After that, things here moved very fast…
On Friday 12th January photos were taken of our house – inside and out – which, by then, almost looked like a show property. It was clean, smart and the decks had been cleared.
Indeed, that is a point of difference when compared with Sweden where it is not always customary to tidy up houses before they go on the market and make them look presentable in the photos. Quite often we see photos where it looks as if, for instance, Grandpa has just rolled out of bed and been taken to an old people’s home whilst washing is still drying on the line in the bathroom.
On Tuesday 16th January we both looked through the draft presentation drawn up by the estate agent. After a few adjustments, it went online on their website and was distributed to other local estate agents. Our house had finally been put up for sale on the silent market. An hour later the estate agent rang to ask if an interested party could have a look around on the Thursday afternoon. A purchasing estate agent would also be there to view the property.
On the morning of Friday 19th January, we received a good offer by phone. We had to scratch our heads. Would it be wise to accept such a quick yet good offer, might we not perhaps want to go for a higher offer?
Bearing in mind how much had recently been offered for two similar properties nearby we decided that this would certainly be a good deal. After consulting our estate agent early that same afternoon, it was decided that we would bring out a counter-offer.
Just over an hour later our terms of sale had been accepted and the date for the signing of the conveyance contract had also been accepted. So, an incredible 7 days after the photos had been taken the house had been sold to the first and only viewing party. It had all gone so fast that it took a little while for the reality to sink in.
At this point in time, the title deeds have been signed and we are now waiting for the bank guarantee to come through. All being well, this should be a mere formality.
We are happy with the present situation: now we can relax. Another step has been made in the right direction.
The thought that in the morning we won’t again have to clean up and clear up for any more prospective buyers before everyone we all go to work and school is quite a relief. It also makes matters easier for the children as well. No ‘for sale’ posters in the window and no need to answer endless questions from curious neighbours when we know that such a brief question necessitates a fairly extensive reply!
