Selling an empty house?

[RelocatorRelocator]

So we are yet to receive an offer on the house we're selling and we're thinking we're going to rent in the new location (so we can get the children into school) and continue trying to sell.

Any tips? I'm trying to get my head around what we'll need to do/who we'll need to tell. How does this work insurance wise for example? What might I have forgotten about?

I can't help thinking the house won't show quite so well unfurnished but the children are pretty unsettled by the uncertainty and I am worried we will lose school places if we're not careful. (It's a total relocation over 100s of miles so commuting is not an option!)

[wowfudge]

You could probably do with some more specialist advice and someone on here may have actually done this, however a few things come to mind:

You should speak with your insurers now so you know where you stand, what cover is required and whether they will provide cover when the property is empty.

Look into a key holding service with someone who will check on the place regularly. If there is no intruder alarm, have one fitted.

Employ a gardener to keep the garden tidy - has the added benefit of meaning there is someone around during the day every now and then.

Most councils will give a 6 month grace period when you move out when council tax does not need to be paid if the property is empty, but again worth checking on their website or over the phone.

Mail redirect, switch off the water, etc.

Your mortgage provider may need to be informed - check your paperwork.