Sotherby's Real Estate - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)

It's just good business for both of us. We save slightly on the price of your home, while you receive payment very quickly. Of course we are in the business of making money - but we do so in a transparent way with no hidden charges whatsoever.

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How fast can a Property be sold?

It is possible to exchange on a property in 72 hours. Please call us for details. On average, it takes 7-14 days for the entire buying process to be completed. Remember it is in our interest for you to sell your house quickly.

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What area does Sotherby's cover?

Being based in Boston, Lincolnshire, our coverage is mainly in the Lincolnshire area. We do not carry out valuations outside of this area - although we have many contacts who may be able to assist you should you live in other areas.

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What kind of properties do you buy?

We purchase flats, houses and bungalows. Whether it is leasehold or freehold, derelict, needing work or brand new - we will consider it.

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What is the maximum offer price you make?

We purchase properties up to the value of £175,000. Any properties beyond this value, unfortunately we cannot purchase at the moment.

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I am not yet in a position to sell my home - should I contact you?

Our service also suits someone wanting the certainty of a guaranteed sale. Some people like the idea of agreeing a sale with us - so they're seen as 'cash buyers' and enjoy a stronger bargaining position when they start looking for a new home.

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Do you buy land or commercial property?

Buying land needs specialist knowledge of planning regulations and development costs. Here at Sotherby's we have experience in this field and we welcome your enquiries.

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Is the condition of the property important?

Not at all. We're interested in everything, from newly-decorated homes to properties with major problems. If repairs are needed, we can take care of them. It's not a problem. If you need any advice about this, then call us - our contact details are here.

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Why do you refer to yourself as a cash buyer?

Because we have the funds - and we're ready to proceed right away. We don't need to delay the process by waiting for a mortgage company to approve the loan. That can take weeks!

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Do you pay commission for referrals?

Yes. We pay 1% of the purchase price as a referral fee. We'll pay this on the day of exchange. For more details, please visit our Refer-A-Lead page.

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I have a valuation from Sotherby's but don't want to sell yet?

Keep us in mind for the future. We can offer a variety of purchase options including delaying the exchange and completion dates to suit your circumstances.

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What do you mean by 'discount to market value'?

Estate agents have a tendency to have asking prices on properties far in excess of what they are really worth. This is partly because people generally have an inflated idea of the value of their own home and partly because by giving a higher valuation they are more likely to get the business. We calculate the true market valuation using actual comparable sales information and resources like the land registry. We then present this information to you in a full report on the property and it is for you to decide whether you want to sell or not.

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Do you carry out a structural survey?

Not usually as this takes time which you may not have at your disposal. Our valuers have a good enough idea, if we do decide to survey the property it would be one of our in-house, private surveyors and would take place within days. We don't use bank surveyors.

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Will my estate agent mind me selling direct to you?

They won't be overjoyed - because you're saving the likely 2-3% plus VAT they would have charged in commission! You get that money instead - and it's your right to sell direct. Please note that if you have already instructed an estate agent they may still try and claim a fee. Depending on the exact terms of any contract you have signed. Generally as long as you are not sole agency this will not apply. Even if you are sole agency then you can always cancel this arrangement.

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