While it’s not always the case, from time to time, property chains can be the bane of those looking to move home lives. The more links, the greater the stress, with a nagging doubt over the chain’s strength never too far away from your thoughts as you inch towards completion day.
So, with all that worry keeping you awake at night, wouldn’t it be a good idea to find out how to keep a house chain moving forward rather than leaving things to chance? Of course it would...and this handy guide is all you’ll need.
Let’s get down to it, shall we?
Why choosing the right professionals matters so much
This article wouldn’t be necessary if every agent and conveyancer did their jobs properly, but we all know that isn’t always the case. Unfortunately, many promise the earth, but deliver very little. Sad, but true.
That’s not to say all agents and conveyancers fail their customers, far from it. In the majority of cases, both agents and solicitors will do all that they can to push things along, but some do leave a lot to be desired. That’s why making the correct choices initially is so vitally important.
Choosing the right estate agent and conveyancing solicitor from the get go will ensure that your sale or purchase is in safe hands, thus minimising the amount of work you’ll have to do as a result.
The importance of a Sales Progressor in property chains
Sales progressors are something that splits the industry straight down the middle. Some believe in them, while others think they’re unnecessary or their business doesn’t warrant employing someone who can specifically help sales move along smoothly.
If you’ve already read our post, What Is A Sales Progressor And Why Are They Important?, you’ll know exactly which camp we’re in. If not, go and check it out!
Keep on top of documentation to keep things moving
While the professionals should be doing most of the donkey work required to keep your property chain moving forward, there’s still a role for buyers and sellers to play as well. Thankfully, it’s fairly straightforward and doesn’t take an age to complete, although we can’t promise it’ll be fun to do!
As the subheading above suggests, all buyers and sellers should stay on top of their paperwork and process any incoming requests from their agents or solicitors as quickly as possible. Records should be kept, too, and any completed documentation should either be delivered by hand or special delivery in order to keep things moving along quickly.
Buyers should also make a point of getting their mortgage offer set up sooner rather than later. This can take up a huge amount of time (more than ever as we get to grips with the COVID-19 pandemic), so getting all your ducks in a row early will speed things up no end.
All of this may seem too basic to even warrant a mention, but you’d be amazed at how many buyers and sellers drag their heels over paperwork...and then complain about how slowly things are progressing further down the line! Don’t fall into this group. Keep good records and complete and return requested documents as quickly as you can.
How to keep a house chain moving forward - The DIY approach
If you’re already in the middle of a sale or purchase and looking for guidance on what you can do to help keep your chain moving, the only real option you have, other than those mentioned here, is to chase up those who are falling short.
Naturally, you may not always be able to get hold of the contact details of others in the chain to chase directly, but you can certainly follow up with those who are handling the move, namely your agent and/or solicitor. Ask them what’s going on and what their next move is. You can also let them know that you’re willing to help, if there’s anything you can do.
While it can be extremely annoying having to chase people to do exactly what you’re paying them for, it’s important you remain calm and polite when doing so. Venting your frustration may make you feel better in the short-term, but it’ll probably come back to bite you in some other way. Keeping it courteous will always stand you in better stead.
Communication is key to property chains remaining intact
Regardless of whether the professionals you choose to work with are good or bad, one thing remains constant if you want to keep the property chain moving forward: communication. Make a point of keeping in touch with all parties on a weekly basis.
Even if they promise to call you, but don’t, be proactive and call them to find out what stage you’re at and how things are going. They’ll soon get the picture that you mean business and will likely step things up a gear in order to satisfy your demands. You’ll also feel better informed, too.
That’s it! A lot will come down to making the right choice when selecting your estate agent and conveyancer, but you can also do your bit by being proactive, too. If you’d like further advice, or if you’re moving in East London or West Essex, drop us a line or give us a call to find out why we’ve been the local’s choice for well over a hundred years.
Elaine has worked in the property industry for 13 years. She is a formidable character. Her no nonsense style, capability and attention to detail is what makes her one of the most respected sales progressors in the business.
020 3370 8785 / Email Directly