Selling your property can be an exciting journey, but it’s also one that requires careful preparation—especially when it comes to your paperwork. Having the right documents in order before listing your home not only helps you avoid surprises during the sale but also ensures a smooth and stress-free process for both you and potential buyers. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you get started.
Buyers and agents expect transparency. By having your documentation ready upfront, you’ll be prepared to address any questions and demonstrate that your property is a solid investment. Additionally, legal and logistical issues discovered later could delay or derail the sale.
Below, we’ve outlined a checklist of essential documents and checks every homeowner should tackle before putting their property on the market.
A LIM report provides detailed information about your property, including zoning, building consents, drainage, and any risks such as flooding or erosion. It’s an invaluable resource for buyers and a key document in the selling process.
This document proves ownership of the property and outlines any easements, covenants, or restrictions that apply. Ensure it’s current and accurate before proceeding.
For cross-lease properties, it’s essential to check the flats plan. This is a diagram that details the layout of the property, including boundaries and structures. Confirm it’s correct and matches the current state of the property.
Ensure you have records for all building work that required consent, such as renovations or extensions. Missing consents can cause delays or lead to renegotiations with buyers.
Buyers will want confirmation that there are no outstanding rates or utility payments. Prepare recent statements or obtain a clearance certificate from your council or service providers.
If your home includes any recent work (such as roofing or electrical installations), gather warranties and guarantees. These add confidence for buyers and can be a selling point.
Review your property records to ensure there are no unresolved issues, such as:
Buyers often check flood risk areas, so it’s a good idea to look up your property’s flood zone status. This information is typically available through your local council or LIM report.
Verify that the physical boundaries of your property match the legal boundaries outlined in your title. If discrepancies exist, you may need to address them with a surveyor.
Prepare a list of chattels (items included in the sale, such as curtains or appliances). Clearly specify what stays and what goes to avoid confusion or disputes.
To summarise, here’s a helpful checklist to ensure you’re fully prepared:
Being organised with your paperwork and property checks before selling not only saves time but also boosts buyer confidence. By addressing potential issues early, you’ll minimise delays and be better positioned for a successful sale. Remember, your solicitor and real estate agent are there to guide you—don’t hesitate to seek their advice throughout the process.
With everything squared away, you’ll be ready to focus on the exciting next chapter ahead. Good luck!
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