Residential Sale
Guide
CHECK YOUR ENERGY PERFORMANCE CERTIFICATE (EPC)
Arrange for an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) if you don’t already have a valid one for your property. You can either organise it yourself or through your estate agent if you have appointed one
2
COMPLETE THE FORMS
Fill out the necessary forms and questionnaires to provide the buyer with comprehensive information about the property.
4
NEGOTIATE A COMPLETION DATE
Through your Property Solicitor, negotiate the time between the exchange and completion of contracts. Consider the length of the property chain and any survey-related issues. Finalise agreements on fixtures and fittings to remain in the property.
6
EXCHANGE CONTRACTS
Once contracts are exchanged, both you and the buyer are legally committed to the transaction. Failure to complete the sale without valid reasons may result in the return of the buyer’s deposit to them and potential legal consequences. Coordinate the exchange of contracts if you are also buying another property simultaneously.
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1
GATHER YOUR DOCUMENTS
Collect all relevant documentation for the property, including planning consents, building regulation certificates, guarantees, and service information for heating systems. For leasehold properties, ensure the ground rent and service charges are up to date, and gather relevant lease and management company documents.
3
ANSWER PROPERTY QUERIES
Your Property Solicitor may receive enquiries from the buyer’s conveyancer. Address any queries promptly and accurately, especially
those specific to the property. Consult with your Property Solicitor if uncertain about the appropriate response.
5
REVIEW THE CONTRACT WITH YOUR PROPERTY SOLICITOR
Before signing the contract, carefully review it with your lawyer to ensure all details are correct. Verify that the property’s extent and land are accurately represented in the contract. Remember that signing the contract does not commit you to the sale until the formal exchange of contracts takes place.
7
COMPLETION AND FINAL STEPS
The funds are transferred, and you receive payment. The property ownership is transferred, and the conveyancers exchange the title deeds. The keys are usually handed over, often through the estate agent. Ensure that the property is emptied of your belongings, leaving only the agreed fixtures and fittings. Your Property Solicitor will handle mortgage repayment, estate agent fees (if applicable), and distribute the net proceeds to you or allocate them to your related purchase if you’re buying another property.
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