Tips for preparing your home for sale
by Richard Taylor, Partner, DOWNS Law Godalming Office
There are lots of guides about preparing your property for sale – making it “market ready”. Below is a non-exhaustive list of the steps that could be taken before a buyer is found to ensure the conveyancing process gets off to the best possible start.
Identity documents
Your identity will need to be verified.
Title documents of the house to be sold
Assuming the property is registered then up to date land registry entries and filed plan together with the underlying title documents should be obtained. The plan should be carefully checked to ensure it correctly delineates the full extent of the property to be sold. Any discrepancies should be brought to your solicitor’s attention.
Planning, building control, guarantees and new home warranties
Copies of relevant planning consents and building regulation completion certificates should be obtained along with any guarantees or new home warranties.
Protocol Forms
Most conveyancers adopt the Law Society’s Protocol and the transactional forms applicable to your own property should be comprehensively completed – this will help keep enquiries to a minimum.
Management packs
If your property is leasehold or subject to an estate charge then a sales pack should be obtained from the managing agents.
Tax
Consider and be aware of the tax implications. Have discussions with your tax advisor.
Energy, gas and electricity
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) will need to be supplied. For all electrical works carried out, copies of the safety and compliance certificates are needed. Similarly, for central heating, a copy of the completion certificate (CORGI or Gas Safe Register).
In these more challenging time delays kill deals. Involving your solicitor and working with them at an early stage will help ensure a comprehensive contractual pack is prepared allowing you to hit the ground running when a buyer is found.
For more information please contact Richard Taylor, Head of Residential Property Team at Downs Solicitors LLP 01483 411518 or r.taylor@downslaw.co.uk
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