Residential Property News & Updates

Switch, Let or Sell a Second Home

For some, owning a second home is a dream, evoking thoughts of seaside cottages and impromptu getaways. The reality though can be rather different. Not only is there the issue of ongoing maintenance, but recent changes have made ownership more expensive, something which could account for the recent surge in sales of second homes.

Seven property scams, and how to avoid them

Fraud is on the rise in all areas of our lives, and unfortunately property is no exception. Last year saw a 29 per cent increase in conveyancing scams, with homebuyers particularly vulnerable.

The Role of Guarantees and Warranties in a House Purchase

One of the advantages of buying a new home is that it should come with a guarantee from the builder. Likewise, if you are buying a property which the seller has recently improved, it may benefit from a guarantee or warranty covering that work. These can provide peace of mind, but how valuable are they in practice and can you rely on them?

What happens after Completion of your property purchase?

If you are buying a home, you will probably breathe a sigh of relief on completion as you pick up the keys to your new home and can finally move in. However, this is not the end of the conveyancing process, and there are several things your solicitor must still do to protect your interests.

Selling a Property With a Short Lease

If you own a leasehold property, on a day-to-day basis you may not notice any differences from owning a freehold. However, leasehold means you do not own your property outright, only the right to occupy it for a set number of years. Your property is therefore a depreciating asset.

Selling A Shared Ownership Property

The popularity of shared ownership continues to grow; there are now over quarter of a million shared ownership homes in the country. The appeal is understandable; it bridges the gap between renting and outright ownership and has helped many take a first step onto the property ladder. However, it differs significantly from more conventional forms of ownership.