If you want to sell without months on the open market, a private sale is often the most straightforward option. We introduce your property directly to cash buyers and property investors we have vetted, help you weigh up any offers, and stay involved until the sale completes.
How a quick, private sale works
- You tell us about the property. Where it is, its condition, whether it is tenanted and when you would like to sell.
- We talk it through. Phoebe or Poppy explains whether a private sale is likely to suit you, what buyers are likely to offer and why, and how we are paid. We may ask for photos or arrange to see the property.
- We introduce suitable buyers. We share the details privately with buyers who are a good fit for the property. They may want to view it before making an offer.
- You decide. We explain each offer plainly, including any conditions, and negotiate on your behalf.
- We see it through. Once you accept, we keep in touch with both solicitors and chase until the sale completes.
Cash buyer or property investor?
The two often overlap, and some buyers are both. The main differences:
- Cash buyers have their funds ready and do not need a mortgage, so they can usually move quickest. Their offers reflect the speed and certainty they provide.
- Property investors buy to let or to improve. Many are happy to keep tenants in place, which makes them a natural buyer for rental properties and portfolios. Some buy with cash; others use buy-to-let finance, which adds time.
We will tell you which kind of buyer is likely to suit your property, and why.
What to expect
Price. A private sale usually achieves less than the open market might, because buyers are offering speed, certainty and convenience. How much less depends on the property and the market. We will give you an honest view before you decide, including whether you would be better off waiting.
Speed. A cash buyer can complete in as little as 7 days once the solicitors are ready. An investor sale typically takes 6 to 12 weeks. Searches, leases, probate or a buyer using finance can add time.
Certainty. There is no onward chain, and buyers have shown they can proceed before you accept. Buyers can still pull out or renegotiate before exchange, particularly after a survey. If terms change, we tell you straight away and explain why.
Costs. Sellers don’t usually pay us directly: the buyer pays us, or we agree a net figure with you. On investor sales we usually put an amount towards your legal fees. Before you agree to anything, you will know the exact net figure you will receive.
When a private sale is not the right fit
If your property would sell well on the open market and you have time, an estate agent may achieve a better price. If you want a fixed timetable and competitive bidding, auction may suit you. Because we offer all four routes, we can recommend the one that fits, not just the one we would prefer.
Read more about what an off-market sale means, or compare all four selling routes.