Getting your house valued

Settling on a figure

When the agent gives you their valuation some like to leave themselves some 'wiggle-room'. This means they can often be vague when giving you their final valuation figure. Typically, they'll say things like: 'Well, I think it is worth between £230,000 and £245,000'. Frankly, that's not good enough!

1. Make sure the agent gives you a precise figure for the 'asking price' (the price you will advertise at).
2. Make sure they commit to the actual figure they expect your property to finally sell for.
3. Make sure they tell you how long they expect it will take to sell at this price.
4. Finally, it's important to ask them to explain how they've arrived at these figures and time frames.

At this point, the agent should start walking you through the comparable evidence they've brought with them. They should explain the pros and cons of each property, how long they took to sell and how they compare to yours. They should also tell you about property like yours that they're selling at the moment, and how long they have been on the market.

Study these property details (the comparable evidence) and make sure the properties really are like yours. If they're not, ask why not.

Trust your instincts

How the agent addresses the areas we've discussed is just as important as what answers they give. Have they responded quickly, confidently and graciously, or do they sound patronising? Have they taken the time to justify their valuation thoroughly and logically? Do you feel they're the sort of agent that will go the extra mile for you? What is your gut feeling?

The right price

The acid test for any property is the market. The market will tell you if you've priced your house correctly.

Above all, remember that no viewings probably means your house is overpriced, and lots of viewings but no offers means your house is priced correctly but something is putting off the buyers (it's normally the presentation).

Selling for what your house is truly worth is simply a matter of:

• Selling when the market is strong
• Presenting your property as well as possible
• Not being in a position where you're pressured to sell
• Pricing your house competitively against its competition

If you can do this you will take control of your sale and be in the best possible position to sell for maximum profit (within a convenient time frame).

At the House Sales Advisory you will learn how to get the best from estate agents, online conveyancing solicitors and mortgage lenders. You will also find free guides on property valuation, selling property privately and how to deal with cash house buyers.