FAQ
Frequently asked questions
How fast can I sell my house in the UK?
There is no guaranteed timetable. Finding a buyer, mortgage approval, searches and linked sales affect timing. Our timeline tool uses planning assumptions, not measured national averages.
How much do cash house buyers pay?
Quick-sale companies usually offer below market value. Compare independent valuations and written offers; our cash-offer ranges are illustrative assumptions, not market averages.
Are quick-sale companies regulated?
Check the buyer’s redress scheme, trade-body membership, company filings and written terms. The OFT investigated misleading practices in this sector in 2013–14; registration or membership alone does not guarantee a safe sale.
Do I pay estate agent fees with a cash buyer?
A direct sale without an agent avoids agent commission, but the buyer may have other charges. Confirm any legal-fee contribution and all charges in writing.
Can I sell a house with a mortgage?
Yes. Your mortgage is repaid from the sale proceeds at completion. Check for early repayment charges.
Do I pay tax when I sell my home?
Not usually on your main residence thanks to Private Residence Relief. Second homes and rentals may be liable for Capital Gains Tax.
Can I pull out after accepting an offer?
In England and Wales an accepted offer is normally not binding until exchange. Withdrawing after a binding contract can have serious financial consequences; auctions and Scotland use different arrangements.
Does this site buy houses?
No. This is an independent information site. We don't buy property or collect enquiries.
Sources & review
Last reviewed:
Legal-process explanations primarily cover England and Wales. No national average price discount, completion time or fall-through rate is claimed here; calculator figures are labelled scenarios.
- GOV.UK — How to sell a home
England and Wales: selling costs, paperwork, leasehold information, valuations, chains and legally binding exchange (sections 2–7, 16–17 and 21–22).
- CMA / OFT — Quick house sales investigation
Historical investigation (2013–14): quick-sale firms usually buy at a discount; undertakings address misleading offers, price reductions and completion promises. This is not a current market-price or speed survey.
- HMRC — Tax when you sell your home
Private Residence Relief can exempt a qualifying main home; second homes and let properties may create a taxable gain. Relief has conditions.
- GOV.UK — Energy Performance Certificates
An EPC must normally be ordered before marketing for sale or rent; exemptions apply.
Review dates record our source check, not the date a rule took effect. Rules can change; check the linked guidance before acting. Legal processes differ across the UK.