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Selling your home can be a stressful experience, especially when things don’t move as quickly as you’d like. There are many reasons why a sale can stall, and if you’re hoping for a smooth, fast house sale, it’s worth knowing what might cause delays and how to avoid them.

We’ve outlined the most common reasons house sales slow down, along with practical tips to help you stay ahead of them and keep the process on track.

How long does it take for a house sale to go through?

The time it takes to complete a house sale can vary, typically between 3 to 6 months. This depends on several factors, including the number of people in the property chain, and there’s no definitive timeframe.

In more complex chains, the process could take up to a year. On the other hand, selling to a cash house buyer with no chain involved can significantly reduce this time – often completing in as little as 2 to 4 weeks.

What Can Delay a House Sale?

House sales can be delayed for a number of reasons, some within your control, and others not. From the moment your property hits the market, factors like market conditions, buyer demand, property valuation, and overall condition can influence the speed of the sale.

Further along the process, delays may arise due to issues with paperwork, legal checks, or complications in the chain. Being prepared and proactive can help avoid unnecessary setbacks.

What are conveyancing delays?

Conveyancing refers to the legal process of transferring property ownership. Delays can happen at various stages, from incomplete paperwork to issues in the property chain or slow communication between solicitors.

Because conveyancing involves multiple parties, buyers, sellers, solicitors, and sometimes lenders, even small hiccups can impact timelines. Staying on top of documentation and choosing experienced conveyancers can help reduce the risk of delays.

The most common factors that slow down your house sale

Mortgage problems

Delays with mortgage approvals are a common reason for sales falling through. Sometimes a buyer makes an offer before securing a mortgage in principle, or their financial circumstances change before completion, causing lenders to withdraw their offer.

How you can help:

As a seller, always confirm that your buyer has a mortgage agreement in principle before accepting an offer. If you’re buying, avoid big financial changes (like switching jobs) during the process, as this could affect your eligibility.

Buyer pulls out

One of the most stressful scenarios for any seller is the buyer pulling out before contracts are exchanged. Unfortunately, until contracts are signed, this is always a possibility.

How you can help:

While you can’t change a buyer’s mind, keeping the process moving swiftly reduces the chance of them getting cold feet. Respond quickly to requests, send documents promptly, and stay in close contact with your solicitor.

Offers changing before exchange of contract

Sometimes buyers try to renegotiate their offer – often once your property is off the market and you’ve committed to your next move. This can be frustrating and disruptive.

How you can help:

The faster the process moves, the less opportunity there is for a buyer to revise their offer. Stay on top of paperwork, chase your solicitor if needed, and keep communication flowing.

Buyer is gazumped

Gazumping happens when a seller accepts a higher offer from another buyer after already agreeing a sale. It can be upsetting and cause significant delays.

How you can help:

As a buyer, consider a lock-out agreement, which gives you exclusive rights to purchase the property for a set period. You can also request the property be taken off the market once your offer is accepted to reduce risk.

Contract disagreements

Disputes over contracts can arise for many reasons, from fixtures and fittings to boundary concerns, covenants, or planning permission issues. Any of these can delay the sale.

How you can help:

Open and prompt communication is essential. If issues crop up, encourage both sides’ solicitors to work together constructively to resolve them quickly.

Survey problems

A property survey can uncover hidden problems such as damp, structural issues, or roof damage, sometimes surprising even the seller. According to the HomeOwners Alliance, 27% of sales fall through due to survey findings.

How you can help:

If issues are flagged, be ready to act. Whether it’s negotiating on price or agreeing to repairs, being flexible and open can help keep the sale on track.

Large property chains

The more people involved in a property chain, the greater the risk of delays. One setback in the chain can affect every sale – including yours. If a part of the property chain breaks it can lead to issues further down the line.

How you can help:

You can’t control others, but you can keep your side moving. Submit documents promptly, stay in contact with your solicitor, and be ready to act as soon as you’re needed.

Local searches

Solicitors carry out local searches to check for planning or environmental issues. Some local authorities process these faster than others and delays here can slow things down significantly.

How you can help:

Request searches as early as possible and keep in touch with your solicitor to monitor progress. In some cases, searches can be done via a private company – speak to your conveyancer about the options.

How to speed up solicitors when buying a house

The legal process of buying a home can sometimes feel slow, especially when you’re eager to move. It’s not uncommon to feel overlooked if your solicitor is juggling multiple clients.

While some delays are unavoidable, there are a few practical steps you can take to help keep things on track:

• Choose a reputable solicitor

Do your research before instructing anyone. Read reviews, ask for recommendations, and choose a solicitor with a strong track record in handling property transactions efficiently.

Checking in for updates keeps your case top of mind. Even if progress is slow, regular communication helps you stay informed and feel more in control of the process.

• Respond quickly to requests

If your solicitor needs documents, signatures, or information, aim to reply as quickly as possible. Prompt responses help avoid unnecessary delays and keep things moving forward.

Keep essential paperwork and financial details in order from the start. This includes proof of ID, mortgage agreements, and deposit information. Being ready for the next step helps your solicitor act quickly when needed.

By being proactive, responsive, and well-organised, you’ll not only make your solicitor’s job easier, but you’ll also increase the chances of a smoother, quicker experience.

Alternatives to the traditional process

If you’re looking to sell your home quickly, without the delays and complications that often come with a traditional sale, working with a cash house buyer could be a smart alternative.

At Good Move, we can provide you with a no-obligation cash offer within 24 hours. Because we buy directly and operate outside of lengthy property chains, we help you avoid common issues like mortgage delays, broken chains, and survey hold-ups.

Whether you’re facing time pressure, financial difficulty, or simply want a smoother, faster way to sell, we’re here to help.

Get in touch today to receive your free, no-obligation cash offer and see how easy selling your home can be.

New research from Good Move suggests that relationship breakdowns in the UK are growing increasingly common – revealing that hidden issues faced by couples are often centred around their finances. In the current housing market, and one painted with significant financial uncertainty, some propose that to be in a couple, or to cohabit, could save you money. However, new data finds the opposite, and that this safety net could be costing Brits a lot more than the emotional expense. Alongside children (17%), or families-by-law (20%), financial issues make up the largest cause for disputes in relationships (29%) in the UK, ultimately contributing to breakdown of 42% of relationships.

How much would a breakup cost you today?

A split for a couple either married, or cohabiting, in the UK comes at both a financial and emotional cost, with the average divorce costing Brits around £14,500, before considering the financial fallout of two individual households or legal disputes. Whilst some feel that they save their pocket by splitting their property bills 50/50, in the current market, it may cost couples more than their savings if this relationship suffers from a breakdown, and not just in cash. Combined with the 22-week timeline for an average property sale, UK couples are now faced with increased costs, including the initial financial spend, the emotional toll of a four month wait list, on top of the resulting doubling of property fees, when they proceed to cover the remaining 50% of property bills. “Alongside grieving, having a child, or moving house, research suggests that the breakdown of a relationship causes enormous emotional stress which, when combined with the financial and logistical burden that comes with separating property assets, can often drag the pain out for months. We’re seeing more people come to us because they need a clean break and certainty, something the traditional property market just doesn’t offer.”, comments Nima Ghasri, director at Good Move.

What does this mean for the housing market, and what can you do about it?

Whilst breakups are emotionally draining, there is increasing importance in protecting your wellbeing, independence, and long-term happiness in times of financial stressors – managing both this emotional, and financial cost with confidence. This is where selling your house to a cash house buyer can come in – expediting the process and removing some of the pain of a house sale.

“Quick sales aren’t just about money anymore; they’re about protecting peace, promoting stability and moving on.”, adds Nima, “Our clients aren’t just selling a house; they’re closing a chapter. They need speed, certainty and minimal stress. That’s exactly what we provide.” Click here to find out more about how to sell your house fast.

New insights from Good Move reveal the surprising strengths (and struggles) of over-65 homeowners. 

In a market often defined by rising mortgage rates, lacking buyer demand and affordability issues, you might expect younger sellers to move homes faster. However, our latest public survey suggests the opposite: it’s older Brits who are beating the market clock. 

Our UK survey shows that 14.29% of over-65s sold their home in under a month, the highest success rate when selling a house fast of any age group. That’s compared to just 9.09% of 25–34-year-olds, and a meagre 2.63% of those aged 35–44. 

Why are older homeowners moving faster?

There are a few likely reasons the older generation are making sales quicker:  

• Equity advantage: Many older sellers are mortgage-free, meaning they’re under less financial pressure and can price more competitively. 

• Simpler chains: Retirees who are downsizing or moving into retirement living often have fewer links in the chain, making for faster completions. 

• Desirable locations: Over-65s are more likely to live in established residential areas that appeal to family buyers. 

• Realistic pricing: Experience may count — older homeowners tend to be more pragmatic about market conditions and may be quicker to adjust asking prices. 

“There’s a common misconception that older homeowners are slower to sell, but our data shows they’re often the most motivated and prepared,” says Nima Ghasri, director at Good Move. 

“They know their property’s worth, and they’re often downsizing, so there’s a stronger incentive to move quickly.” 

The bungalow bottleneck

However, not all older sellers are breezing through the market. Another finding from our research is that bungalows, often the go-to property for retirees, are taking the longest to sell. 21.05% of bungalow sellers said it took over six months to shift their property, the highest proportion across all property types. 

This could be due to a mismatch in supply and demand. Bungalows are in short supply nationally, with many built in the mid-to-late 20th century. That means many are outdated or need modernising, a deterrent for younger buyers, and yet still too expensive for those on limited incomes. There’s also a limited market for bungalows, with many younger buyers requiring space for a young family. 

How does income affect home sale speed?

Our survey also explored the impact of personal income on property sales. We found that: 

• Sellers earning £30,000–£39,999 were most likely to shift their homes quickly (27–28% sold in under a month). 

• Those on £40,000–£69,999 had more mixed outcomes — some sold quickly, while others experienced long delays. 

• No one earning £100,000+ reported selling in under six months — although the sample size here was low. 

Interestingly, lower-income sellers (£15,000–£25,000) had mixed fortunes. Some achieved quick sales — perhaps due to more modest homes — while others were among those stuck for over half a year. 

What does this mean for the housing market?

These findings add depth to the national conversation around housing supply, affordability, and ageing demographics. As charities like Shelter have pointed out, we’ve seen a dramatic drop in social home building, from over 200,000 homes a year in the 1950s, to fewer than 10,000 in 2023/24. 

This lack of stock affects everyone, especially younger and lower-income households. Meanwhile, older homeowners often find themselves sitting on valuable property, but unable to move due to logistical, financial, or market barriers. 

Fast sale, slow market? Good Move can help

At Good Move, we help people from all walks of life sell quickly, fairly, and stress-free. Whether you’re a retiree looking to downsize or a first-time seller struggling to navigate the market, we offer regulated, professional support at every step. 

Need a quick house sale? Get a free, no-obligation offer from a regulated cash house buyer today. 

So, you’ve decided to sell your home – but where do you start? When it comes to how to sell your house, particularly how to sell your house fast, it can be difficult to know what you need to do to get your house market-ready and in a position to sell.

The decisions that you make during the process of selling your home could either save or cost you money. It can also have a strong impact on how easy or difficult it is to sell your home. In this guide, we’ve put together some top tips to help you sell your home.

What are the First Things to Do When Selling Your House?

Selling your home is a big decision, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here’s where to begin if you’re thinking of moving on.

Decide to sell

First, be sure you’re ready – financially, emotionally, and practically. Ask yourself why you’re selling: is it to upsize, downsize, relocate, or release equity quickly? Clarifying your motivation will help guide your next steps. If you’re in a hurry or want certainty, a regulated cash house buyer like Good Move might be worth considering.

Value your house

Before putting your property on the market, you need a realistic idea of what it’s worth.

• Online tools can give a rough estimate.
• Local estate agents offer free valuations.
• RICS surveyors provide the most accurate picture, especially useful for fast-sale routes.

If you choose to Get a Cash Offer from a cash buying company, expect an offer slightly below full market value in return for speed and convenience.

Decide how you’re going to sell

When it comes to selling your home there are a few routes to take with estate agents, auction or cash house buyers all providing options for selling your home.

We’ll go into more detail on the benefits of each method of selling in the next section, but choose the route that best suits your timeframe, financial goals, and stress tolerance. For example, if you’re selling a problem property, you may be looking for a quick sale.

Prepare the house for sale

First impressions matter. A well-presented home can make all the difference:

• Get an EPC – Before you can sell your home, you must have applied for an Energy Performance Certificate, if your home doesn’t already have one.
• Declutter and depersonalise: Make it easy for buyers to imagine themselves there by ensuring there aren’t too many personal touches that make the home inherently ‘you’.
• Fix minor issues: Dripping taps, squeaky doors, scuffed walls – these little things will draw the eye of a house buyer. Quick fixes count and provide less leverage for haggling on price.
• Tidy up outside: Boost kerb appeal with a mowed lawn, swept path, and clean front door. First impressions make a huge difference to buyers – so you need to ensure yours is a good one.

Even if you’re selling fast without viewings, a well-kept home helps valuation accuracy and avoids any unwanted surprises at survey stage.

Which is the Best Way to Sell a House?

There’s no definitive answer to this question – it really comes down to you and the reasons you’re selling a home. A house sale can take time, so this may be a deciding factor. There are three main ways to sell your house, each with their own pros and cons:

Traditional estate agents

Pros – Good for getting the highest price for your property.

Cons – Estate agent sales can be slow and uncertain. There’s also a risk of house chain collapse.

Auction

Pros – Selling a house at auction is a quick way to sell your home.

Cons – This can be a risky way of approaching a house sale. Much of it comes down to the bids received on the day, meaning prices vary, plus there are also fees.

Cash house buyers (like Good Move)

Pros – Fast, no chain, and no fees – perfect for a quicker, simpler sale.

Cons – Cash house buyers will often offer around 20% under the market value of your home.

Ultimately, it’s up to you to choose the best way to sell your home that suits your needs and personal circumstances. If you are interested in a quick sale through a cash house buyer, you can find out more about the Good Move Process here.

How to Sell My House Fast – Preparing Your Home

If you’re looking to sell your house quickly – whether to free up cash, relocate, or just move on – preparation is key. Even with a fast sale option like Good Move, a little effort upfront can help you secure the best possible offer and avoid delays.

1. Declutter and Depersonalise

Buyers (or surveyors!) need to see the potential in your home, not your belongings.

• Clear surfaces and pack away family photos or niche décor.
• Consider removing excess furniture to make rooms feel larger.
• Box up anything you won’t need before moving – it’ll save you time later, too.

Put yourself in the shoes of the buyer, they’ll want to see the potential within your house to make it their own home. It’s much easier with a clean start, as opposed to looking at someone else’s home and having to imagine it.

2. Deep Clean

A spotless home feels well cared for, which can improve your valuation and help the sale move faster.

• Clean floors, windows, tiles, and inside cupboards.
• Pay special attention to kitchens and bathrooms—fresh smells and gleaming surfaces give a great impression.
• Don’t forget the outside: clean windows and pressure wash patios or paths if needed.

Once again, putting yourself in the shoes of the buyer, an unclean or untidy home can lead to doubts about any potential underlying issues. After all, if the house doesn’t look cared for at surface level, there could be much worse lying beneath.

3. Tackle Minor Repairs

Selling your home doesn’t mean skipping maintenance. Small issues can flag concerns during surveys and slow down the process.

• Fix loose handles, cracked tiles, dripping taps, or squeaky hinges.
• Replace blown lightbulbs and touch up scuffed paintwork.
• Make sure doors and windows open smoothly and lock securely.

4. Boost Kerb Appeal

First impressions still matter – even in a fast sale. Making sure your house is looking at its best from the outside will give potential buyers – whether booked viewings or simply passing by – the best possible impression of your home.

• Tidy up the garden or front yard.
• Clean your front door and add a fresh doormat.
• A few potted plants or a trimmed hedge go a long way in adding polish.

5. Be Ready to Move

If you’re aiming for a fast sale, you need to be ready to act quickly once an offer is accepted.

• Start gathering paperwork: title deeds, utility bills, warranties, and ID.
• Line up a solicitor or consider using one recommended by your buyer for speed.
• Begin packing non-essentials – you could be moving sooner than you think.

Even though you might be skipping viewings with a cash buyer, their offer will still be based on surveys and property condition – so it pays to prepare properly. The cleaner, safer, and better presented your home is, the faster and smoother your sale will go.

What is the Most Profitable Way to Sell My House?

When it comes to selling your house and making the most money, a traditional estate agent sale is often the way to go. However, we understand that this method of sale isn’t for everyone.

If you need to sell your house fast, a cash house buying company can be a great option. Although cash house buyers will often offer slightly less than the market value, you’ll find yourself able to sell much quicker.

We can make a cash offer within 24 hours and often complete sales in as little as 10 days. Simply request a cash offer via the link below or call us on 0800 802 1175.

Which are the best UK home builders when it comes to after-sales care? Let’s ask the residents! Many people might assume that buying a new home means having few problems to deal with. However, this is rarely the case. And, with tens of thousands of verified reviews for UK new build homes, HomeViews can reveal who you can trust when buying a new build home.

How do UK house builders rank for after sales care?

When homeowners leave a review on HomeViews, we ask them to rate the After Sales Care of the home builder. However, this and Management are consistently the lowest-rated categories for UK new build developers.

Good customer service during and after the sale is completed is crucial for a positive moving experience for buyers. This is because new homes often come with a wide variety of snags and other issues that will need addressing. Your developer is typically responsible for fixing these for the first two years, and possibly longer, depending on your warranty.

The list below ranks UK home builders according to owner ratings specifically for After Sales Care. Choose your builder wisely!

The 10 best UK home builders for after sales care

So, which of the UK’s new home builders rank best for after sales care? Take a look at our rankings below to help guide your new build property search.

This list is based on reviews data from April 2023 – April 2025 for home builders with a minimum of 50 verified HomeViews reviews from owners during that time.

1. Berkeley Group

After sales care rating: 3.88 out of 5

Berkeley Group has a long-running reputation for quality across its operations, and it rates as the top developer for after sales care in our rankings. With developments across London, Birmingham and the South of England, Berkeley’s ethos is to build lasting communities with a focus on sustainability.

2. Northstone

After sales care rating: 3.92 out of 5

Second-placed Northstone is part of the Peel Group, a northern-based developer striving to create spaces, environments and communities where families can thrive. Designed to fit the needs of modern life and embrace technology, Northstone homes aim to enhance local ecosystems with a “commitment to sustainability and a people-first approach.”

3. The Hill Group

After sales care rating: 3.66 out of 5

The Hill Group takes third place in our list of the top home builders for after sales care. The developer operates in London and the South East of England and has won a number of other housebuilding accolades, including 5 stars in the Home Builders Federation Customer Satisfaction Survey in 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2021.

4. Davidsons Homes

After sales care rating: 3.63 out of 5

Davidsons takes fourth place in our ranking, with 24 developments on HomeViews achieving an average rating of 3.63 out of 5 for after sales care. For over fifty years, Davidsons Homes has focused on building solid, distinctive homes and creating unique places with characterful landscaping and open spaces.

5. Higgins Homes PLC

After sales care rating: 3.40 out of 5

Fifth place is secured by Higgins Homes PLC – an award-winning developer building and designing properties across London, Essex, Hertfordshire and Kent. This family-run company has been operating for more than 50 years, and focuses on crafting its homes with care and attention to detail.

(Joint) 6. Countryside

After sales care rating: 3.32 out of 5

Countryside operates across London, the South East, the North West of England and the West Midlands, and was founded in 1958. Taking joint sixth place in this year’s list, Countryside also creates affordable and private housing for local authorities and housing associations through planning agreements, PRS housing, mixed use schemes and joint ventures.

(Joint) 6. FABRICA

After sales care rating: 3.32 out of 5

FABRICA ranks joint sixth in our rankings of the best developers for after sales care. With 17 developments on HomeViews, FABRICA provides a mix of suburban family housing and modern apartment developments, mostly focused in Surrey and West London.

8. Barratt Homes

After sales care rating: 3.27 out of 5

Barratt Homes/Barratt London takes eighth place in our list. Barratt Developments Plc is one of the UK’s largest property developers with over 30 operating divisions (ranking combines ratings for both Barratt Homes and Barratt London).

9. Lovell Homes

After sales care rating: 3.12 out of 5

With 67 developments reviewed on HomeViews, Lovell takes ninth place with an average rating of 3.12 out of 5 for after sales care. Lovell Homes specialises in helping first-time buyers get on the property ladder with a range of incentives that make purchasing a property more affordable. With a focus on sustainability, quality design and customer service, Lovell Homes aims to build not just homes, but communities.

10. Southern Housing

After sales care rating: 2.74 out of 5

Rounding off the list in 10th place, Southern Housing is one of the largest housing providers in the UK. The developer offers a wide range of housing options, including traditional social housing, Shared Ownership, affordable rent, private market rent, student accommodation, care and support services, and Outright sales.

Top 5 things new build owners wish they’d known before buying

Before you go, here’s a quick rundown of the top 5 things that new-build buyers say they wish they’d known before purchasing. This list comes from our latest free New Build Buyer’s Guide. You can check that out in the link, where you’ll also find the full top 10 list. In this order of priority, prior to buying, new-build buyers wish they’d known more about:

1. The developer and property manager
2. Parking arrangements
3. The quality of the garden
4. Snagging surveys – how they work, what the developer’s conditions are, etc
5. How the property looks/feels at different times of the day

Read the full guide for more details, but do bear these points in mind if you’re looking to buy a new build home.

The biggest home builders in the UK

Below is a list of the biggest housebuilders in the UK, as listed on letsbuild.com. As you can see, both Barratt and Redrow are among the largest, but still feature in our top-rated list for customer service.

1. Barratt Developments
2. Kier Group
3. Taylor Wimpey
4. Persimmon Group
5. Galliford Try
6. Bellway
7. Redrow
8. Willmott Dixon

HomeViews is the only independent review platform for residential developments in the UK. Prospective buyers and tenants use it to make an informed decision on where to live based on insights from carefully verified resident reviews. Part of Rightmove since February 2024, we’re working with developers, house builders, operators, housing associations and the Government to give residents a voice, recognise high performers and to help improve standards across the industry.

Discover the ten best property developers according to Verified reviews by first-time buyers on HomeViews. Buying a house for the first time can be a complicated and confusing process. For this reason it’s important to find a developer or house builder that can help you through the process and provide a good level of care as you navigate the buying process. While you’ll need to consider available homes in your search area, these ten developers could be a good way to narrow your search.

Top 10 developers for first time buyers

So, which of the UK’s property developers are highest-rated by first-time buyers? See our latest Top 10 ranking below and click through to see each developer’s ratings and developments on HomeViews.

Please note: this Top 10 list is not based on the Star Ratings shown below, but purely on reviews between April 2023 to April 2025. Only developers with a minimum of 50 reviews in this period were considered for the awards.

4.18 Rating (based on 99 reviews)

Northstone, part of the Peel Group, is a northern-based place maker and provides quality, innovative homes. They strive to create spaces, environments and communities for families to thrive. With spaces to fit the needs of modern life and embrace technology, Northstone aims to enhance local ecosystems with a commitment to sustainability and a people-first approach.

Read more about Northstone

4.04 Rating (based on 274 reviews)

Hill is an award-winning housebuilder and one of the leading developers in London and the southeast of England, offering both private and affordable homes. This family-owned and operated company is the UK’s second-largest privately-owned housebuilder, with a diverse portfolio that includes landmark mixed-use regeneration schemes, inner-city apartments, and homes in rural countryside settings. Hill prides […] Read more about The Hill Group

4.16 Rating (based on 2288 reviews)

Berkeley Group builds homes and neighbourhoods across London, Birmingham and the South of England. Their passion and purpose is to build quality homes, strengthen communities, and make a lasting positive difference to people’s lives. Their vision is to be a world-class business, trusted to transform the most challenging sites into exceptional places and to maximise […] Read more about Berkeley Group

4.08 Rating (based on 371 reviews)

Davidsons Homes is a family owned and managed company with over three generations of experience in homebuilding. For over fifty years they have been committed to uniting people across the Midlands with beautifully designed properties that they can truly call their own. Also, their developments are built with traditional values, attention to detail, and a […] Read more about Davidsons Homes

3.92 Rating (based on 240 reviews)

FABRICA is a property business dedicated to building and designing homes in carefully considered locations. From urban apartments to rural houses, every FABRICA development emphasizes quality, sustainable living, and exceptional customer service. FABRICA understands the importance of integrating developments with their locations and communities. Each development is uniquely built, reflecting a long-term commitment to property […] Read more about FABRICA

4.01 Rating (based on 545 reviews)

Countryside is an award-winning UK property developer specialising in urban regenerations. Countryside homes always demonstrate a focus on green space and sustainability. Countryside operates across London, the South East, the North West of England and the West Midlands, and was founded in 1958. Countryside also create affordable and private housing for local authorities and housing […] Read more about Countryside

3.93 Rating (based on 481 reviews)

Founded in 1961, Fairview New Homes is a property developer. They build detached family homes and city apartments in well-connected locations across London and also the Home Counties. Their developments vary from small collection of homes in village locations to large regeneration projects of hundreds of apartments. In addition, Fairview New Homes aims to always […] Read more about Fairview New Homes

3.88 Rating (based on 141 reviews)

Higgins Homes PLC is an award-winning developer that builds and designs properties across London, Essex, Hertfordshire and Kent. This family-run company has been operating for more than 50 years. Every Higgins Homes development is crafted with care, attention to detail and is guaranteed for 10 years by a national warranty provider.

Read more about Higgins Homes PLC

3.92 Rating (based on 726 reviews)

Lovell Homes is a UK property developer that creates new-build apartments and houses across the country. Lovell Homes seeks to help first-time buyers get on the property ladder with a range of incentives that make purchasing a property more affordable. With a focus on sustainability, quality design and customer service, Lovell Homes aims to build […] Read more about Lovell Homes

3.94 Rating (based on 743 reviews)

Barratt Homes is part of Barratt Developments Plc, one of the UK’s largest property developers with over 30 operating divisions. From city penthouses to family-friendly townhouses, Barratt Homes provides new-build residential units that are energy efficient, carefully designed and built to last. Read on for more information and verbatim Barratt Homes reviews from verified residents. […] Read more about Barratt Homes

How many property development companies are there in the UK?

According to propertydata.com, who publish the UK Housebuilders Directory, there are 2,535 active housebuilders and residential property developers in the UK, as of May 2024. Companies range from large developers with national portfolios right down to smaller, more boutique developers.

What’s the difference between property development and construction?

Construction companies specialise in building new homes, while property developers oversee the entire development process. This can start at the stage of finding land to develop on and securing planning permission to build. Developers may use specialist construction firms to build houses, roads and other infrastructure. However, a construction firm wouldn’t typically design and manage the entire development process.

How do you identify a good property developer?

It’s always a good idea to do your research on a property developer you’re considering buying from. HomeViews reviews are from carefully verified residents, so give you a good idea of how trustworthy a new build developer may be.

Transport connections are mentioned a lot in reviews, so do check those. Parking and the quality of gardens are other factors you should do plenty of research on, as well as local green spaces and other amenities. Within the property itself, check how much storage is provided. And, if you’re buying from new, always consider a snagging survey to pick up any issues with the property build.

What are the advantages of buying directly from a property developer?

Buying directly from a new build property developer can be the most cost-effective way to buy your new home. If you’re buying off-plan (before the construction of the property is completed), you may be able to secure a discount on the purchase price. You may also have a say in the specification, finish and fittings of your property.

Buying directly from a developer also cuts out agents and third parties. This can make the process of completing the transaction smoother. Developers often offer after-sales care and services including fixing snagging issues with the property, so you’re not completely on your own after completing your purchase.

What are the advantages of buying a new build property?

Buying a new-build property directly from a developer has many advantages. It’s usually cheaper to buy a property before or during its construction than it is after construction is complete. New-build properties can also provide you with access to schemes that help with the cost of buying, such as Shared Ownership or deposit contribution schemes.

Aside from the financial benefits, new build homes offer a blank canvas for you to make your mark on. There are unlikely to be any big jobs that you’ll want or need to do on the property. They also offer the benefit of being chain-free, and meet energy efficiency standards, making your bills cheaper.

For more advice on buying a new build home, take a look at our list of 10 things new build owners wish they’d known before buying.

Do first-time buyers pay stamp duty?

The rules regarding stamp duty (or Stamp Duty Land Tax, to use its official name), are different for first-time buyers. You typically pay stamp duty on property purchases above £250,000, at 5%, but this increases for more expensive properties. However, if you’re a first-time buyer you don’t pay stamp duty unless your property is valued at more than £425,000. You can read more about stamp duty in our guide for first-time buyers.

Thinking of buying a new build?

Our new-build essential advice page has everything you need to know. From a step-by-step guide to buying a new build, to the top 10 things new-build buyers wish they had known before purchasing, it can help prepare you for every stage of your move. You can also find further advice for first-time buyers in our guide to first-time buyer schemes and our first-time buyer’s guide to getting a mortgage.

HomeViews is the only independent review platform for residential developments in the UK. Prospective buyers and tenants use it to make an informed decision on where to live based on insights from carefully verified resident reviews. Part of Rightmove since February 2024, we’re working with developers, house builders, operators, housing associations and the Government to give residents a voice, recognise high performers and to help improve standards across the industry.

If you’re looking to sell your house quickly, you’ve come to the right place. At Good Move, we’re regulated property buyers, which means you can trust us to offer reliable and honest advice to help you sell your house fast.

We’ve compiled some essential information to guide you through the process of selling your home quickly, explain how the house-selling process works, and share our top tips for achieving a fast sale.

The home selling process isn’t always quick

In this article:

How to Sell Your House Quickly

Whatever route you’re taking to selling your home, whether through a regulated property purchasing company, estate agent, or via auction, it’s important to understand how the process works.

How Can I Sell My House Fast with Good Move?

At Good Move, our goal is to make your house sale as simple and seamless as possible, helping you sell your property quickly without the worry of hidden legal or agency fees. Simply enter your postcode into the banner at the top of this page, and you’ll receive a cash offer within just 24 hours.

Our home selling service is available across England and Wales. We operate in all the major cities, from London and Manchester to Leeds and Birmingham. Whether you’re looking to sell a property fast in a rural village or a suburban neighbourhood, the Good Move team has the expertise to help—often completing sales in as little as 10 days.

The Process of Selling a House to Good Move

1. Get in touch with us
Simply fill in your postcode at the top of this page or call 0800 802 1175 to begin the process of selling your house quickly with Good Move.

2. We’ll get in touch with you
Once you’ve made contact, our property buyers will contact you to discuss your property and make an offer in principle.

3. Carry out an appraisal
Once you’ve accepted the offer in principle from Good Move, the next step is organising two appraisals of your property. This comes at no cost to you and allows us to create a contract and Home Buyer Report.

4. Accept the formal offer
Based on the outcome of the appraisals, Good Move will make a formal offer for you to consider. This offer will be subject to contract.

5. Contracts are issued
Upon acceptance of the formal offer, solicitors are instructed, and contracts are issued. All these legal costs for recommended solicitors will be covered by Good Move, or we’ll subsidise £500 if you choose to use your own solicitor.

6. Complete your sale!
Once the sale is completed, funds will be transferred to your chosen bank account by the solicitor acting on your behalf

How Can I Sell My House Quickly with an Estate Agent or at Auction?

Estate Agent

Known as the more traditional and most common approach, selling with an estate agent allows your property to be marketed to people in the local area. It’s worth being aware that property chains are one of the biggest causes of sale delays and once that chain breaks, it can take months to recover and get the sale back to a positive, stable stage.

If you are going for a fast sale, you may need to drop your asking price considerably to generate quick interest and be aware that the legal aspects can still take months to complete.

Auction

Auction property sales are growing in popularity. They allow you to have a considerable amount of freedom when it comes to the sale of your property and allow your property to be seen by an increased number of people, including property investors and developers. There are several costs attached to property auctions, and these should be a careful consideration when setting your budget, however, it is a more secure option with the sale tending to be completed within 4-10 weeks, on average.

If you would like to know more about property auctions, check out our property auction guide.

Is It Worth Selling Your House to a House Buying Company?

Now that you’ve been able to weigh up the pros and cons of a quick house sale, you may have decided that a cash house buyer is the best option for you. It removes the stress of communicating with estate agents or selling your home yourself, therefore having to manage your diary of viewings yourself.

The benefits of using Good Move to sell your home fast include:

• An extremely quick house sale – Good Move aims to buy your property within 10 days (it can take between 7-21 days).
• You’ll be working with property professionals who have an in-depth understanding of the sector and are skilled in valuation.
• You can sell your house no matter the condition. We never ignore an inquiry.
• You’ll always receive a cash offer for you to deliberate (with no obligation to buy).
• You’ll never find yourself stuck in a property chain when working with Good Move – this means you can sell your house fast for a quick cash offer and comfortably buy your next home without any blocking factors.

Sell Your House Fast FAQs

What is the quickest you can sell a house?

Good Move has achieved house sales in as fast as seven days and aims to complete every house sale in 21 days or less.

Can I sell my house fast if it’s already on the market?

Even if your property has been on the market for some time, you can always change your approach and choose a fast property sale with an established property buyer like Good Move instead. You can apply for a free cash offer within 24 hours, and only once you have agreed to sell your home with Good Move will you be asked to take your property off the market.

Does it matter what condition my property is in when making a fast house sale?

The condition of your property may affect the offer you receive, but established property purchase companies like Good Move are committed to buying any house quickly and the state of repair will not be a barrier to achieving a sale.

How is the value of my property calculated?

When it comes to selling your home quickly, companies like Good Move use several tools to establish the value of your property and ensure you sell your home as quickly as possible. Valuation software built on a sophisticated algorithm enables the initial quote, based upon information about the property’s location. A team of property analysts then takes further details about the property into account to provide a suitable offer.

Do fast house sales rely on mortgages or cash?

While some companies rely upon mortgage lenders to make fast property purchases, Good Move is a cash buyer and only makes offers to purchase properties for which it has available funds. With Good Move you don’t have to worry about property chains, and your sale is far less likely to fall through.

What if I change my mind?

When selling a property quickly, it is important that you feel empowered to always make the right decisions for you. That’s why, when selling any property to Good Move, you will have 14 days to change your mind after entering a contract, and you have no obligation to provide your reasons for doing so.

The property market is always evolving, especially in 2024, with interest rates impacting sales, estate agency fees increasing to new heights and much more – so, make sure you do your research before you think about selling your home. To sell your home quickly, Good Move are a great option. We will always offer you a fair price for your home, and one that guarantees you will sell your home quickly. Make the first move today and get in touch, or discover the latest in our world to uncover more about how we can help you sell your home this year.