Stay on Top of Your Finances

What to Expect When Selling Your Property

When it comes to selling a property, most people focus on the sale price — but that’s only part of the financial picture. From legal costs and estate agent fees to mortgage settlements and potential taxes, the true cost of selling can add up quickly.

At Estazza, we help you plan ahead and budget smartly, so you're fully prepared and confident every step of the way. Here’s everything you need to know about the financial side of selling your home.

1. Estate Agent Fees

If you're using an estate agent, you'll typically pay a commission based on the final sale price. This is usually:

• 1% to 3% + VAT for sole agents
• Sometimes higher for multi-agency agreements

For example, on a £300,000 home with a 1.5% fee, you’ll pay £4,500 + VAT.

Estazza Tip: Always get the fee agreement in writing and check if it’s “no sale, no fee”.

2. Conveyancing and Legal Fees

To legally transfer ownership of your home, you’ll need to hire a solicitor or licensed conveyancer. Expect to pay:

• £500–£1,500, depending on the complexity and location
• Extra fees for leasehold properties or shared ownership

This covers tasks like title checks, contract drafting, and liaising with the buyer’s solicitor.

3. EPC (Energy Performance Certificate)

Before marketing your home, you must provide a valid Energy Performance Certificate.

• Cost: £60–£120, depending on the provider
• Valid for 10 years — you may already have one if your property was recently sold or rented

You can check your current EPC status on the UK government website.

4. Paying Off Your Mortgage

If you still have a mortgage, you’ll need to:

• Settle the remaining balance on completion day
• Pay any early repayment charges (if your mortgage is still within its fixed or tracker term)
• Cover an admin or exit fee from your lender (typically £50–£300)

Ask your lender for a redemption statement early on — it outlines exactly what you owe and when.

5. Capital Gains Tax (CGT)

If the property you're selling is not your main home (e.g. a rental, holiday home, or inherited asset), you may be liable for Capital Gains Tax on the profit made.

Key details:

• No CGT on your primary residence (usually)
• For other properties:
  • Basic rate taxpayers pay 18%
  • Higher rate taxpayers pay 28%
• Allowable expenses (e.g. solicitor fees, agent costs, improvements) can reduce your taxable gain

Speak to a tax advisor to calculate your liability and file any returns within 60 days of the sale.

6. Final Touches & Moving Costs

Preparing your home for sale might involve minor repairs, cleaning, or staging, which can cost:

• £100–£1,000+, depending on scope

Additionally, don’t forget about:

• Removals or van hire (£300–£1,000+)
• Storage costs if there’s a gap between moving dates
• Cleaning to meet sale contract requirements

7. Unexpected Costs to Watch For

Even with the best planning, a few extra charges can pop up:

• Additional solicitor work (e.g. resolving title issues or boundary disputes)
• Indemnity insurance if documents are missing
• Penalties for delays or failed transactions if timelines are not met

Budgeting for a 10% contingency buffer is a wise move.

Final Thoughts

Selling your home is a big financial decision — and being aware of all the potential costs puts you in a stronger position. By planning ahead, you’ll avoid nasty surprises, keep your sale on track, and protect your profit.

At Estazza, we’re here to help you navigate every detail — from valuations and paperwork to the bottom-line figures — so you can sell with clarity and confidence.