How to Prepare for the Conveyancing process of a Sale

Following our last blog that was full of practical tips on preparing your property for sale this Spring, we also wanted to highlight how you can get a headstart in the conveyancing process. In our experience if you do your homework now, it can buy you valuable time later on. So we suggest you do the following:

• You will need an EPC (energy performance certificate) less than 10 years old for sales purposes, if you don’t have this we recommend you go ahead and get this now.
• If you are selling a leasehold property you will need to check with the management company that they have up to date and compliant fire risk assessments and asbestos checks.
• Be aware that a management company may levy a fee for information requested in the form of enquiries from solicitors.
• Find a solicitor that you would like to instruct later on. To do this we recommend that you start by investigating fee structures and enquire about their areas of expertise. A local solicitor will understand the local housing stock. Do not use a solicitor whose main body of work is conveyancing freehold properties if you are selling a Grade II listed leasehold flat.
• The old adage of “you get what you pay for” can apply to solicitors too. Beware of cut rate conveyancing. You are selling your biggest asset so it’s worth investing in a conveyancer who can offer you the best service.

If you have any questions or would like more help on being prepared for conveyancing, please give us a call in the office for a chat.