The year 2020 is coming to an end, and there has been a lot of activity till now. From changing Tier restrictions, delays in the property purchasing or selling process, changes in regulations and the stamp duty holiday deadline looming closer and closer, adding to the pressure for all the people involved.

Whatever side of the property transaction you are on, buyer or seller, the whole process is undeniably stressful. The most excruciating aspect of the whole process is waiting, and this has been further extended by property searches, a rapid increase in applications and information gathering.

It can all get overwhelming, so we’ve put together our top tips to help you keep sane this festive season – especially if you are in the midst of a buying or selling a property.

1. Stay calm and positive

Though this is easier said than done, buying or selling a house is an adventure and with so many goal posts constantly changing. Try to remember how good you will feel when this is all behind you and what you have truly achieved. Always look for the good in each situation and stay calm and positive.

2. Seek advice from professionals

Speak to a reputable property consultant or brokerage firm that will advise you on the best course of action. Stonelink International is London’s leading bespoke real estate firm, so get in touch with your concerns, questions and points you would like to discuss. Expert help is only an email or phone call away.

3. Stay Organised

Keep all your paperwork in one folder (physically) and cloud (electronically), so everything is easily accessible and at your fingertips. Keep a checklist of what documents you need and where you are up to. Do not expect the laywer or conveyancer to keep you updated. You need to keep them on track constantly. Ring them, email them, message them and don’t be afraid to pull the file from them if they are incompetent or being unreasonable in the process. You have rights. There are many lawyers and conveyancers in town. Do not wait or you will lose the game. 

4. Know all the facts 

Learn everything about the process. What happens when? What are the average house prices?  How does the buying process work (break it down step by step)? What other costs will be involved?

You’ll be less stressed if you have a clear idea of how long the process will take, how much it’ll cost you, and what could potentially go wrong throughout every stage. You could even factor a 5% or 10% risk factor, because things don’t always go according to plan – especially in the real estate industry. 

Consult with your real estate broker and ask them to review the current market conditions with you, so you don’t wind up losing money on both ends of the deal.

5. Dedicate time to self-care

While it’s natural to skip a workout session or pick up fast food now and again whilst things are busy and stressful, don’t fall into the trap of making a habit out of it.

When you’re overwhelmed with process of buying or selling your house, it’s easy to let some of your good habits slide. This will only add to your stress and make the process even more overwhelming – especially if you doing it on you own withought any help. There are experts who can assist you. Consult with your real estate broker and use the time to focus on you. 

6. Establish worst-case-scenario contingency plans

Worrying about everything that can go wrong will only add to your stress and is not a smart way forward. Take control and minimise problems. We recommend you set a plan in place to cover whatever worries are on your top five (5) list of worst-case scenarios, and break down these assumption. You’ll find a whole lot less to stress about when you do this excercise.

7. Know that there are plenty more houses out there

As the popular  saying goes; “There are plenty more fish in the sea,” if the transaction happens to falls through for your dream property. At first it may be hard because you are so emotionally vested in the transaction, but start to understand that it isn’t the end of the road. There will be other wonderful properties that may be as good, if not better.

We recommend always keeping an eye out for back up options, even when in the midst of the process.

Here are some fantastic properties we currently have available: Property Listings

We trust you will find these tips useful and if you are worried about any aspect of your property transaction or process, please get in touch with us.

We will be happy to listen and advise you on the best course of action, as one of London’s leading bespoke property consultants and brokerage firms.