He had moved to France for work 12 years earlier, planning to stay for just six months – but life took a different course.

Over time, the property was left empty and gradually fell into disrepair. Mr S admitted that he felt unable to face the growing list of practical tasks, and with limited time or opportunity to travel back to Leeds, he felt stuck. Meanwhile, the costs of keeping the property empty – including 200% council tax due to its long-term empty status — continued to mount.

We first spoke via Skype, and after hearing more about the situation, we sent a detailed Empty Homes Doctor report, setting out the options available to him. After taking some time to consider everything, Mr S decided that selling was the best route forward.

Given the poor state of repair – but also its location in a sought-after area of south Leeds – the property was better suited to an auction sale.

We:

• Provided our Key Safe Service
• Invited trusted estate agents and auctioneers to provide valuations
• Liaised with Mr S’s family in Leeds to help manage the process on his behalf
• Supported him throughout the paperwork and legal process

The house was listed and sold through Auction House just three months later – achieving well over the guide price.

“Thank you for all your help and for holding mine and my family’s hand throughout the process. I could not have done it without you – especially from all the way down here in France. It really has been simplicity itself. If I’d known about Empty Homes Doctors earlier, I could have saved myself many sleepless nights!”

Because of our good working relationships with local firms, we were also able to secure discounted auction fees and reduced conveyancing costs, helping Mr S save money along the way.

After 12 years empty, the property was successfully sold within just four months of Mr S getting in touch with us – a great result, all handled from abroad with minimal stress on his part.