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 To Remember When Selling Your House

Selling your home can be exciting, but it often involves far more preparation than many people expect. The more information you can gather before finding a buyer, the more likely your transaction is to proceed smoothly.

Here are ten important things every seller should remember.

1. Instruct Your Solicitor Early

You do not need to wait until an offer has been accepted to instruct a solicitor. Early instruction allows your solicitor to prepare contract papers and identify any issues which may delay the transaction later.

2. Gather Key Documents

One of the biggest causes of delay is sellers struggling to locate important paperwork.

Try to gather:

planning permissions;
building regulation approvals;
guarantees;
FENSA certificates;
electrical certificates;
leasehold documents;
management company information.

Having these documents ready can save weeks during the transaction.

3. Complete Property Forms Carefully

Property Information Forms and Fittings and Contents Forms are important legal documents.

Answers must be accurate and complete. If you are unsure about any question, take advice before responding.

4. Check Your Boundaries

Boundary disputes can cause significant difficulties during a sale.

Before marketing the property, consider whether:

fences align with legal boundaries;
neighbours have raised concerns;
there are any ongoing disputes which require disclosure.

5. Ensure Your EPC Is Available

Most residential properties require a valid Energy Performance Certificate before they are marketed for sale. If your EPC has expired, arrange a new assessment as early as possible.

6. Consider Potential Tax Implications

Whilst many homeowners benefit from Principal Private Residence Relief, tax issues can arise in some circumstances.

Particular care may be needed where:

the property is not your main residence;
you live abroad;
part of the property has been used for business purposes.

7. Be Ready to Answer Enquiries

Buyers and their solicitors often raise detailed enquiries. Responding promptly and providing supporting documentation can help maintain momentum and prevent frustration within the chain.

8. Deal with Repairs Sensibly

Not every issue needs to be fixed before sale.

However, unresolved defects can lead to:

price renegotiations;
survey concerns;
delays.

A pragmatic assessment of any significant issues before marketing can be worthwhile.

9. Understand the Costs of Selling

Remember to budget for:

estate agents’ fees;
legal fees;
mortgage redemption costs;
moving expenses;
management pack fees (for leasehold properties).

10. Preparation Beats Timing

Many sellers spend time worrying about market conditions when the single biggest factor within their control is preparation. Well-prepared transactions tend to progress more quickly, encounter fewer obstacles and create a better experience for all parties involved.

The key to a successful sale is preparation. By gathering documentation early, responding promptly to enquiries and taking advice at the outset, sellers can minimise delays and help keep their transaction on track from instruction through to completion.

Thinking about selling? Early legal advice can often identify potential issues before they become obstacles and help ensure your move progresses as smoothly as possible.