Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to common questions about selling, buying, letting, renting and choosing where to live in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire.

Recently Updated Advice

Selling a property

How much is my house worth?

Your value depends on location, condition, size, recent comparable sales and current buyer demand. Woodstead can provide a free, evidence-led valuation.

How long does it take to sell a house?

If priced correctly, many homes receive interest quickly. Once an offer is agreed, completion often takes around 8 to 16 weeks depending on the chain, mortgage, searches and solicitor progress.

What are Woodstead’s selling fees?

Our sales fee is 0.75%, inclusive of VAT, with a minimum fee of £1,700. We also offer No Sale, No Fee.

How should I prepare my home before selling?

Focus on decluttering, cleaning, kerb appeal, light, neutral presentation and fixing small maintenance issues. Our Staging Guide can help.

Do I need an EPC to sell my property?

Yes, most properties need a valid EPC before marketing. If you do not already have one, we can help arrange it.

Buying a property

What should I do before viewing homes?

Work out your budget, speak to a mortgage adviser, get an Agreement in Principle if needed, and register with estate agents so you can hear about suitable homes early.

What do I need to make an offer?

You will usually need your offer amount, buying position, proof of funds or mortgage Agreement in Principle, solicitor details if available, and your preferred timescale.

Should I get a survey when buying?

Yes, it is usually sensible. The level of survey depends on the property age, condition and complexity. Older or altered homes may need a more detailed building survey.

What happens after my offer is accepted?

Solicitors are instructed, the mortgage process begins, searches are ordered, enquiries are raised and contracts are reviewed. Once everything is ready, you exchange and then complete.

Lettings and landlords

Should I let or sell my property?

It depends on your equity, mortgage position, rental demand, tax position and long-term plans. Some homeowners sell to release capital, while others let if the rental return is strong and they want to keep the asset.

What does a letting agent do?

A letting agent can value the rental property, market it, arrange viewings, reference tenants, prepare tenancy paperwork, collect rent and manage maintenance depending on the service chosen.

What is Woodstead’s full management fee?

Our full management fee is 8%. This includes ongoing tenancy support, rent collection, maintenance coordination, inspections and landlord updates.

Do you offer rent collection?

Yes. Rent collection is available for landlords who want help collecting rent and receiving statements, but who prefer to handle maintenance themselves.

Do you offer tenant-find or let-only services?

Yes. Tenant-find can include marketing, viewings, tenant referencing and tenancy setup for landlords who want to manage the tenancy themselves.

What compliance does a landlord need?

Common requirements include an EPC, gas safety certificate where applicable, EICR, deposit protection, Right to Rent checks, smoke alarms, carbon monoxide alarms where required, and prescribed information.

Renting a property

What documents do tenants usually need?

Tenants are usually asked for ID, proof of address, income details, employment information and references. Guarantor details may also be needed.

Is my rental deposit protected?

For most assured shorthold tenancies, the deposit must be protected in an approved tenancy deposit scheme and prescribed information must be provided.

How do I report maintenance as a tenant?

Report the issue as soon as possible with clear details and photos where helpful. If Woodstead manages the property, we will advise the correct reporting route.

Areas and local advice

How do I choose the right area to live in?

Start with budget, commute, schools, property type and lifestyle. Compare areas using our Nottingham Area Guide to understand local property styles, amenities and buyer demand.

Which areas does Woodstead cover?

We cover Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, including areas such as Arnold, Carlton, Gedling, Mapperley, Sherwood, Wollaton, Aspley, Broxtowe, Hucknall, Woodborough and surrounding villages.

What are good areas for families in Nottingham?

Popular family areas often include Wollaton, Arnold, Gedling, Carlton, Mapperley, Woodborough and nearby villages, depending on budget, school preference and property type.

Which areas are popular with first-time buyers?

First-time buyers often compare areas such as Carlton, Aspley, Bestwood, Bulwell, Netherfield and parts of NG8 or NG5 where budgets can stretch further.

General Woodstead questions

Why should I register with Woodstead?

Registering helps us understand your budget, areas and property requirements so we can let you know when suitable homes become available.

How do I contact Woodstead?

You can call us on 0115 795 4564 or email info@woodstead.uk.