Seller FAQs

How much do you charge for a valuation?

There is no charge for a valuation from Northwood, and there’s no obligation to proceed. Our valuations are based on factual data—such as recent comparable sold prices—along with our local expertise. We do not inflate valuations to secure instructions; instead, we offer an honest assessment aimed at delivering the result you want.

Demand for property in Worcester is strong, with 6,531 homes sold in the 12 months to August 2023.

The national average is around 40 days to agree a sale (as of Oct 2022), with completion typically taking 3–5 months afterwards. Timelines vary from property to property. If speed and certainty are important, our auction routes can secure completion in 28 or 56 days, depending on the method chosen.

The average property price in Worcester is £275,341 (Aug 2023). Prices have risen 6.1% in the last year and 25.7% over the past five years.

Our estate agency fee is 1.5% of the achieved sales price plus VAT, payable only on completion. There is no fee if your property does not sell. We also offer a 0% commission, no-fee option.
Northwood Worcester works with a focused number of properties, enabling us to provide a high level of service and attention to each client. Our fees are competitive—we’re not the cheapest, but far from the most expensive—and are aligned with the quality of service we deliver.

Our comprehensive sales package includes:

  • Prominent For Sale board

  • Professional photography

  • Accompanied viewings (including evenings and weekends)

  • Floorplans

  • Social media advertising (Facebook & Instagram)

  • Listing on the Northwood website and major property portals

  • Dedicated account manager

  • Ongoing offer negotiation and sales progression

  • Mortgage advice via our whole-of-market adviser

  • Conveyancing guidance

  • Access to the Northwood Investors Club (where relevant)

  • Virtual video tours

  • Aerial photography (where applicable)

  • Home staging advice (where applicable)

  • Renovation, maintenance and refurbishment services (where applicable)

  • Open days (where appropriate)

If your property does not sell, Northwood Worcester will not charge you anything.

No, you don’t need to attend. In fact, viewings often run more smoothly when the owner isn’t present, as buyers feel more relaxed asking questions. However, if you prefer to be there, that’s entirely up to you.

We sell a wide range of residential properties across Worcester, Malvern, Droitwich, Pershore, Evesham and the surrounding villages. This includes flats, apartments, terraced homes, semi-detached properties, bungalows and larger rural homes with land.
Whether it’s a studio or a five-bedroom-plus property, we can assist.
Our focus on a select number of homes ensures a high-quality, attentive service.

Yes. All sellers in England must have a valid Energy Performance Certificate before marketing a property. Agents must display the rating in all advertising. If you don’t have one, Northwood Worcester can arrange this for you.

No. Stamp Duty Land Tax is paid by the buyer, not the seller.

Conveyancing covers all legal work required to transfer ownership of your home to the buyer. A solicitor or licensed conveyancer handles this. We can assist you in selecting a suitable conveyancer, and online specialists may also be a good option.

You do not need to arrange a survey yourself. Buyers typically organise their own, and a surveyor will contact you to book access.
Surveyors usually assess:

  • Utilities

  • Damp

  • Structural cracking

  • Roof issues

  • Timber defects

Additionally, the buyer’s mortgage lender will carry out a valuation to ensure the property is worth the loan amount.

Capital Gains Tax is usually only applicable if the property is not your main residence. Your conveyancer can advise based on your individual situation.

We base valuations on factual evidence—such as comparable sales—and our understanding of the local market. We do not inflate prices.
Factors such as condition, location, features and your timescales all play a part in determining the right asking price

During your valuation appointment, we’ll advise on improvements that could help maximise your sale price.
General tips include:

  • Completing small maintenance jobs

  • Refreshing tired décor

  • Ensuring good lighting, especially in darker areas

  • Replacing any blown bulbs

Presenting the home clean and tidy

While the market tends to be busiest from March to September, property sells throughout the year. We take time to understand your circumstances and provide the right advice for your situation. Ultimately, the best time to sell is when it suits you.

We recommend:

  • Tidying away everyday clutter

  • Heating the home to a comfortable temperature

  • Ensuring good lighting

  • Keeping pets out of the way

  • Adding flowers or small touches

  • Cleaning windows

  • Cutting the lawn and tidying edges

These steps help create a positive first impression.

 

Once the sale is agreed, your solicitor prepares the contract. The buyer’s solicitor conducts searches, gathers information, and the lender completes its valuation.
When everything is in place, both parties sign and agree a completion date.
Either party may withdraw at any time until contracts are exchanged.

Title deeds usually sit with your mortgage lender. Your solicitor will obtain them as part of the conveyancing process.

You don’t need to leave any items unless agreed during negotiations. Any inclusions are recorded in the property’s sales particulars.

Completion day is set in the contract. Typically, sellers are expected to vacate by 12pm, although the key handover takes place once your solicitor confirms that funds have been received from the buyer.

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