Want to sell your house fast? Here are your options
If you need to sell your house fast, the quickest and most reliable route is usually through a professional cash house buyer. These companies can buy your home in weeks, not months. Other options include selling through an estate agent, using auctions, or doing a part-exchange with a developer. Each has pros and cons depending on your goals, timeline, and property type.
This guide breaks down your main options for selling quickly in the UK, including what to expect with price, timelines, and certainty.
Key points include:
- Selling to a reputable cash buyer is the fastest and most guaranteed method.
- Auctions can work well but have variable outcomes and strict timelines.
- Estate agent strategies can help speed up a slower sale — including price cuts and switching agents.
- Part-exchange options are available when buying a new-build.
- Buyer psychology, the economy, and your marketing strategy all influence how quickly your home sells.
Fast sale methods compared
If speed is your top priority, here’s how each option stacks up:
Cash house buyers
Selling to a cash house buying company is the fastest and most secure option. These companies will give you a no-obligation quote, often within 24 hours, and can complete in as little as 7 days if needed.
How it works
- You request a free valuation (usually online).
- The company assesses your property and makes an offer.
- If you accept, legal checks begin and a completion date is set — often within a week or two.
- You receive funds directly, with no estate agents or chains involved.
What you’ll typically get
Cash buyers usually pay between 80%-90% of the property's current market value, but the trade-off is speed and certainty.
When it makes sense
- You’re facing repossession or financial difficulties.
- You’ve inherited a property and want a quick sale.
- You’re going through divorce or separation.
- The property is in poor condition or has legal issues.
How to get a cash offer for your home
Getting a cash offer starts with a simple online form. You'll be asked to provide details about your property, such as the address. From there, a member of the team will be in touch to discuss your situation, arrange a valuation, and then present you with a no-obligation offer. The entire process is designed to be fast, straightforward, and stress-free.
Here’s how it works:
- Step 1: Complete the online enquiry form with basic property details.
- Step 2: A team member will call or email you to understand your needs and timeline.
- Step 3: A valuation is carried out remotely or in person, depending on the property.
Step 4: You receive a formal cash offer. If you accept, legal paperwork begins, and completion can happen in as little as 7 days.
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Selling at auction
Auctions offer more speed than the open market and legal certainty once a bid is accepted.
How it works
- You list your home with a reserve price.
- Buyers attend an auction (in person or online) and bid.
- Once the hammer falls, the buyer is legally committed to pay a deposit and complete within 28 days.
What you’ll typically get
Sale prices can vary — some homes fetch market value or more, but many sell for less. Factor in auction fees (often 2–3%) and legal costs.
Traditional vs modern auctions
- Traditional: Legal exchange on the day of auction. Fast, but requires a complete legal pack beforehand.
- Modern method: Buyers pay a non-refundable reservation fee and have 56 days to complete. Slightly more flexible, often done online.
Preparing to sell at auction
- Hire a solicitor to prepare a legal pack.
- Set a realistic reserve price.
- Choose an auction house with experience selling similar homes.
What if your property doesn’t sell?
You may be charged listing fees. You can relist at a future date, adjust the reserve, or explore other options like a direct sale.
Selling with an estate agent
If you don’t want to take a discount but still want to sell quickly, a strong estate agent strategy can help.
Tips to sell faster on the open market
- Set a realistic asking price from the start. Overpricing leads to slow sales and price cuts later.
- Price banding: Position your price just below major search thresholds (e.g. £249,999 instead of £255,000).
- Professional photos and listings: These make a huge difference. Properties with professional photography get more clicks and sell faster.
- Use premium listings: Sites like Rightmove and Zoopla offer featured placements.
- Offer virtual tours: This can increase viewing requests and appeal to remote buyers.
- Accommodate flexible viewings: Evening and weekend slots help more people see your property.
Should you reduce the price?
- A 10% reduction is often needed to reach new buyer groups.
- Properties priced correctly from day one sell up to 26 days faster on average.
- Repeated small drops can make buyers think something’s wrong.
Should you switch estate agents?
- If your home isn’t getting interest, it might be time to change.
- Check your contract for tie-in clauses or long notice periods.
- See our full blog: Can you change estate agents?
Part-exchange with a developer
Some new-build developers offer part-exchange schemes, buying your current property so you can move quickly.
Pros
- No chain delays.
- Quick timelines — often around 4 to 12 weeks.
- Certainty of sale if your property is eligible.
Cons
- Not all homes qualify. Leaseholds or very old properties may be excluded.
- Offers are usually below market value.
- You can’t shop around for the best deal — it’s tied to the developer.
Tips
- Ask developers if they offer incentives alongside part exchange (e.g. legal fees, stamp duty).
- Get an independent valuation so you understand what your home is really worth.
Reasons your property might be selling slowly
Even with good marketing, some homes take longer to sell. Here’s why.
Market factors
- Interest rates: Higher rates reduce buyer affordability.
- Economic uncertainty: Bad news headlines can spook buyers.
- Stamp duty changes: These can cause spikes or slowdowns in buyer activity.
Property-specific factors
- Overpricing: The number one reason homes stay stuck.
- Poor listing: Bad photos, vague descriptions, or incorrect data turn people off.
- Condition: Buyers are hesitant about major renovation work.
- Legal or lease issues: Short leases, disputes, or unclear boundaries can deter offers.
Controllable solutions
- Improve the listing quality.
- Consider staging your home.
- Switch agents or reduce the price.
Selling your home fast FAQs
How fast can I sell a house with a mortgage?
Very fast — having a mortgage doesn’t prevent a quick sale. Most buyers, including cash companies, handle mortgage redemption for you.
Can I sell a house before probate completes?
No. You can market the property, but you can’t complete the sale until probate is granted.
Can I sell if I’m in negative equity?
Yes, but you’ll need to cover the shortfall. Some cash buyers or lenders may work with you, but legal and financial advice is essential.
Is a 7-day house sale really possible?
Yes, especially through experienced cash buyers. You’ll need legal paperwork ready and be responsive throughout the process. We also advise using partner solicitors for a faster turnaround (and no fees!).
Is now the right time to sell your home?
If you’re ready to move, simplify your finances, or just want certainty in a changing market, we can help.
Get a no-obligation cash offer from Habello today.
No fees. No stress. Just a simple, fast sale when you need it most.
Property owners are choosing Habello for a faster, easier and less stressful way to sell
Sell your home quickly for cash by accepting an offer just below market value. See how we compare to your other options by using the calculator below.
