BUYCongratulations! You’ve found the house of your dreams, had your offer accepted and can’t wait to move. Now for that bit between the memorandum of sale and completion. There are a number of crucial documents that will need to be supplied in order for the transaction to proceed, and there are ways of ensuring minimal delays. Here is Aspire’s quick guide to the essential legal documents and associated paperwork:-
Title deeds: don’t worry about rummaging in your safe or filing cabinet looking for a sepia piece of paper. Title deeds are now stored digitally by the Land Registry and your solicitor can easily check ownership details online.
Indemnity policy: If you have taken out indemnity insurance, your buyer’s solicitor will request to see a copy of the certificate.
Copy of the lease & any extension: if you’re selling a leasehold property, you’ll need to provide a copy of the lease. If you have extended the lease while in occupancy – or it was extended before you moved in - both solicitors involved will need the paperwork to verify the extension.
Proof of a mortgage offer: ensure you have a written offer from your chosen lender.
Proof of funds: you will also be asked to prove you have the deposit necessary to proceed with the purchase, so prepare a bank statement reflecting your financial savings.
Proof of name and address: you’ll need to supply photo ID – either a passport or driving license – and a bank statement or utility bill to prove who you are and where you live.
Signed contracts: the exchange of contracts will not happen unless both contracts are signed, so put pen to paper as soon as you receive your contract and send it back to your solicitor promptly.
New build warranty – if you are selling a property that is relatively new and still under warranty, you’ll need to provide the warranty documents.
If you’re unsure of what to provide and where to find it, please call Aspire and we can help.
