Situation 9 of 10
Selling your house when you're relocating
A new job, a new country, or family somewhere else. Your move has a date, and the house sale needs to fit it.
“I start a new job in three months and can't wait.”
How to improve it
- Work back from your start date, and tell your agent the deadline so they put chain-free buyers first.
- Think about renting in the new area at first. Selling without buying at the same time takes you out of a chain.
- Ask your new employer's HR team whether they offer any relocation help. Some do.
“We're moving abroad.”
How to improve it
- Instruct your solicitor before you go, and get your ID checks done while you're still here.
- Ask your solicitor whether to give someone you trust a power of attorney to sign for you once you've left.
- Speak to an accountant. If you sell after you've stopped being UK resident, you may need to tell HMRC within 60 days, even if there's no tax to pay.
“We've already moved, and the old house is sitting empty.”
How to improve it
- Check the insurance now. Most home cover stops after about 30 days empty.
- Leave keys with the agent or a trusted neighbour, keep the heating ticking over, and get someone to check it weekly.
- Work out what it costs you each month. That figure tells you how long waiting for a higher price is really worth it.
General guidance only. Take tax advice before you sell if you're leaving the UK.
Other situations
- Your house isn't selling and nothing's happening
- Your house sale has fallen through
- Selling a house you've inherited
- Selling a house that needs work
- Selling a house during separation or divorce
- Selling a house with tenants in
- Behind on the mortgage
- When you owe more than your house is worth
- Selling a parent's house to pay for care