Estate agency frequently asked questions

Why use an Estate Agent to sell my house?

It has been said that moving home can be one of the most stressful things you ever do, so get all the help you can. Estate Agents know about selling houses and a good Estate Agent will provide help and guidance. The service will include guidance on the market price of your house, marketing your property and finding a buyer. They will also liaise with and chase people on your behalf i.e. Solicitors, Surveyors and the other parties involved.

Why use Cheshire Estate Agency to sell my house?

We offer a service you can rely on and our experienced staff know the area and the people in it. We are a member of the Ombudsman for Estate Agents (OEA) Scheme (opens in a new window) and take pride in our high standards and investment in training for our staff.

Our service includes:

• Prime town centre locations.
• Eye catching window displays.
• High quality sales particulars.
• Full colour local advertising.
• Multiple website internet advertising including the UK's largest property portal!
• Extensive regional office network.
• Pro-active sales techniques.
• Fully trained staff.
• Regular and constructive vendor feedback.
• Accompanied viewings whenever possible.
• All offers qualified - all sales progressed.
• Full lettings service if required.
• No sale - no charge!

We successfully sell homes!

How much can I borrow?

This is something you need to know before you start looking for a house. Take a look at our calculator which will help by advising how much you could borrow and our quick quote facility will give you an indication of the monthly amount you should expect to pay. If you are concerned about your credit history and the effect this could have on applying for a mortgage, you can visit Cheshire Mortgage Brokers (opens in new window) - just complete the online contact form and a Cheshire Mortgage Brokers Advisor will be happy to call you back and discuss your options.

How do I find out more about the property or arrange a viewing?

Your local Cheshire Property Services branch where our staff will give you all the help and guidance you need as well as make the arrangements for you.

Does it costs me anything to buy through Cheshire Estate Agency?
Absolutely not. There is no charge if you make a purchase via our estate agency - please don't hesitate to contact our estate agents if you would like to register your interest in a property across our estate agency branch network.

Are all homes listed by Cheshire Estate Agency on the Cheshire Estate Agency website?
Yes - our website is updated daily to display the latest properties as they hit the market.

Why do you require a phone number before you will arrange a viewing?
Some years ago an Estate Agent went out on a viewing and disappeared. The person who they were due to meet could not be traced because of a lack of details about them. Since then, all Estate Agents insist upon certain information, which includes a phone number (not a mobile number), before booking a viewing.

What is gazumping?

A commonly used term in property sales, where a seller agrees terms with a buyer for the sale of a property, but then accepts a higher offer from a subsequent bidder. “Gazumping” can only occur before the exchange of contracts, as the seller has a legal obligation to conclude the deal with the buyer, once contracts have been exchanged.

What is Gazundering?
A term used to describe the situation where a buyer agrees a price and then lowers his offer on the property, usually at a late stage in the negotiations. ‘Gazundering’ can only occur before exchange of contracts as the exchange of contracts fixes the price.

What is a chain?

This is a situation where there are a number of house sales that all depend on each other.

I've heard of a HIPS - what are they?
HIPS are Home Information Packs.
Since 14 December 2007 every home placed on the market, no matter what size, must have a Home Information Pack. The pack brings together valuable information at the start of the house buying process - such as a sale statement, local searches and evidence of title. The Pack also includes an Energy Performance Certificate that contains advice on how to cut CO2 emissions and fuel bills.

Do I need a HIPS?
If you want to put your home onto the property market then yes. You can speak to your nearest Cheshire Estate Agency branch about getting a HIPS pack before putting your property onto the market.

Where are your branches located?
You can find Cheshire Estate Agency branches in the following locations:

• Bramhall
• Buxton
• Cheadle Hulme
• Hazel Grove
• Macclesfield
• Marple
• Middlewich
• Northwich
• Romiley
• Sandbach
• Shotton
• Wilmslow
• Winsford

Cheshire Estate Agency Limited Registered Office : Castle Street, Macclesfield, Cheshire SK11 6AF. Reg. No. 2124903