In a quiet suburb just outside of Manchester, Emma, a 38-year-old marketing consultant, stood by her window, watching raindrops trickle down the glass. She had lived in this house for nearly a decade, but with her kids growing up and her remote job taking her to new places, it was time to move.

But where to begin?

This is the story of how Emma sold her house—and what you can learn from her 10-step journey through the UK housing market.

Step 1: Realising It Was Time to Move On

Emma’s decision didn’t happen overnight. She weighed the pros and cons for weeks—reviewed her finances, checked local listings, and even spoke to her mortgage lender. There were early repayment charges, moving costs, and emotional attachments to consider.

But with a rising market and a job opportunity in Bristol, she decided: it was time to sell.

Step 2: Getting a Realistic Valuation

Emma invited three estate agents from her area. One gave a sky-high figure, another was more conservative, and the third gave detailed comparables from similar houses nearby.

She didn’t go with the highest bidder. Instead, she chose the agent who explained why her house would attract a certain price. It felt like the most honest and data-backed approach.

Step 3: Choosing the Right Way to Sell

Emma considered using an online agent to save money, but ultimately chose a high-street estate agent with great reviews. Their personal touch, local knowledge, and full-service package—including photography, listings, and managing viewings—won her over.

“Peace of mind is worth the fee,” she thought.

Step 4: Preparing the Home for Buyers

Emma rolled up her sleeves. She:

• Painted over the old nursery's bright yellow walls

• Fixed the squeaky floorboards in the hallway

• Hired a cleaner for a deep spring clean

Then came staging: removing family photos, setting the dining table, and filling the rooms with light. Her agent brought in a professional photographer who made her house look magazine-ready.

The listing was now live on Rightmove, Zoopla, and OnTheMarket.

Step 5: Let the Viewings Begin

The first weekend brought three viewings. Emma stayed out while her agent showed potential buyers around. She left soft music playing, fresh flowers in the hallway, and even baked cookies for that “homely” feel.

Buyers asked questions about schools, commute times, and utility costs. Emma kept a one-pager ready with all the details.

By Tuesday, she had two offers.

Step 6: Accepting the Right Offer

One offer was slightly higher, but the buyer hadn’t sold their home yet. The second was a bit lower—but chain-free and mortgage-approved.

Emma went with the second. Certainty trumped a few extra pounds.

Step 7: Hiring a Conveyancer

Emma contacted a solicitor she had used before. They sent her property information forms (TA6, TA10) to fill out, asked for ID, and started handling the legal work.

Within a week, Emma’s solicitor was in touch with the buyer’s side. The process had officially begun.

Step 8: Surviving the Legal Maze

Searches, contracts, and queries followed. The buyer’s solicitor wanted more info on a conservatory Emma had built five years ago. Luckily, she had kept all the planning documents.

A survey was done, and a few negotiations happened around minor repairs. Her solicitor kept her in the loop with every update.

Step 9: Exchange Day

Emma’s phone buzzed. “Contracts exchanged. Completion next Friday.”

She felt a mix of relief and anxiety. It was now legally binding. The buyer had paid their deposit, and she had just days to pack.

Step 10: Completion and Moving Day

On a sunny Friday morning, the funds hit her solicitor’s account. Emma handed over the keys to her estate agent and locked the door one last time.

She walked out with a bittersweet smile, knowing she was ready for the next chapter in Bristol.

The Takeaway

Emma’s journey reflects what every UK seller faces:

1. Make sure you’re emotionally and financially ready.

2. Get realistic valuations.

3. Choose the right method to sell.

4. Prepare and stage your home.

5. Nail your online listing.

6. Manage viewings smartly.

7. Evaluate offers with care.

8. Use a reliable solicitor.

9. Handle the legal stage patiently.

10. Close the deal—and move on with confidence.

Thinking of selling your house in the UK? Follow Emma's steps to do it right the first time.