There is an alternative to the traditional route when it comes to selling your home. You can use one of the many specialist companies that offer to buy your house so that you're not at the mercy of a chain, or paying huge fees to agents and solicitors. Here are the steps you need to follow:

1. Decide how quickly you need to sell your home

Most quick sale companies can complete the purchase of your house within just four weeks. If you need to sell sooner than that, just say so; they can normally arrange a quicker purchase. If you're selling your house because you're relocating unexpectedly or because you're in financial difficulty, set a realistic timetable and ask the company if they can keep to it.

2. Decide how much you will accept for your home

You may not get the full open-market price for your property as you would with an estate agent, but you don't have to pay estate agent fees and the whole process is quicker which means you save on mortgage and bill payments. Look at the current market value of properties like yours in the same area and decide how much you're willing to accept from a specialist buyer, bearing in mind the other savings you are likely to make.

3. Talk to the companies

Always try to talk to the specialist companies rather than just contacting them over the internet. Talking to them gives you a much better idea about how they approach the sale. You can also take this opportunity to ask any questions about the process and to make sure that you can use your own solicitor to check the contract and that you won't be asked to commit on the spot.

4. Meet an agent

Most specialist buyers will send someone round to view your house. This allows them to give you an accurate and fair valuation and also gives you the opportunity to ask any further questions.

5. Agree the sale

Once you've been given a valuation, you will normally have a set period in which to think about whether you want to agree to the sale. If you decide to go ahead, it's a good idea to get an independent solicitor to look at the contract before you sign. Make sure you know if there are any additional costs to pay, and when you will receive the money. Also find out when you will be expected to vacate the property and whether the company can help you find other accommodation.

Getting a quick house sale is as easy as these five steps and can be accomplished in as little as 3-4 weeks, making it ideal for people in a wide range of circumstances, including those going through a divorce or bereavement or those who are in financial difficulty.