Common questions about selling your property

Answers to some of the questions most commonly asked by property sellers. 

How long will it take to sell my house?
Every property we market is different so it is impossible to give a simple answer. But if you speak to any of the Butler Sherborn team, they will be able to give you an indication of how long it has taken to sell properties like yours, as well as up-to-date information on current market dynamics.

How much will it cost to sell my house?
On completion of a sale, we will charge a selling fee which is a small percentage of the sale price plus VAT.

When is the best time to sell?
Traditionally the country house market was split into two seasons, with a spring and an autumn market. However, the market has changed a lot over the last decade and more recently the prime selling times have been in January, from May to July and from September to late November.

What is the property market like at the moment?
We keep our News section updated with market commentary, and our most up-to-date thoughts on the market can be found there.

Who will show the buyers around my house?
We will always send our fully trained sales staff to conduct viewings. They know how to present properties to their best advantage and, if you are not there, they will arrive in advance of the viewing to open doors, put on lights and be ready to welcome the potential buyer.

When is the best time to instruct a solicitor?
It is best to instruct a solicitor as soon as you accept an offer on your property. Your solicitor will put together a draft contract and send it to your buyer’s solicitor as soon as the sale has been agreed. Any delay in instructing your solicitor will only delay the exchange of contracts and possibly hinder your sale in a fast moving market.

What are searches?
Searches are carried out on a property with regards to water, drainage and planning, to check that the property is as it should be. Your solicitors will carry out the searches.