work your way through your home’s interior and...
- Declutter: Create a sense of space by clearing surfaces and packing away personal items.
- Tailor to buyers: Keep in mind the type of person that will be interested in living in your home. If it’s young professionals, keep spaces minimal. Families? Then highlight storage and practical, multifunctional rooms.
- Lighten up: Use mirrors and soft, neutral tones to brighten rooms and create a welcoming space.

Small touches can also make your home feel extra inviting and leave a positive memory in your buyer's mind. Think fresh flowers or a warm, easy-to-love scent.
3. Get that all-important EPC
An Energy Performance Certificate is essential to selling your home. Valid for 10 years, it gives buyers a snapshot of the energy efficiency of the property. You can check if yours is still valid online, or arrange a new one through your estate agent. It’s a small cost but a crucial step, so it’s worth organising yours early ahead of your sale.
4. Choosing the right estate agent
Research is key when selecting an agent to market your home. Look at comparable properties in your area on platforms like Zoopla or Rightmove and get at least three valuations. When choosing, look at their track record with homes like yours, marketing strategies and fees, and those all-important online reviews and local reputation.
High-street agents often handle the process from beginning to end. However, if you prefer to save on fees, online agents or selling privately are also options.

5. Shop for time and money-saving schemes
If you're upgrading to a new build, it’s worthwhile exploring the various schemes on offer to streamline your move. Here are just a few from the range that we offer at Charles Church:
- Part Exchange: To skip the hassle of selling on the open market, you can sell your home to your home builder. This helps you to avoid delays, chains and extra fees.
- Home Change: This scheme simplifies the selling process. We find a buyer for your current home, while you reserve your new home with ease.
- Deposit Unlock: Any impacts on your deposit are crucial when approaching mortgage lenders. With our Deposit Unlock scheme, you can move with as little as a 5% deposit – giving you the flexibility to choose your perfect new sanctuary.

6. Accepting the best offer for you
Although every home seller generally wants the largest purchase price, it’s not always about the highest bid.
Choosing the right buyer can be the difference between a seamless sale, and the common stress-filled home move. Consider factors like chain-free buyers or those in shorter chains, which means you'll be choosing a buyer who can move quickly and is less likely to pull out.
To guarantee your peace of mind, be sure to follow the advice of your estate agent and trust your gut instinct.
Let us help sell your home
To explore how Charles Church can make your home sale simple, contact our executive sales team today.
Speak to our team