Property Seller FAQs
Answers to the most common questions from property sellers.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about selling your property with Livco.
Getting Started
Everything you need to know before putting your property on the market.
Should I find a property before I go to market?
We usually advise listing your property before searching for your next home. If you fall in love with a property but haven’t listed yours, your offer may not be seriously considered. Marketing first also gives you a realistic timeline for moving and allows buyers to plan, while giving you time to find the right property without pressure.
When is the best time to sell?
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. The market can be seasonal, with activity often picking up in the New Year and summer months. However, it is also influenced by wider economic factors such as interest rates, stamp duty changes, and government announcements.
How much is my property worth?
We’d be happy to provide a valuation – get in touch and we can give you a clear idea of your property’s current market value.
Do I need to make repairs before selling?
Urgent issues such as leaks, structural problems, or anything that could deter buyers should always be addressed. Cosmetic refurbishments rarely guarantee a financial return, as buyers usually want to personalise their own homes and can often tell if a property has been “done up” cheaply to sell.
How do I prepare my home for viewings?
We recommend decluttering, keeping spaces airy and well-presented, and making sure the property is clean. Small touches like opening curtains and ensuring natural light can make a big difference.
The Selling Process
What to expect once your property is listed.
How will my property be marketed?
We market all our properties across the main portals including Rightmove and Zoopla. Additionally, we promote properties on our own website, social media channels, and in our office window display to maximise visibility. We also market directly to our database and communicate with all buyers whose criteria match your home, ensuring interested and qualified buyers are aware of your property as soon as it comes to market.
How long does it usually take to sell a property?
Most interest tends to occur within the first two weeks if the pricing, marketing, and messaging are correct. Offers typically follow within 2–4 weeks, although this can vary depending on the type of property, price bracket, and current market demand. We can advise you based on your specific circumstances.
Should I accept the first offer I receive?
This depends on the offer and circumstances. We provide professional advice to help you decide whether to accept, negotiate, or wait for a potentially better offer.
Legal & Financial Considerations
Important financial and legal matters to be aware of when selling.
Do I have to pay Capital Gains Tax?
You may need to pay capital gains tax if you make a profit when selling. In most cases, this only applies if the property is not your main home.
What fees are involved when selling?
The main costs are estate agency fees and solicitor fees. If your property is leasehold, you will also likely need to pay for a management pack. We can provide a full breakdown of fees so you know exactly what to budget for.
Can I sell a property with a mortgage?
Yes – the outstanding balance is settled on completion, provided you are not in negative equity. Check your mortgage terms, though, as fixed-rate periods may incur early redemption fees.
Leasehold & Building Questions
Common questions for leasehold flats and buildings.
Can I sell a property with a short lease?
Yes, but the sale price may be below market value depending on the likely cost of a new lease. It’s always advisable to check with the freeholder how much extending the lease will cost. Depending on the lease length, you may only be able to sell to cash buyers. Alternatively, you can extend the lease through the conveyancing process and offer a new lease on completion, which satisfies most lenders.
Can I sell a property that is tenanted?
Yes – you can sell to a buy-to-let investor willing to take over the tenancy. If the tenancy is coming to an end within a reasonable period (usually 4–6 months), you may also be able to market to owner-occupiers, which can often generate higher interest and offers.
My building doesn’t have an EWS1 form. Can I sell?
Yes, but it depends on the building. Buyers and lenders will want to know whether any required works are fully funded at no cost to the leaseholder and whether there is a timeline for a compliant EWS1 form. You should also check if your original developer has signed a remediation contract protecting leaseholders against costs. Keep in mind, this protection depends on whether you are a qualifying leaseholder.
Selling With Tenants
Guidance for landlords selling an occupied property.
Can I sell a property that is tenanted?
Yes – you can sell to a buy-to-let investor willing to take over the tenancy. If the tenancy is coming to an end within a reasonable period (usually 4–6 months), you may also be able to market to owner-occupiers, which can often generate higher interest and offers.
Browse Our Latest Properties
Take a look at some of the latest properties across our East London portfolio.
-
Chippendale Street, London, E5
£1,200,000 OIROA substantial Victorian end-of-terrace home set on a quiet residential turning in the heart of Lower Clapton, Hackney. Owned and maintained by the same family for over 30 years, this spacious property offers an excellent opportunity for both family buyers and investors alike.For Sale5 Bedrooms3 Bathrooms2 ReceptionsHouse -
Paragon Road, London, E9
£850,000 In Excess ofThis spacious four bedroom terraced house on Trelawney Estate, Hackney, offers well arranged accommodation suited to family living. The property includes off street parking and a practical ground floor layout, with a generous reception room and a separate kitchen providing good storage and workspace...For Sale4 Bedrooms2 Bathrooms1 ReceptionHouse -
Kingsland High Street, London, E8
£850,000 Guide PriceThis exceptional three-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment features a large private terrace. Perfect for entertaining, dining, or enjoying uninterrupted views, the terrace flows seamlessly from 1,087 sq ft of interior living space, creating a sense of openness and connection between inside and out.For Sale3 Bedrooms2 Bathrooms1 ReceptionFlat / Apartment -
Lee Street, City Mill Apartments Lee Street, E8
£700,000 Guide PriceA stunning two double bedroom, two bathroom apartment set on the 8th floor of the sought after City Mill Apartments, boasting a spectacular private roof terrace with breathtaking views across the City.For Sale2 Bedrooms2 Bathrooms1 ReceptionFlat / Apartment -
Beechwood Road, Zest House Beechwood Road, E8
£700,000 Guide PriceThis beautiful three-bedroom apartment occupies the sixth floor of Zest House, one of Dalston’s most sought-after modern developments, offering panoramic views across the London skyline. The apartment is flooded with natural light and features a spacious open-plan living and dining area that opens...Under Offer3 Bedrooms2 Bathrooms1 ReceptionFlat / Apartment -
Fifty Seven East, 57 Kingsland High Street, E8
£650,000 In Excess ofA well proportioned two bedroom, two bathroom apartment on the 12th floor of Fifty Seven East, a quality modern development in the heart of Dalston. The location offers excellent access to transport connections, with both Dalston Kingsland and Dalston Junction Overground stations close by.Under Offer2 Bedrooms2 Bathrooms1 Reception -
Marner Point, 1 Jefferson Plaza, London, E3
£575,000 Guide PriceSpacious south-east facing three bedroom, two bathroom apartment on the 5th floor with balcony and far reaching views across the London skyline, floor-to-ceiling glazing, and premium resident amenities, moments from Bromley by Bow Underground and DLR, offering excellent connections to Canary Wharf, ...For Sale and To Let3 Bedrooms2 Bathrooms
Other Services That May Interest You
Explore our full range of services for landlords and property owners.
Why Sell With Us
Thinking of selling instead? We make it straightforward and stress-free
Property Management
Professional, hands-off management that protects your investment.
Marketing
Professional photography, drone footage and virtual tours for your property.
Get a Valuation
What’s your property worth? Get an estimate from our local experts.




