What is a Section 278 Agreement?

A Section 278 Agreement is a legal agreement between a developer and a highway authority to carry out highway works.

10 Things Sellers Wish They Had Known Before Putting Their Property On The Market

Selling your home can be an exciting step, whether you are moving to a larger property, relocating, downsizing, or simply looking for a fresh start. Many sellers assume that once a buyer is found, the transaction will progress smoothly. Unfortunately, avoidable delays often arise because important documents, information or decisions have not been addressed at the outset.

The good news is that a little preparation can make a significant difference. Here are ten things sellers often wish they had known before putting their property on the market.

1. Instructing a Solicitor Early Can Save Weeks

Many sellers wait until they have accepted an offer before instructing a solicitor. However, much of the legal work can begin beforehand.

Your solicitor can:

obtain title documents;
prepare draft contract papers;
identify potential title issues;
review leasehold requirements; and
help gather important property information.

By starting early, you can often avoid delays later in the transaction.

2. Buyers Will Ask Detailed Questions About the Property

Once a buyer’s solicitor receives the contract papers, they will raise enquiries about the property.

These enquiries may cover:

boundaries;
rights of way;
disputes with neighbours;
planning permissions;
building regulations;
guarantees and warranties;
services and utilities.

The more information you can provide at the outset, the easier it is to answer these questions promptly. The seller’s Property Information Form remains a key document in the conveyancing process and should be completed carefully and accurately.

3. Missing Paperwork Is One of the Biggest Causes of Delay

Many homeowners have undertaken improvements without keeping all the relevant documentation.

Before marketing your property, try to locate:

planning permissions;
building regulation approvals;
completion certificates;
FENSA certificates;
electrical certificates;
boiler installation records;
guarantees for damp proofing, roofing or timber treatment.

Locating these documents early can prevent last-minute problems.

4. Be Careful When Completing Property Forms

Sellers are required to provide information about the property and their ownership.

While it may be tempting to answer quickly, inaccurate or incomplete responses can create difficulties later. If you are uncertain about an answer, speak to your solicitor before completing the forms. The forms are designed to provide buyers with important information about matters such as boundaries, disputes, complaints, alterations and building works.

5. Fixtures and Fittings Can Cause Unexpected Disputes

What may seem obvious to you may not be obvious to your buyer.

Questions frequently arise about:

curtains;
light fittings;
garden sheds;
mirrors;
appliances;
fitted furniture.

The Fixtures and Fittings Form allows sellers to confirm exactly what is included in the sale and what will be removed before completion. Taking time to complete this properly can avoid misunderstandings later.

6. Chains Affect Nearly Every Transaction

A property chain is a series of linked sales and purchases. Your buyer may need to sell their own property before proceeding, while you may be relying on the purchase of another property yourself. The longer the chain, the greater the risk of delays. Whilst chains cannot always be avoided, maintaining regular communication with your solicitor and estate agent can help identify issues before they become serious problems.

7. Your Mortgage Does Not Automatically Disappear

If your property is mortgaged, the outstanding loan will normally need to be repaid from the sale proceeds. Your solicitor will obtain a redemption statement showing the amount needed to repay your mortgage in full on completion. Sellers are sometimes surprised by early repayment charges, so it is worth checking with your lender at an early stage if you are unsure.

8. Exchange and Completion Are Different Stages

Many people assume that exchange and completion happen simultaneously. In reality, they are separate legal events.

Exchange of contracts is the point at which both parties become legally committed to the transaction.

Completion takes place on the agreed completion date when ownership transfers, funds are received and keys are released to the buyer.

Understanding this distinction helps sellers plan removals, utility transfers and moving arrangements more effectively.

9. Leasehold Properties Often Require More Preparation

If you are selling a leasehold property, additional information will be required from the landlord or managing agents.

This may include:

service charge accounts;
buildings insurance details;
management information packs;
ground rent information;
planned major works.

Obtaining this information can take several weeks, so it is usually sensible to begin the process as early as possible.

10. Preparation Usually Leads to Faster Completion

The most successful transactions are often those where the seller takes a proactive approach.

Before putting your property on the market, consider:

locating title documents and certificates;
gathering planning and building regulation paperwork;
checking mortgage information;
completing forms carefully;
speaking to a solicitor early.

A little preparation at the outset can significantly reduce stress and help keep the transaction moving.

How We Can Help

Our Residential Property team helps sellers across Devon and beyond navigate the legal process from instruction through to completion. Whether you are selling a freehold house, leasehold apartment, new build property or inherited home, we can help identify potential issues early, provide practical advice and work to keep your transaction on track.

If you are thinking about selling your property, contact our team for expert advice and support.