The Agents

Simon Chaplin

Director

corporate division Christie+Co

The market has moved on in the last 12 months, turning from a sellers' to a buyers' market in many areas. However don't let this disrupt your plans if you were looking to move on this year. By making the best of your property you can still achieve a successful result. It's all about planning and making yours the best pub a buyer will see.

When you start thinking of moving, stand outside your property and give it a good critical look. Tidy up and decorate those areas in need, especially the entrance, as first impressions count. Look at your lease - if a rent review is due see if you can get some idea of the increase from your landlord. Although you may be looking to move on, your staff are legally covered, so it is worth checking that your employees have current contracts.

Get your latest year-end accounts ready and have these, plus three years' previous accounts, to hand if available, together with a copy of your lease. With a leasehold property you will need to inform your landlord and sooner is usually better than later.

Most landlords will take the opportunity to carry out a dilapidations survey to check you have maintained the property in accordance with the lease. This again is best tackled early as it can highlight any areas that could cause delays later.

Look at your asking price, keep it realistic and allow some room for negotiation as most purchasers will be looking to "do a deal". If you aren't open to this, be prepared for the property to remain on the market for some time, which could leave you having to consider price reductions.

Many prospective purchasers will make a customer visit, so you need to make sure that your business is looking and running at its best at all times.

Once you have an offer, then the benefit of having all your information to hand will start to become apparent. There is no doubt many sales fall through due to a lack of the required information and such delays can cause a buyer to be suspicious or begin looking at other properties.

By preparing for the sale well in advance you will have given yourself the best possible chance of achieving the

right price with the minimum of fuss, which is the aim of all those involved.