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Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are Hamptons offering an Exchange scheme?

The market is relatively stagnant at present. We want to use every opportunity to create extra demand from sellers who may be waiting for interest in their own properties before looking for their next home.

In addition, many would-be sellers have assumed that now is the wrong time to sell even though we may have a buyer in waiting. By encouraging motivated sellers to let us know what they might be looking to buy we can establish if we have another seller who may swap properties or help form a chain. Either way, we make the move happen.

What is the likelihood of a seller with complimentary requirements to mine being found?

Having such a large database and network, Hamptons has a good chance of offering you a number of houses that might suit. We use our database to complete chains or facilitate a direct exchange. It may not happen immediately, but being part of Hamptons Exchange increases your chances of moving, rather than just waiting until you have a buyer.

I have to be looking for a more expensive home in order to take part in Hamptons Exchange?

No, because of our extensive network we have thousands of people looking to trade both up and down.

Will I need to drop the price of my property to move the chain?

Not necessarily. If your property is realistically priced (your Hamptons agent will offer advice on pricing) there should be no need to drop the price further. However, if your property is not realistically priced agreeing to take part in Hamptons Exchange is not likely to generate any more interest.

My property is listed with another agent; can I still register my requirements with Hamptons Exchange?

Yes, it is completely free to register your exchange requirements and explore what matches we may have. However, if we are able to complete the exchange by introducing a buyer to your property, we will require a standard sale fee from either you or your current estate agent.

What is a chain?

A property chain is a line of buyers and sellers who are all simultaneously involved in linked property transactions.

What is an example of a broken chain?

A chain is considered ‘broken’ when one transaction falls through – for instance, someone cannot get a mortgage. This may cause all the transactions to be held up or even fail entirely. This may mean you have to pull out of the purchase of your new property, causing a similar problem for the other seller.

Is it common for a chain to collapse?

Unfortunately, yes, particularly in the current economic climate. Research indicates one out of every three property transactions in England and Wales collapses.* This can come at the cost of the survey, the estate agent and legal fees incurred and all the time spent on the deal. All of these are non-refundable.

What can I do to keep the chain together?

Work with us to ensure we understand the chain and use Hamptons Exchange to make sure that chain is complete and reliable.

If I am at the bottom of the chain how does Hamptons Exchange work?

If you are at the bottom of the chain, in principle the seller at the top of the chain will purchase your property.

You will then proceed as planned with purchasing the property of your choice. The diagram below illustrates this:
I can’t sell and I’ve become a landlord – how can this help?

If your house is already tenanted this can put you in a stronger position for exchange, as your property can be passed on as an investment that is already set-up.

Are there any hidden 'catches' I should know about?

No. Hamptons Exchange is about matching up buyers, freeing up chains and helping to get you moving. There are no additional fees, charges or costs over and above what you have already agreed with your Hamptons agent.

My property has development potential. Can I benefit from this?

Yes. We recognise that some properties are ideal for development - even though the seller isn't in a position to manage this themselves. We can help by facilitating the introduction of developer buyers.

Is there any stamp duty saving by completing an exchange?

No, there are no stamp duty concessions given for part exchange property transactions. Normal stamp duty fees will apply.

Will completing an exchange affect my mortgage eligibility?

Purchasing a property via an exchange should have no affect on your mortgage criteria. The Hamptons International Mortgages team can provide you with assistance with all your mortgage needs.

If my house is not on the market at the moment can I take part in Hamptons Exchange?

Yes, registering your requirements is completely free, and there is no obligation. However, if you choose to sell your property via Hamptons you will need to instruct us and follow the standard vendor process before we can begin marketing your property.

Will entering in to an Exchange mean the sale / purchase process takes longer?

No, there shouldn’t be any reason for the completion of your property purchase or sale to take longer because it is a part exchange. In many cases it can be quicker as Hamptons will be dealing directly with both parties.

  Register interest in Hamptons Exchange for your property

 

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