Selling a commercial property is a different process from selling a house — the buyers are different, the paperwork is different, and for specialist buildings the audience can be small and hard to reach. Here is how a sale typically runs, step by step.

1. Get a realistic valuation

A good valuation looks at the property’s use class, tenure, condition and location — and, if it is tenanted, the strength of the lease and the income it produces. Pricing realistically from the start attracts serious buyers; overpricing specialist property usually means it sits on the market and goes stale.

2. Prepare your documents

Buyers and their solicitors will ask for the title documents, any leases and tenancy details, planning and use-class history, and service charge information where relevant. An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is normally required when a commercial property is marketed, so arrange one early if you do not have a current certificate.

3. Choose a specialist agent

Buyers for F1, F2 and E-class property — faith groups, schools, nursery operators, medical and leisure businesses — are a niche audience. An agent who specialises in these sectors, and who can put your property directly in front of a retained database of active buyers, will usually reach the right people faster than general marketing alone.

4. Marketing and viewings

Clear photographs, accurate floor areas and honest descriptions matter. Expect viewings to focus on the practical questions: lawful use, parking, condition, and what alterations the buyer would be allowed to make.

5. Offers, legals and completion

Once terms are agreed, a memorandum of sale is issued and solicitors take over through to exchange and completion. Whether the property is sold vacant or with tenants in place changes the detail, so take legal advice early.

Thinking of selling?

Glanix Commercials provides sales, lettings and valuation services for commercial property across London, Essex and Kent, with a retained database of more than 1,000 active buyers. Read about our professional services or contact us for a valuation conversation.