Eight Things to Remember When Selling your House

Selling your home can be daunting, but Conveyancers are on hand to absorb as much as possible to ensure a smooth and efficient sale. Several legal aspects need consideration when selling a property, some of which can be satisfied before your property is even on the market, like ensuring you have a valid Energy Performance Certificate. As part of the conveyancing process for selling a property, paperwork is provided to collate as much information about the property as possible to ensure buyers have a good understanding of the property they are buying. The primary documents used in the process are the Conveyancing Protocol Forms, Property Information Form and Fittings and Consents Form. 

Understanding the legal aspects of selling a property can help you understand the work of a Conveyancer.  

This article will explore eight important issues to consider when selling your home in England and Wales. Many of these points are legal considerations your conveyancer will deal with as part of their standard processes. This article is designed to provide insight and understanding into the work carried out by a Conveyancer behind the scenes. This due-diligent work is carried out to help ensure the sale of the property progresses as efficiently as possible. 

Whether you are selling your home for the first time or you are well-versed in selling properties before, understanding what goes on behind the scenes can help ensure a successful and stress-free sale!

1 - Timing

The timing of when you choose to sell can significantly impact the sale price and the speed of the sale. Factors such as the time of year, market conditions, and the state of the economy can all impact the sale price, which we have seen all too much in the past two years or so. It is essential to consider these factors when deciding when to put your property on the market and to be prepared for the possibility that the sale may take longer than expected.

2 - Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)

A valid (in-date) EPC is a legal requirement when marketing a residential property in England and Wales. An EPC rates the property's energy efficiency on a scale from A to G, with A being the most energy-efficient. As well as providing valuable information about the property's energy use, it also provides recommendations for improving energy efficiency, which will help save on energy bills in the future. The certificate is valid for ten years and must be provided to the buyer before exchanging contracts. 

3 – Conveyancing process

The Conveyancing process involves all the legal work required to transfer the legal ownership of a property from the seller to the buyer. It is essential to work with a reputable conveyancer who can handle all the legal aspects, including preparing a contract pack for potential buyers, answering any legal queries concerning the property's title documents and discharging any mortgages or loans registered against the property on completion. 

4 – Protocol Forms

When selling a residential property, a seller must complete a Property Information Form and a Fittings and Contents Form.

The Property Information Form provides the buyer details about the property, such as boundary ownership, any disputes or complaints with neighbours, building works and renovations, and any valid guarantees or warranties. The Fittings and Contents Form lists all the items included and excluded from the sale, such as appliances or light fixtures.

5 - Property Boundaries

Many properties are sold without issue. However, properties with slightly obscure boundaries or those in remote locations can come under close review. It is important to ensure that the property boundaries are clearly defined, and that any disputes or maintenance agreements with neighbours are highlighted within the Property Information Form. If you need clarification as to the boundaries of your property, you can check your title deeds, commission an ordinance survey, or consult with a property lawyer to investigate further on your behalf.

6 - Repairs and Renovations

Tending to any repairs or renovations required before putting your property on the market is important, as this can make all the difference to potential buyers. Knowing how to present your home is vital. Buyers look to envisage themselves in the property, and making your home presentable to help facilitate that thought could be what secures the sale. Changing light bulbs, straightening picture frames, and a fresh lick of paint are just a few examples of things that can make all the difference in the eyes of a potential buyer.

7 - Estate Agent's Fees 

If you sell your property through an estate agent, you will need to pay their fees, typically a percentage of the sale price. The costs are only charged once your sale completes; however, you should shop around and compare costs from different agents to ensure you are getting a fair price. It is also important to check reviews and ensure you work with a reputable agent who will progress your sale effectively. Be open and honest with your estate agent about timescales and expectations. They are there to help you, just like your conveyancer.

8 – Removal costs 

Hiring a removal firm to help with your move can be costly. We recommend you shop around not just for cost but also for availability. Removal companies can get booked up quickly, especially at popular times of the year, such as school holidays and Christmas. Many removal firms will only take a confirmed booking once contracts have been exchanged, so it's key to keep in good communication with your firm of choice to ensure they have availability when you are looking to move. 

For help and advice selling your property, please contact our Conveyancing team on 01329 288121 or email enquiries@warnergoodman.co.uk. We can talk you through the process and provide a quotation to help you understand the costs involved with selling your home.