SmartMove™ – Frequently Asked Questions

SmartMove™ by House of Hilbre is here to reduce the stress, delays, and fall-throughs that too often disrupt a move. It’s about getting the essentials in place early - things like legal documents, ID checks, and timelines - with optional tools like Heads of Terms or a reservation agreement to keep everyone aligned. Less waiting, fewer surprises, and more confidence on all sides.

Not at all. You’re welcome to use your own solicitor. That said, we do recommend local firms we know are proactive and familiar with SmartMove™ timelines - but the choice is always yours.

Not from us. There’s no extra charge from House of Hilbre. Your solicitor may charge for certain documents (like a reservation agreement or early searches), but we’ll always explain any costs clearly before you opt in.

Yes. You can join SmartMove™ at any point - whether at the beginning of your search or after an offer is made. Earlier is ideal for maximum benefit, but it’s never too late to bring in some clarity.

It’s entirely optional. If only one side takes part, we can still use many of the tools (like early info packs or agreed timelines). Mutual tools like Heads of Terms just work best when both buyer and seller are on board.

No - contracts only become binding on exchange. But SmartMove™ can include an optional reservation agreement, which adds clarity and reduces the risk of gazumping or gazundering. It’s about commitment, not contract.

It’s a short, written summary of what’s been agreed - price, timeline, conditions. It’s not legally binding, but it helps everyone stick to what’s been discussed and reduces confusion later on.

Key documents, prepared early. This includes things like title deeds, TA6 and TA10 property forms, and anything helpful for the buyer (like warranties or lease info). It’s all about getting ahead of the usual delays.

In some cases, yes. We can explore whether it makes sense to commission searches through your solicitor before a buyer is in place. It’s not always the right move, but for certain properties it can save time. We’ll walk you through the pros, costs, and whether a buyer’s solicitor or lender is likely to accept them.

Usually, no. As part of our Offer-Ready Policy, we continue marketing a property until the buyer can show they’re ready to proceed - with a solicitor instructed and finances confirmed.

Too often, homes are taken off the market too early - only for a sale to fall through weeks later. Our approach helps avoid that, keeps things moving, and protects everyone’s time and trust. This protects sellers from avoidable delays or fall-throughs and ensures any accepted offer is based on more than just intention.

We ask all buyers to share key details (like proof of funds, chain info, and solicitor plans) before an offer is accepted. It helps avoid misunderstandings, reduces the risk of fall-throughs, and makes things clearer from the start. We call this our Offer-Ready approach.

That said, sellers have the final say. If they choose to pause marketing earlier, we’ll respect that - and always communicate clearly with everyone involved.

That’s the aim. By sorting documents early, agreeing expectations upfront, and removing unknowns, SmartMove™ often helps shave weeks off the usual timeline - and can make the whole process feel more under control.

We don’t have a high street office (yet!) - instead, we meet by appointment, at your home or a local spot that suits you. That way, we can give you our full attention - no distractions, no waiting rooms.

💬 Still have questions?
We’re happy to chat - whether you’re planning a move, weighing up SmartMove™, or just curious about how it works.