The Costs of Selling a Property in the UK
Selling a property is not just about the asking price. Sellers should also budget for the practical costs of preparing, marketing, legally transferring and moving out of the home.
The exact cost depends on the property, tenure, mortgage position and whether the home is a main residence, investment property or overseas-owned asset.
Estate agent fees
Estate agent fees vary by service level, location and contract type. Before signing, check whether VAT is included, whether the fee is fixed or percentage-based, how long the sole-agency period lasts and whether any withdrawal or marketing charges apply.
A good agent should explain how the price, photography, portal exposure, viewings and negotiation strategy work together. The lowest fee is not always the best value if the marketing is weak or the sale takes longer than needed.
Energy Performance Certificate
You must have ordered an Energy Performance Certificate before marketing a property for sale or rent, unless an exemption applies. EPCs are valid for 10 years, so many sellers can reuse an existing certificate if it is still valid.
If the EPC has expired, your agent can usually help arrange an accredited assessor before the property goes live.
Conveyancing and legal fees
Your solicitor or conveyancer will handle the legal work, answer enquiries, prepare the contract pack and deal with completion. Leasehold sales usually involve more paperwork than freehold sales, so legal costs and timings can be higher.
Ask for a clear quote that separates legal fees from disbursements, bank-transfer charges, ID checks and Land Registry-related costs.
Leasehold packs and management information
If you are selling a leasehold flat, the buyer will usually need information from the freeholder or managing agent. This can include service charge accounts, ground rent details, building insurance, planned works and management company information.
Management packs can take time to obtain, so it is sensible to request them early, especially in London apartment blocks.
Mortgage, removals and preparation costs
Check whether your mortgage has an early repayment charge or exit fee.
Budget for removals, storage, cleaning and possible short-term accommodation.
Consider small repairs, fresh paint, garden tidying or professional cleaning before viewings.
Keep receipts for relevant improvement works if the property could be subject to Capital Gains Tax.
Tax to consider
Most people do not pay Capital Gains Tax when selling their only or main home if they qualify for full Private Residence Relief. Tax can become more relevant if the property has been let, is a second home, is owned by a company or trust, or the owner lives overseas.
Where UK residential property gains are taxable, reporting and payment deadlines can be short, so sellers should take tax advice before exchange if they are unsure.
Planning ahead
The smoothest sales usually start with paperwork, pricing and presentation in order before the first viewing. That helps avoid delays once a buyer is found and gives your solicitor more time to resolve questions.
If you are preparing to sell a London property, contact Allie Home at sales@alliehome.co.uk for practical advice on valuation, marketing and next steps.