Selling a property can be an exciting yet stressful experience. For many, it’s not something they do regularly, so it’s natural to feel unsure about the process. At Fonseca Law, we’ve seen it all when it comes to property transactions, and we know that even small mistakes can cause delays, added costs, or even jeopardise the sale entirely.

To help you navigate the process smoothly, we’ve outlined five common mistakes property sellers make and how to avoid them. With the right preparation and expert advice from your trusted conveyancing and property experts, you can sidestep these pitfalls and ensure your sale goes as smoothly as possible.

1. Inadequate Preparation Before Listing

One of the biggest mistakes sellers make is rushing to put their property on the market without being fully prepared. It’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of selling, but failing to prepare properly can result in delays further down the line.

What you can do:

Before listing your property, gather all the necessary paperwork. This includes proof of ownership (your title deeds), planning permissions for any extensions or modifications, building regulation approvals, and certificates for things like gas or electrical installations.

If you’re unsure what’s required, ask your conveyancing solicitor as they will be only too happy to guide you. Having everything in order from the start will help prevent unnecessary back-and-forth with potential buyers and avoid delays during the legal process.

2. Mispricing the Property

Setting the wrong price for your property can either scare off buyers or leave you out of pocket. Overpricing may deter interest, while underpricing could mean you’re selling for less than the property is worth.

What you can do:

Get a professional valuation to ensure your property is priced competitively. Work with experienced estate agents who know the local market well, and don’t rely solely on online estimators - they can often be inaccurate.

While it’s tempting to set a higher price with the hope of negotiating down later, keep in mind that most buyers will bypass overpriced properties entirely, especially in a competitive market.

3. Not Disclosing Key Information

Failing to disclose important details about your property can have serious consequences. Whether it’s an ongoing dispute with a neighbour, structural issues, or a history of flooding, concealing these issues could lead to legal complications down the line - or even derail the sale altogether.

What you can do:

Be honest and upfront about any issues. Complete the property information form (TA6) accurately and include any details a buyer would need to know. Remember, being transparent builds trust and reduces the risk of disputes later in the process.

Your solicitor will help ensure you’re disclosing the right information while also protecting your interests.

Read: Information to legally declare when selling a property

4. Choosing the Wrong Buyer

It’s easy to get excited about a high offer, but not all buyers are created equal. Some buyers may struggle to get their financing approved or have a property chain that adds unnecessary delays.

What you can do:

Don’t just accept the highest offer - evaluate the buyer’s position too. Are they a cash buyer? Do they have a mortgage agreement in principle? Are they part of a long property chain?

Your estate agent can help you vet buyers, and your conveyancing solicitor will keep you informed throughout the process. Sometimes, a slightly lower offer from a reliable buyer with no chain can be a better option than a higher offer that carries more risk.

5. Overlooking Legal Advice

One of the costliest mistakes a seller can make is underestimating the importance of expert legal support. Trying to navigate the legal aspects of selling a property without professional guidance can lead to errors, delays, and financial loss.

What you can do:

Instruct an experienced conveyancing solicitor as soon as you decide to sell. A solicitor will handle the legal paperwork, ensure compliance with UK property laws, and resolve any issues that arise during the transaction.

At Fonseca Law, we pride ourselves on offering clear, expert guidance to help sellers through the conveyancing process with minimal stress. By working with us, you can be confident that your sale is in safe hands.

Read: Importance of separate legal representation in property transactions

Avoid These Common Mistakes

Selling a property doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right preparation, a clear understanding of the process, and expert legal support, you can avoid these common mistakes and achieve a smooth and successful sale.

At Fonseca Law, we’re here to help every step of the way. Whether you’re selling your family home, an investment property, or a piece of land, our experienced conveyancing team in Ebbw Vale can provide the trusted advice and support you need.

If you’re planning to sell your property or have questions about the process, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. We’d be delighted to help make your property sale as seamless as possible.

Contact Fonseca Law today - because when it comes to selling your property, expert advice makes all the difference.