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.
-
Paragon Road, Hackney
£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 -
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 -
Makers Yard, Skyline Apartments, E3
£500,000 Guide PriceA stylish two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment spanning 757 sq. ft. is available within the Three Waters, Bow Creek development, E3, located just a short walk from Bromley-by-Bow station. This modern apartment features an open-plan kitchen, built-in wardrobes, large windows, and a private balcony wit...For Sale2 Bedrooms2 Bathrooms1 Reception -
Marner Point, 1 Jefferson Plaza, London, E3
£2,800 pcmSpacious 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, ...To Let3 Bedrooms2 Bathrooms -
Marner Point, Bow
£475,000 Guide PriceA well-presented three bedroom, two bathroom apartment set within a popular modern development in Bow, E3.For Sale and To Let3 Bedrooms2 Bathrooms1 ReceptionFlat / Apartment -
Curie House, Hackney Wick
£425,000 Guide PriceA bright and spacious one bedroom apartment set on the third floor of a luxury development in the heart of Hackney Wick.For Sale1 Bedroom1 Bathroom1 ReceptionFlat / Apartment -
Hatch Building, Berkshire Road, E9
£425,000 Guide PriceA bright and spacious one bedroom apartment set on the fourth floor of the sought-after Harch Building, a luxury development in the heart of Hackney Wick.For Sale1 Bedroom1 Bathroom1 ReceptionFlat / Apartment -
Wallis Road, E9
£400,000 In Excess ofA bright and spacious one-bedroom apartment located on the fourth floor of a modern luxury development in the heart of Hackney Wick, offered chain free.For Sale1 Bedroom1 Bathroom1 ReceptionFlat / Apartment
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.




