Thinking of selling this summer? You won’t be the only one. It’s one of the busiest times of year for property moves — which often means more chains and a few added complications.
Especially when your buyer is based in England, the whole process can slow down. But with the right support, you can stay a step ahead.
At Hastings, we do things a bit differently. Our estate agency and legal teams are under one roof, which means we’re all working together to keep your sale running smoothly.
Three Simple Ways to Stay in Control
1. Be Flexible if You Can
English chains can shift — sometimes by weeks. If you’re able to be a little flexible with your entry date, it could make all the difference. Even a short-term move can keep your sale alive if the rest of the chain stalls.
2. Speak Up Early
Got a hunch something’s not right? A delay, a buyer going quiet? Don’t wait — tell us. Our property and legal teams can jump in fast and give you straight answers.
3. Keep Your Options Open
If a chain starts to wobble, you’ve got choices. We can help you re-market with a flexible entry date, agree terms that protect you, or find another buyer quickly. The important thing is knowing you’re not stuck.
“Stay flexible on entry dates to keep your sale alive.”
Why Chains Get Tricky
Here’s the thing: Scottish and English legal systems don’t run on the same schedule. In Scotland, your sale is legally binding after missives are agreed. In England, it’s not binding until contracts exchange — and that can take weeks.
So if there’s an English buyer or seller in the chain, it can slow things down unless your team is keeping a close eye on it.
That’s Where We Come In
Because our legal and estate agency teams work side-by-side, we can spot problems early, chase things quickly, and keep your sale moving. You won’t be passed from one department to another — you’ll always know who’s handling it.
Ready to Sell This Summer?
Let’s make it a smooth one. Talk to our team early and we’ll help you move with confidence — and less drama.
Hastings Legal are trusted and long-established Solicitor Estate Agents in the Scottish Borders.
• Selling your property with a Solicitor Estate Agent means you have control of the process from start to finish.
• Our Virtual Viewing Video Tours are the New Normal for a first viewing and are included for no extra charge.
• Our extensive database of purchasers who are looking to buy their dream home in this area is at your disposal.
• Our advertising reach is both local and national including our High Street Offices, exclusive ESPC* and Rightmove
• Professional photographs as standard
• We regularly achieve more than the Home Report Value for our Sellers, often at Closing Date
See our guides: • Buying a House and • Selling your House Legal Process
Would you like to sell your house?