Selling your home is an exciting step, but it can also feel like a whirlwind of viewings, offers, and paperwork. While the expert panel conveyancer we assign to you will expertly handle the legal heavy lifting, there are crucial documents you, as the seller, need to prepare. Getting these ready early can significantly speed up your sale and prevent frustrating delays down the line.
Think of these documents as your home’s legal autobiography. They provide essential information to your buyer, their solicitor, and your own conveyancer, ensuring a smooth and transparent transaction.
Let’s dive into the key forms:
1. The Property Information Form (TA6)
This is arguably the most comprehensive document you’ll complete. The TA6 provides a detailed overview of your property, covering everything from boundaries and disputes to utilities and services.
What it includes:
- Boundaries: Information about who is responsible for fences, walls, and hedges.
- Disputes and Complaints: Details of any past or ongoing issues with neighbours.
- Notices: Any notices affecting the property (e.g., from the local authority).
- Guarantees and Warranties: For any work done on the property (e.g., damp proofing, new windows, boiler installations).
- Services: Where your gas, electricity, water, and drainage meters are located and who supplies them.
- Environmental Matters: Information on flood risk, asbestos, and energy performance certificates (EPCs).
Why it matters: Accuracy is paramount here. Buyers rely on this information, and any discrepancies discovered later could lead to delays or even legal claims. Be thorough and honest.
2. The Fixtures and Fittings Form (TA10)
Ever wondered what stays and what goes when you sell a house? This form clarifies it! The TA10 details exactly which items are included in the sale price (fixtures) and which you’ll be taking with you (fittings).
What it includes:
- Categorised lists: Rooms are broken down, and you specify if items like carpets, curtains, light fittings, kitchen appliances, and garden sheds are included or excluded.
- Negotiated items: Space to list items you’re willing to sell to the buyer by separate negotiation.
Why it matters: This form prevents misunderstandings and disputes. Imagine arriving at your new home only to find your dream kitchen appliances have vanished! Clear communication here ensures both parties are on the same page.
3. Leasehold Information Pack (TA7) – If Your Property is Leasehold
If you own a leasehold property (common with flats, but some houses can also be leasehold), this pack is crucial. It provides extensive details about the lease agreement and the management of the building.
What it includes:
- Lease details: Ground rent, service charges, and when these are due.
- Management company information: Who manages the building and their contact details.
- Building insurance: Details of the building’s insurance policy.
- Service charge accounts: Recent statements and budgets.
- Planned works: Information on any upcoming major works or assessments.
- Restrictions: Any covenants in the lease (e.g., no pets, no sub-letting).
Why it matters: This information helps the buyer understand their ongoing financial obligations and any restrictions tied to the property. Delays in obtaining this pack are a very common cause of hold-ups in leasehold sales, so preparing it early is a huge advantage. Your management company or landlord will usually charge a fee for this pack, so factor that into your planning.
Other Important Documents
While the TA6, TA10, and TA7 are the core forms, your solicitor may also ask for:
- EPC (Energy Performance Certificate): You legally need one to market your property.
- Gas Safety Certificates (if applicable): For rented properties or if you’ve recently installed a new boiler.
- Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICRs) (if applicable): Again, particularly for rented properties or recent electrical work.
- Planning Permissions and Building Regulations Approvals: For any alterations, extensions, or major works you’ve undertaken (e.g., loft conversions, conservatories).
- Deeds of Guarantee/Warranties: For things like new windows, damp proofing, or timber treatment.
The YouConvey Advantage: Preparedness is Key
Gathering these documents can seem daunting, but starting early gives you a significant advantage. It demonstrates to your buyer that you’re organised and serious about the sale, which can inspire confidence and smooth the process.
At YouConvey we provide 24/7 support to our customers from the moment you accept the quote, assigning you with a dedicated Home Move Advisor who will guide you through each form and answer any questions you may have.
Even better, you can complete all of the necessary paperwork in your own online portal, at a time and speed which suits you. Some of our customers complete the onboarding process in less than a day, whilst others want to take a slower pace. Either way, it’s completely up to you, with us by your side for support.
Our goal is to make your selling experience as straightforward and stress-free as possible. By having these legal documents prepared, you’re already one step closer to completion!
Ready to sell your home with confidence? Get in touch today for a free no obligation quote, and see how we can help you move without the stress.
