Selling your home is a big step, and whether it’s your first sale or your fifth, you’re bound to have a few questions along the way. At Shinerocks, we’ve helped countless homeowners in Purley, Croydon, and across Greater London move successfully, and we’ve noticed the same key questions come up time and again.
Here are the ten most common, with straight, practical answers from our team.
1. How do I determine the right price for my home?
Pricing your home correctly is one of the most important parts of selling. Go too high, and you risk sitting on the market; too low, and you could leave money on the table. At Shinerocks, we provide a detailed, no-obligation valuation that looks at:
Recent comparable sales in your local area
Current buyer demand
Seasonal market trends
The individual features and condition of your property
We combine on-the-ground experience with local data to give you a realistic price that attracts interest and delivers the best outcome.
2. Should I make repairs before selling?
Definitely. Buyers tend to judge a home within seconds, so small issues can make a big difference. Focus on repairs that improve first impressions:
Fix leaks, cracked tiles, or peeling paint
Replace worn carpets or broken fittings
Freshen up paintwork in neutral tones
You don’t need a full renovation - just a well-presented, well-maintained home that signals “ready to move into.”
3. How long will it take to sell my home?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Some properties for sale in Purley, Croydon and Greater London sell within weeks, while others take longer. Factors that affect your timeline include:
Location and price bracket
Market activity in your area
How your home is presented
The time of year you go to market
We’ll always give you a realistic idea based on current conditions and your property’s unique appeal.
4. What’s the best time to sell?
Traditionally, spring and early summer are popular times to sell - gardens look their best, and buyers are actively searching. However, with our strong marketing and year-round demand, good properties sell in any season. The “right” time often depends on your personal plans and what’s happening locally. If you’re thinking of selling, call us on 020 8660 2010 and we’ll give you an honest opinion based on real-time market insights.
5. Do I really need an estate agent?
Selling privately might seem tempting, but most homeowners underestimate the work involved - from marketing and viewings to negotiation and legal checks. With Shinerocks, you get:
Expert pricing and marketing
Qualified buyer vetting
Professional negotiation to secure the best offer
Guidance from start to finish
Our clients often tell us that having us in their corner takes the stress out of selling - and achieves a stronger result.
6. How should I prepare my home for viewings?
Think of it as setting the stage for buyers to imagine their future there. Start with:
Decluttering rooms and storing personal items
Giving everything a deep clean
Adding fresh flowers or soft lighting for warmth
Tidying outdoor spaces - driveways, gardens, and paths matter
Small touches create a lasting impression, and we can offer specific styling tips to help your home stand out.
7. What are the costs involved in selling?
Budgeting ahead keeps surprises at bay. Typical costs include:
Estate agent fees (we’ll be upfront about ours)
Conveyancing or solicitor fees
Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
Mortgage redemption or exit fees (if applicable)
Removals or storage costs
Our team can help you plan for these so you have a clear picture from the outset.
8. Should I accept the first offer?
It depends. A first offer can be the best, or just the starting point. We’ll advise you based on:
How the offer compares to market value
Buyer circumstances (for example, cash buyers or chain-free)
Competing interest from other viewers
We handle all negotiations to make sure you don’t miss out on a strong opportunity.
9. What legal paperwork do I need to sell my home?
The legal process, known as conveyancing, requires several documents:
EPC (Energy Performance Certificate)
Property title deeds
TA6 Property Information Form (detailing utilities, boundaries, and fixtures)
TA10 Fixtures & Fittings Form
We’ll help you get everything organised early, so your sale progresses smoothly once you accept an offer.
10. How can I make my home more appealing to buyers?
Presentation sells. Bright, neutral décor, modern lighting, and tidy outdoor spaces can lift your property instantly. Other simple tricks include:
Adding mirrors to increase natural light
Replacing outdated hardware (door handles, taps)
Styling key rooms - kitchens and bathrooms in particular - to feel clean and fresh
If you’d like tailored advice, we’re happy to walk you through what buyers in your area are currently looking for.
What Next?
Selling your property in Purley, Croydon, or Greater London is a major decision, but with the right guidance, it doesn’t need to be daunting. At Shinerocks, we bring decades of local expertise, honest advice, and a personal approach that makes all the difference. If you’re thinking of selling or simply want to know what your home could be worth, call us on 020 8660 2010 or email enquiries@shinerocks.co.uk. Let us help you move forward with confidence.