Thinking of selling your property in 2025? You’re probably busy decluttering, touching up paintwork, and preparing for viewings. But there’s another step that can set your home apart and speed up your sale: ordering a pre-sale house survey.
Traditionally, buyers are the ones who arrange house surveys. But more sellers are taking a proactive approach — and it’s changing the game.
What is a pre-sale house survey?
A pre-sale house survey is exactly what it sounds like: a professional inspection of your property’s condition, commissioned by you before listing the property for sale.
It highlights any defects or potential issues, giving you a chance to fix them in advance or price your home realistically.
Why is it worth doing?
There are several reasons why more UK sellers are choosing to get a survey before putting their home on the market:
- Fewer surprises ─ Prevents last-minute renegotiations or deals falling through due to buyer survey results
- Faster transactions ─ Buyers are more likely to proceed quickly when reassured by an existing survey
- Trust and transparency ─ Demonstrates honesty, which can help build buyer confidence
What type of survey should you choose?
Most sellers opt for a Level 2 HomeBuyers Report. It covers key concerns such as damp, structural movement, roof issues, and general wear and tear. It provides enough information to act on without being as costly as a full structural survey.
If your property is older, has been extended, or you suspect underlying issues, a Level 3 Full Building Survey might be more appropriate.
Check out our house survey guide to compare your options.
How to use a pre-sale survey to your advantage
- Repair identified problems ─ Fixing issues upfront means a cleaner bill of health for buyers
- Set a realistic price ─ Avoids overpricing and discouraging buyers
- Show the survey to viewers ─ Transparency helps build trust and reduce objections
You might even find that buyers are more willing to offer the asking price when they know exactly what they’re getting.
What if problems are found?
Not every issue means disaster. Many are minor and easily resolved. But by discovering them early, you control the timeline and repair costs, rather than scrambling mid-sale.
Should sellers really foot the bill?
Spending a few hundred pounds might seem counterintuitive when you’re looking to sell. But when it means smoother sales and fewer delays, it’s often worth the upfront investment.
Some sellers even use the survey as a marketing tool, including key findings in listings or sharing it during viewings.
Who should you work with?
Choose a qualified RICS-accredited surveyor for your pre-sale inspection. Or speak to a trusted estate agent like Belvoir, who can help you find reliable professionals and prepare your home for market success.
Final thoughts
In a competitive 2025 housing market, sellers need every advantage they can get. A pre-sale house survey signals confidence, builds trust, and avoids nasty surprises that could cost you the sale.
Ready to sell smart? Learn more about survey options and connect with your local Belvoir office for personalised advice and expert marketing.
