All too often Sellers put their houses up for sale, with their selling agent, and then think there isn’t anything else to prepare for when a buyer has been found.
Think again and you could save yourself time and perhaps money. Be organised and have the relevant documents available for your solicitor to produce when the sale has been agreed.
Fixtures Fittings and Contents Form – perhaps you would not wish to complete this until the sale has been agreed however, it is worth thinking about in advance. Prepare a list of what you will be, and will not be, taking so that you can agree with your selling agent any additional items you would like to sell separately, and offer to the buyer so that the details can be included in the Memorandum of Sale which will be produced by the agents
Property Information Form – your solicitor will ask you to complete this form which has standard questions and answers. It may be an idea to ask your solicitor for the form when you put the property on the market so that you can make sure you have all relevant information and documentation which will be generated from the questions raised. It is important to remember that if any answers change, after you have completed, you must make sure the up to date information is provided to your solicitor. Other documents to consider including:
- If the property has had any extensions or improvement works which required planning permission and building regulation approval you will need to make sure that you have a copy of the consents and the Completion Certificate for building regulations.
- Electrical and gas works will usually require you to present a Compliance Certificate for works carried out.
- If glazing has been installed then you will need to evidence that this has been completed by an approved contractor who will issue a FENSA certificate or that you obtained building regulation approval.
- You will need to produce original guarantees and certificates for any works which have the benefit of these such as Cavity Wall Insulation and Wall Ties.
Don’t worry if you do not have documentation as you can always obtain copies by using various information sources. Your solicitor will be able to guide you as to where to obtain the relevant documents, for example from Local Authority Planning Portal of FENSA website.
If you would need assistance when selling your property, please contact one of our residential conveyancing team in Teesside: 01642 356 500 or Newcastle: 0191 232 2574.
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