Why Preparation Matters Before You Go to Market

The period between accepting an offer and exchanging contracts is when most transactions run into difficulty. Solicitors raise enquiries, buyers get nervous, and timelines slip — often because the seller didn't have key documents or information ready. Working through this checklist before marketing begins puts you in a much stronger position.

Title and Ownership

Your solicitor will need to confirm that you have the legal right to sell the property. The following documents and information are typically required:

• Official copy of the title register (obtainable from HM Land Registry)
• Official copy of the title plan (obtainable from HM Land Registry)
• If the property is not registered, the original title deeds
• Details of any charges or mortgages secured against the property
• If you own the property jointly, confirmation of how it is held (joint tenants or tenants in common)

Property Information

Buyers and their solicitors will ask for detailed information about the property. Gathering this before marketing begins means you can respond quickly to enquiries:

• Details of any alterations, extensions, or building works carried out
• Planning permissions and building regulations certificates for any works
• FENSA or CERTASS certificates for replacement windows or doors
• Guarantees and warranties (damp-proofing, structural, roofing, etc.)
• Details of any disputes with neighbours, boundary issues, or rights of way
• Information about any planning applications affecting the property or nearby
• Details of any Japanese knotweed or other invasive species

Energy Performance Certificate

A valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is a legal requirement before a property can be marketed for sale. Check that yours is current — EPCs are valid for ten years.

• Check your EPC is valid (not expired) on the EPC Register at gov.uk
• If your EPC has expired or you don't have one, commission a new one from an accredited assessor
• Note the EPC rating — estate agents are required to include this in listings

Leasehold Properties

If your property is leasehold, there are additional items to prepare. Delays in obtaining the management pack are one of the most common causes of extended transaction timelines:

• A copy of your lease
• Details of your freeholder or managing agent
• Recent service charge accounts and budgets
• Ground rent details and any escalation clauses
• Details of any major works planned or recently completed
• Contact details for your managing agent to request the LPE1 form

What to Do Next

Work through each section of this checklist and note any gaps. For items you're unsure about, the Resource Library has detailed guides covering each area. If you're missing documents, many can be obtained in advance — and knowing what's missing before marketing begins gives you time to address it without delaying your sale.