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.

Thinking Of Selling? Why Early Preparation Makes All The Difference

A practical guide for homeowners preparing to place a property on the market.

Quick summary
A smoother sale often starts before a buyer is found. Early preparation allows title issues, missing documents, planning paperwork, leasehold information and practical questions to be dealt with before they become urgent.

Why get ready early?

Once a buyer is found, momentum matters. Delays in issuing contract papers, answering enquiries or obtaining management information can cause frustration, renegotiation or even a lost buyer. Preparing early gives you more control.

Instructing a conveyancer before a buyer is found

You do not need to wait until an offer is accepted before choosing your conveyancer. Opening the file early means ID checks, property information forms, title review and initial document gathering can begin in advance.

Documents to gather

Planning permissions, building regulation certificates and completion certificates.
FENSA, CERTASS, Gas Safe, electrical or other installation certificates where relevant.
Guarantees, warranties and indemnity policies.
Lease, service charge accounts, ground rent details and management company information if leasehold.
Solar panel, battery storage, septic tank, private drainage, private road or shared access documents where relevant.
Evidence relating to boundaries, rights of way, alterations or disputes.

Resolve title issues before they delay the sale

If the property is unregistered, subject to a restriction, affected by a missing deed, held by personal representatives, owned under a power of attorney or subject to historic title issues, early advice can make a significant difference. Some matters can be resolved before marketing; others simply need to be explained properly in the contract pack.

Leasehold sellers should start even earlier

Leasehold sales often require a management pack from a landlord or managing agent. These can take time and frequently reveal issues such as arrears, anticipated major works, deed of covenant requirements, consent fees or missing certificates. Early request and review can reduce delay later.

Practical presentation still matters

Decluttering, repairs, paperwork and clear communication with agents all help. The aim is not just to attract a buyer, but to keep that buyer confident once the legal process starts.

Seller readiness checklist

Choose and instruct your conveyancer early.
Complete property information forms carefully and honestly.
Collect certificates and guarantees before the buyer asks for them.
Identify any alterations, disputes, notices or access arrangements.
If leasehold, order the management pack as soon as possible.
Avoid making statements to buyers or agents which you cannot evidence.

How Wollens can help
We can help you prepare the legal pack before a buyer is found, identify likely enquiry points and reduce the risk of avoidable delay once a sale is agreed.