In simple terms,  An Assisted Sale is a flexible sale option for homeowners to sell their property directly to a specialist company or investor at a pre-agreed price. Unlike traditional sales, this method often allows sellers to receive market value—or even more—for their home, without the usual delays like waiting for a buyer or dealing with property chains.

The process is tailored to the homeowner’s needs, with several options to choose from:

• Assisted sale with cash advance: Get upfront cash to help with your move.
• Assisted sale without cash advance: Sell your home without needing immediate funds.
• Lease option: Rent your home back for a period before finalizing the sale.
• Builder assisted sale: Ideal if you’re looking to buy a new build while selling your current home.

Let’s dive deeper into each option and explore why an assisted sale might be the perfect solution for you!

1. Assisted Sale with Cash Advance

How It Works

If you choose an assisted sale with a cash advance, you’ll work with an investor, developer, or specialist buyer who offers this service. Here’s how it typically works:

1. Agreement: You and the buyer agree on a sale price and a timeline for the transaction.
2. Cash Advance: The buyer pays you a portion of your equity in the property upfront.
3. Improvements: The buyer takes over the property, makes any necessary repairs or renovations, and prepares it for resale.
4. Final Sale: Once the property is sold, you receive the remaining agreed-upon amount.

Benefits

• Speed: The process is usually completed within 12 months.
• Upfront Cash: You get a portion of your equity upfront, which can be helpful if you need funds quickly.
• No Responsibilities: The buyer takes over all property-related costs, including mortgage payments, council tax, insurance, and maintenance.
• Potential Profit: If the property sells for more than the agreed price, you may share in the profits.

Who Is It For?

This option is ideal for:

• Homeowners who need cash quickly.
• Those with properties that have structural issues or other problems that make them hard to sell.
• Sellers who want to avoid the hassle of managing repairs or renovations.

Who Should Avoid It?

• Sellers who don’t want to pay a 3% Stamp Duty levy (if they move into a new property before the sale completes).
• Those who prefer not to rely on solicitors or mortgage lenders, as delays or refusals can occur.

2. Assisted Sale without Cash Advance

How It Works

This option is similar to the cash advance method, but without the upfront payment. Here’s how it works:

1. Agreement: You and the buyer agree on a sale price and timeline.
2. Option Fee: The buyer pays a small fee (as little as £1) to make the contract legally binding.
3. Improvements: The buyer takes over the property, makes renovations, and prepares it for resale.
4. Final Sale: Once the property is sold, you receive the agreed-upon amount.

Benefits

• Speed: Like the cash advance option, this process is usually quick.
• Deferred Stamp Duty: You won’t need to pay Stamp Duty until the property is sold, and it’s reclaimable within two years.
• No Responsibilities: The buyer handles all property-related costs and maintenance.

Who Is It For?

• Sellers who have already moved out or have an empty property (e.g., inherited homes).
• Those who don’t need immediate cash and can wait for the final payout.
• Homeowners with properties that require minor renovations.

Who Should Avoid It?

• Sellers who need cash upfront.
• Those who may face cash flow issues while waiting for the final sale.

3. Lease Option

How It Works

A Lease Option (or Purchase Lease Option) is a longer-term arrangement where the buyer purchases the option to buy your property at a later date. Here’s how it works:

1. Agreement: You and the buyer agree on a future sale price (called the “strike price”) and a timeline (usually 3-5 years, but up to 18 years).
2. Option Fee: The buyer pays a small fee to secure the option.
3. Rental Payments: The buyer may pay you monthly rent during the option period.
4. Final Sale: At the end of the term, the buyer can choose to purchase the property or walk away.

Benefits

• Regular Income: You may receive monthly rental payments during the option period.
• No Responsibilities: The buyer takes over all property-related costs and maintenance.
• Potential Profit: If the property sells for more than the strike price, you may share in the profits.

Who Is It For?

• Homeowners in mortgage arrears or struggling with property upkeep.
• Those who want to generate ongoing income from their property.

Who Should Avoid It?

• Sellers who want a guaranteed sale (the buyer can walk away at the end of the term).
• Those concerned about fluctuating property prices (the strike price is fixed).
• Homeowners who don’t want to remain legally liable for the mortgage.

4. Builder Assisted Sale

How It Works

In a builder-assisted sale, you sell your property to a builder or developer and agree to purchase a new build from them. Here’s how it works:

1. Agreement: You and the builder agree on a sale price for your property.
2. New Build: The builder reserves a new property for you (usually for about four weeks).
3. Quick Sale: The builder works with an estate agent to sell your property quickly, often within six weeks.

Benefits

• Convenience: You’ll have a new home lined up before your old one sells.
• Speed: The process is usually very fast.
• No Hassle: The builder handles valuations and estate agent fees.

Drawbacks

• Limited Choice: You’ll need to purchase a property from the builder’s development.
• Lower Offers: Builders may offer less than other buyers to ensure they make a profit.
• Stamp Duty: You’ll usually need to pay Stamp Duty upfront.

Who Is It For?

• Homeowners looking to downsize or move into a new build.
• Those who want a quick and hassle-free sale.

Who Should Avoid It?

• Sellers who want more flexibility in choosing their next home.
• Those looking for the highest possible sale price.

Final Thoughts

Assisted sales can be a great option for homeowners who need to sell quickly, want to avoid the hassle of traditional sales, or have properties that are difficult to market. Whether you need cash upfront, want to defer Stamp Duty, or are looking for a long-term arrangement, there’s likely an assisted sale option that suits your needs.

Before making a decision, consider your financial situation, property condition, and long-term goals. And remember, it’s always a good idea to seek professional advice to ensure you choose the best option for your circumstances.

By understanding the different types of assisted sales, you can make an informed decision and take the stress out of selling your home.