Selling your home can feel a bit overwhelming, especially when you’re not sure about all the legal stuff. But don’t worry – we’ve got you covered. There are a few straightforward steps you should take to get everything in order, and once you know what they are, the process will feel a lot easier.
Get a conveyancer on board
The first thing you should do is find a conveyancer or solicitor. This person will handle all the legal work for you, from paperwork to making sure the sale goes smoothly.
Make sure you choose someone who’s experienced and easy to talk to, as you’ll be working closely with them.
Fill out property information forms
You’ll have to complete a few forms about your property before it’s put on the market. These forms ask for things like the condition of the house and any issues you might know about (e.g., repairs needed or disputes with neighbours).
It’s important to be honest here. If anything comes up later that you didn’t mention, it can cause delays or even mess up the sale.
Get an EPC
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) shows how energy-efficient your home is. You’ll need to get an energy assessor to check it out and issue the certificate. It’s a simple process that takes about an hour.
An EPC can last for ten years, so if you’ve already got one, check if it’s still valid. If your home has a low rating, you might want to consider making some energy-saving improvements before you list it – it can help make your home more attractive to buyers.
Complete additional forms
Besides the basic property details, there are a couple of other forms you’re required to fill out. One of them is the Fittings and Contents form, where you list what’s staying in the house and what’s being taken with you. This helps avoid any confusion for the buyer, so it’s a good idea to be clear about what’s included.
Verify your title deeds
Title deeds are proof that you own your home. Your conveyancer will need to check these to make sure there’s nothing legally stopping you from selling.
If you’ve lost your deeds, don’t panic – your conveyancer will help you get a replacement. It’s important to sort this out early to avoid any hold-ups when you’re ready to sell.
Sort out your mortgage
If you still owe money on your mortgage, you must inform your lender that you’re selling. They’ll give you a statement showing how much is left to pay.
When the house is sold, the lender gets their share first. If there’s any leftover balance after the sale, you’ll have to settle that. It’s a good idea to chat with your lender early in the process to make sure everything’s lined up.
Stay organised for a smooth sale
Selling a property doesn’t have to be stressful if you know what to expect. By ticking off the steps outlined above, you’ll be well on your way to a smooth sale. Be proactive, and you’ll avoid last-minute headaches and feel confident that everything’s sorted.
