Insights

Moving day is always busy, and updating your address can easily be overlooked. Having a clear checklist helps ensure nothing important is missed once you have settled into your new home.

Buying your first home has become increasingly challenging for many people. Rising living costs, reduced Stamp Duty reliefs, and high rent means family support is more common than ever. This is often referred to as the Bank of Mum and Dad.

When buying a property, your solicitor must verify where your money comes from and how your wealth was accumulated. This is a legal requirement under anti-money laundering rules. Getting the right documents together early helps keep your purchase moving.

When you buy a property, your solicitor will order searches as part of the legal process. The search providers do not inspect the building itself (that's a survey), but searches do provide vital information from official records so you can spot issues before you're legally committed.

When you sell a home, you'll be asked to complete selection of standard property forms. These form part of the legal contract, so it's important they're clear, accurate and complete. A little care at this stage helps keep your move on track.

Many people worry when they cannot find their property deeds, particularly when planning a sale or remortgage. In most cases, losing your deeds is not a significant issue, but there are situations where they still matter.