Selling your property is a major financial milestone.
But, without a clear understanding of the legal process, it can quickly become stressful and confusing. At Bromleys, we’re here to guide you through every stage, so you can sell with confidence and avoid unnecessary delays.
Beverley Pretl, Associate and Solicitor in Bromleys’ Residential Conveyancing Department, breaks down the five essential legal steps you’ll encounter when selling your home.
1. Instruct a Solicitor Early
Before you accept an offer, appoint a solicitor.
Getting the legal groundwork in place early means you’ll be ready to move quickly when a buyer comes along. Your solicitor will:
- Verify your identity and address
- Issue a letter of engagement
- Ask you to complete key forms like:
- TA6 – Property Information
- TA10 – Fixtures & Contents
Tip: The sooner you complete these steps, the smoother your sale will be.
2. Accepting an Offer
Once you’ve accepted an offer, your solicitor will:
- Draft the sale contract
- Review the title deeds
- Flag any legal issues to the buyer’s solicitor
If your property is leasehold, you’ll also need to complete a TA7 form and provide lease-related documents.
Meanwhile, the buyer’s solicitor begins their due diligence—carrying out searches with the local authority, water company, and environmental agencies.
3. Responding to Enquiries
The buyer’s solicitor will raise questions based on the contract and search results. These might relate to:
- Planning permissions
- Boundaries
- Fixtures and fittings
Your solicitor will help you respond accurately and promptly. Delays often happen at this stage, so it’s important to provide any missing documents quickly.
4. Exchange of Contracts
Once all enquiries are resolved and the buyer’s mortgage is confirmed:
- Both parties sign the contract
- The buyer pays a deposit (usually 10%)
- A completion date is agreed
From this point, the sale becomes legally binding. If either party pulls out, financial penalties may apply.
5. Completion & Final Steps
Completion Day is when the sale is finalised and the keys are handed over.
- The buyer’s solicitor transfers the remaining funds
- Your solicitor confirms receipt and you move out
- If you have a mortgage, it’s repaid directly from the sale proceeds
Your solicitor will have already requested a redemption statement from your lender showing the exact amount owed. Once the mortgage is cleared, legal fees are deducted and the remaining balance is transferred to you.
For the buyer, post-completion steps include:
- Paying Stamp Duty (if applicable)
- Registering the new ownership with HM Land Registry
- Receiving the updated title deeds
For sellers, once the funds are transferred and the mortgage is repaid, the legal process is complete.
Why Choose Bromleys Solicitors?
At Bromleys, we understand that selling your home isn’t just a transaction, it’s a life event. Our experienced property team will:
- Explain everything in plain English
- Keep you informed at every stage
- Handle the legal details with care and efficiency
We’ve supported thousands of homeowners across Greater Manchester and beyond. With our transparent pricing, award-winning service, and commitment to client care, you’re in safe hands. Call us today on 0161 884 0905 or email bromleys@bromleys.co.uk and see how we can help.