9 top legal tips for selling your Gloucestershire property

You're ready to make a move and begin a fresh chapter in your life. But first comes the job of selling your home, to make it all possible.

SoGlos chats with the experts at Gloucestershire's WSP Solicitors to get the lowdown on the best steps to take to make the whole process just that bit easier.

We've rounded up the team's top nine tips, to help make the legal side of selling as stress-free as possible.

Get your documents in order

Selling your home can be both exciting and daunting. Whether you're upsizing, downsizing or relocating, preparing properly can make a significant difference in how smoothly the process goes — and how quickly you secure a buyer.

Before your property hits the market, gather all relevant paperwork. You will need to consider planning permissions, building regulations certificates, invoices for major works and service records for things like boiler maintenance. Having these ready helps your solicitor respond quickly to enquiries and avoids delays once an offer is made.

Tidy up the details

Minor repairs and freshening up decor can make a big impact once your house goes on the market. 

Estate agents often advise that first impressions count, so a lick of paint or fixing a dripping tap could help maximise interest. Try looking at your home with fresh eyes to see what could do with a bit of a makeover.

Instruct a conveyancing solicitor early

One of the most important steps is finding and instructing a solicitor as early as possible. 

WSP Solicitors encourage sellers to get in touch before their property is even listed. This allows them to prepare initial paperwork and forms, review title documents and flag any potential legal issues early. The earlier they're involved, the smoother the process tends to be.

Get an Energy Performance Certificate

This is an important one. An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is legally required before marketing your property. 

If you're unsure, your estate agent can help arrange this or WSP can point you in the right direction.

Engage the right professionals

Choosing the right solicitor is about more than just ticking a box. WSP offers a personal touch for those who prefer face-to-face meetings. 

Local expertise is valuable. The team knows the Gloucestershire property market inside out and has years of experience in conveyancing locally. WSP works closely with estate agents across the Stroud district, Gloucester and Cheltenham, ensuring joined-up communication throughout sales.

Find out more about the legal process in advance

When it comes to navigating the legal process, it's important to be aware of two key stages. These are exchange of contracts, when both parties become legally committed. Until this point, either side can withdraw.

The second is completion which is the day funds are transferred, the seller vacates and the buyer collects the keys.

Be mindful of communications

Regular communication with your solicitor and estate agent is essential to keep things moving and avoid surprises.

When it comes to digital convenience for clients who want to manage things remotely, the WSP app provides real-time updates on case progression as well as offering an easy-to-use to-do list timeline to keep everything on track.

Be patient and flexible

'How long will this take?' is one of the most common questions WSP hears. The truth is, it varies. A straightforward transaction might take eight to 12 weeks but complications or chains can extend this. 

It’s wise to avoid setting firm expectations for completion until contracts are exchanged. Flexibility helps reduce stress and keeps relationships with buyers positive.

Get in touch

If you're thinking of selling your home, WSP Solicitors can help. The experienced conveyancing team can guide you through every step, from preparing documents to handing over the keys. 

You can speak with WSP professionals through one of the offices serving Cheltenham, Gloucester, Stroud and the wider county.  For more information, visit wspsolicitors.com.