Selling your home can be an exciting milestone, but it’s no secret that the legal process can be slow, stressful, and full of paperwork. On average, it takes around 115 days from accepting an offer to completing the sale (source Moneyweek), and in that time, delays and dropped deals are all too common.
But here’s the good news: with the right preparation before you even go to market, you can save time, reduce stress, and keep your sale on track. Here's how to get ahead of the game and make sure you're “sale-ready” from day one.
- Get Your Solicitor Instructed Early
Most sellers wait until after they’ve found a buyer to appoint a solicitor—but that can cost you precious weeks. By instructing your conveyancer before marketing the property, you can:
- Complete ID checks early
- Begin preparing the draft contract
- Get legal forms ready in advance
It’s especially important if you’re selling a leasehold property, where delays from managing agents and freeholders are common.
- Prepare Your Documents in Advance
You can avoid common delays by getting key documents in order now. These include:
- Proof of ID and title deeds
- Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) – required for marketing
- Property Information Forms (TA6, TA10, and TA7 for leaseholds)
- Certificates for building work (planning, building regs, FENSA, Gas Safe, etc.)
- Warranties or guarantees for things like damp treatment or a new boiler
Not sure where to find these? Your solicitor can help you pull them together.
- Sort Out Any Legal Hiccups Upfront
Sometimes legal issues lurk in the background of a property. Catching and addressing these early can prevent headaches later:
- Missing planning permissions or consents
- Old mortgages or charges still listed on the title
- Boundary issues or past neighbour disputes
- Short leases (usually under 80 years) – discuss with your agent how to go about extending your lease asap.
Honesty and readiness are key—solving small problems before a buyer’s solicitor finds them can save a sale. Your agent should be able to guide you on what issues will likely create delays.
- Leasehold? Start Sooner
If you’re selling a flat or leasehold house, time is even more of the essence. Request your LPE1 leasehold information pack from the freeholder or managing agent as early as possible—it can take weeks to arrive and includes essential details on ground rent, service charges, insurance, and major works.
Buyers and mortgage lenders may also ask for fire safety documents or EWS1 forms, especially in buildings with cladding. Getting this paperwork together in advance avoids last-minute panic.
- Stay Engaged and Responsive
Finally, stay on top of things. Respond promptly to requests from your solicitor or estate agent, and don’t be afraid to chase updates. Speedy communication makes all the difference.
Final Thoughts?
A smoother, faster sale is possible - if you put in a little work early on. Taking these steps before your home hits the market helps ensure fewer delays, fewer surprises, and a better chance of a successful move.
Thinking of selling soon? Now’s the perfect time to get started. Contact the team at Collinson Hall who would be happy to help. Contact us.
