Blog Article

When you’ve accepted an offer subject to finance, time is of the essence. Buyers often have tight finance condition deadlines, and delays in your sale process can cause stress for everyone involved. The good news? With the right preparation and strategy, you can help speed up the sale and make it easier for the buyer to get finance approval.

Get Your Paperwork Ready Early

Banks require a range of information before they’ll approve finance. You can help by having key documents ready for the buyer’s solicitor and bank, such as:

• A recent LIM report
• A copy of the title and any easements or covenants
• Building inspection reports (if already completed)
• Council consent documentation for any renovations
• Property disclosures for issues that the buyer should be aware of

Being proactive with these documents means fewer delays once the offer is signed.

Present Your Home at Its Best

First impressions count, especially when time is short. Focus on quick wins:

• Declutter and remove personal items
• Freshen up with a deep clean
• Touch up paintwork and minor repairs
• Improve curb appeal with a tidy lawn and gardens

These changes can increase buyer confidence and reduce the chance of last-minute hesitations.

Be Flexible with Access

Buyers arranging finance often need property valuations, building inspections, and sometimes multiple viewings for decision makers. Make your property as available as possible for these appointments as it could save days in the process.

Consider Pre-Sale Reports

Providing your own building inspection or valuation upfront can fast track the buyer’s finance application. While some banks still require independent checks, having reliable reports available early removes uncertainty and speeds up decision-making.

Price Realistically for the Current Market

Overpricing can slow your sale, especially when buyers are racing to meet finance deadlines. Work with your real estate agent to set a competitive price based on current sales data and not just what you ‘hope’ to achieve. A fair and well positioned asking price attracts serious, finance ready buyers.

Choose the Right Agent

An experienced real estate agent who understands urgency can make all the difference. They’ll manage communication between you, the buyer, and the solicitors to keep things moving. Look for an agent with a proven track record of quick settlements in your area.

Stay in Close Contact

Your solicitor, agent and mortgage adviser will all play a role in ensuring deadlines are met. Keep the lines of communication open and respond quickly to any requests for information or signatures.

Final Word

In today’s market, buyers are often navigating strict lending criteria and tight timeframes. As a seller, the more prepared and flexible you are, the smoother and faster the process will be. The market remains challenging at present and so taking on board expert advice is critical to getting the best possible outcome which is something our team pride’s itself on.

If you’re planning to sell and want advice on how to structure your sale to support a buyer’s finance approval or make the next step up the property ladder, get in touch with the Mortgage Advice Company. We work alongside agents, solicitors, and buyers to make sure everyone’s in the best position to meet finance conditions on time.