Whether one is preparing or planning might be semantics but the message about the possibility of failure is a very simple but poignant statement that is applicable

to many areas of life. And yes, it can apply as much to property sales as it can to the plan you might be considering for a new business venture.

Rather heavy thinking for a Saturday morning opinion piece on the housing market maybe but I hope thought provoking for homeowners who would like to move sooner rather than later.

Whilst you might hope that your property will sell, perhaps it’s worth considering the wise words of Messrs Franklin and Churchill by actually planning to sell as the process does not happen of its own accord. Much as many like to criticise the uncertainties of the system, and how long things seem to take, in many instances owners failing to plan ahead is a major contributor to the problems and delays that can arise.

Let me explain. If a purchaser has a fundamental change of heart part way through the buying process, there is often little a seller or an agent can do. The longer said process takes, the greater the potential for this to happen especially if there is an associated chain of sales involving others and the vagaries of human nature.

However, this is far from the sole reason why industry data currently suggests that around 25 per cent of agreed sales fall through before exchange. So here are a few suggestions to improve your chances of achieving a quicker sale.

Your agent will arrange an EPC when first instructed but if you already have one, is it still valid, and relevant if you have made recent improvements? Instruct your solicitors sooner rather than later, then complete (and return) the Property Information Form and separate Fixtures and Fittings form they send you.

At this stage, not later, do also collate the documentation that supports the answers you have given. If you have extended or altered your home, planning permission and building regulation paperwork will exist and that means the completion certificate as well.

If you don’t have them, now is the time for discussion with your solicitor, who hopefully has already been asked to check your title deeds for any defects and how best to rectify them. The only thing gained by not doing so now, is usually major heartache when everyone gets fraught demanding documentation the week before exchange.

So plan ahead. If you have had new windows, where is the FENSA certificate? Likewise, the HETAS installation certificate for the lovely stove featured in your brochure.

Please don’t wait until the buyer asks for gas and electricity safety certification. Plan ahead. If you have septic tank drainage, it might have worked for years but does it comply with the latest legislation? Get it checked now rather than avoid the issue. Your agent should know who to contact for all these requirements.

If you fail to plan, or decide to wait and see what the buyer requests late in the process, there is often unnecessary delay and frustration, and sometimes price renegotiation. Now what did Mr Churchill say?

Tim Waring, Prime Residential, GSC Grays 01423 590500, [email protected]

Tips on planning and preparation to get a property sale in this slower market