Buying and selling property

We want to help make everyone's property purchase go as smoothly as possible. Our guides provide an insight into the whole process whether looking to get on the property ladder, choosing a solicitor or overcoming financial hurdles.

Femal agent shaking hands with customer
How to make an offer on a house

Buying a house is a big step and can be quite daunting, that's why we’ve put together some tips to help make the whole process that bit smoother.

Woman looking at properties in window
Speed up your property sale

Something as significant as a property transaction will always take a bit of time, but there are ways to speed up the process. Download and complete our questionnaire which has been proven to help.

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Stamp Duty and Land Tax

This guide covers everything you need to know about how much Stamp Duty or Land Tax you could have to pay on your next home.

Mother and daughter viewing a garden
Get the most out of property viewings

It pays off to be thorough during a property viewing to make sure it is absolutely right for you. This guide lists everything you need to look for to make sure you get the most out of your property viewing.

Coins in jars moving from empty to full jars
Deposits explained

A deposit is paid upfront towards the full cost of a property. This guide will outline your options depending on how much money you have managed to save.

Green model houses on stacks of pound coins
Mortgages explained

Mortgages are a loan used to cover the overall cost of a property purchase. This guide covers everything you need to know, and how to find one that works for you.

Person holding keys by a door
How to get on the property ladder

Are you looking to buy your first home but not sure where to start? Here are some tips to help you get on the property ladder.

Male agent handing key to young couple
First-time buyer schemes

Take a look at all the first-time schemes available and how they differ depending on where in the UK you are planning on buying your home.

New build estate looking at houses with balconies
Buying a leasehold house

You need to know what your lease includes and understand any charges you may face after purchase, particularly if you're buying a leasehold house. 

Modern looking apartments
Buying the freehold to your flat

If you own a flat, it's unlikely that you will hold the freehold to the property so what are the benefits and pitfalls of buying the freehold?

Auctioneers gavel and microphone
Buying a property at auction: 13 Things you need to know

Auctions are a great way to avoid lengthy or uncertain buying procedures and bag yourself a bargain. We've highlighted essential points to consider.

Black house for sale board
Estate agent fees for selling your house

Estate agent costs can vary enormously so it’s important to understand exactly what you’re paying for when you're selling your property.

British passport
Money laundering checks when buying a house

Estate agents must confirm your ID and where you secured your funds to buy a property. This is standard practice, read our guide to find out why.

Handshake
Choosing a conveyancer or solicitor

A solicitor or conveyancer will handle the legal transfer of your property. They are a vital part of the process so it’s important to pick one that’s right for you.

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House insurance

This guide looks at the standard insurance options available to help you make an informed choice on which insurance is right to protect you and your property.

Plans and compass.
Getting a property survey

Surveys are carried out by licensed professionals to determine the value and what repairs (if any) are needed on a property.

Couple painting wall
Add value to your home before selling

A loft conversion or conservatory may reap high rewards if you have the time and money, but small things can make a surprising difference too. 

Japanese Knotweed
The dangers of Japanese Knotweed

Japanese Knotweed can jeopardise the sale of a property. This guide covers what to look out for and what your options are if you believe it exists on your property.

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Listed buildings

If you own or are planning to buy a particularly old property, it could be considered a listed building. If this is the case, there are some important rules and laws you need to be aware of.

Septic tank cover on ground
Septic tank regulations

Septic tanks in England can no longer discharge untreated sewage into a watercourse. If your discharge causes pollution, the Environment Agency can take action.

Woman thinking about something
Jargon busting A–Z

There can be a lot to get your head around when it comes to property. We've put together a list of common terms to help you beat the jargon.


Move iQ Property Podcast

We sponsored series 6 of the Move iQ Podcast. Join Phil Spencer, founder of Move iQ and popular presenter of Channel 4’s Location, Location, Location and a member of the Propertymark talk all things property. Below are the episodes that were relevant to buying and selling property.

Phil Spencer, Move iQ Podcast
Move iQ Podcast episode 1
26 Dec 2021
How to find a good estate agent

Wonder how to find a good estate agent? In this episode of the Move iQ podcast, Phil Spencer talks to NAEA Propertymark President Liana-Loporto Browne about what to look for – from identifying a good agent through to how to get what you want from them including relevant market information.

Move iQ Podcast episode 2
29 Dec 2021
Local estate agents vs property portals

In episode 2 of series 6 of the Move iQ podcast, Phil Spencer chats to Propertymark CEO, Nathan Emerson about how relevant local estate agents are in securing a successful sale or purchase.

Move iQ Podcast episode 3
05 Jan 2022
How to prepare to sell your house

So you’re looking at selling your home. Where do you even begin? During this Move iQ Podcast, Phil Spencer talks to our CEO, Nathan Emerson about the importance of doing the admin early to get a head start, decluttering your home, and why your agent is so crucial when it comes to being in a chain.

Move iQ Podcast episode 4
12 Jan 2022
When is the best time to sell a property?

Phil Spencer and our CEO, Nathan Emerson are discussing timing — and when is the best time to put a property on the market. From thoughts you should have about downsizing, to what you should consider if you’re relocating, it’s worth considering regional variations.

Move iQ Podcast episode 5
19 Jan 2022
Mistakes to avoid when selling your own home

Did you know that statistically, the second agent you approach is more likely to sell your home? In this episode of Move iQ's podcast, Phil Spencer talks to NAEA Propertymark President Liana-Loporto Browne about common mistakes made by sellers.