Property FAQs Hub
Helping homeowners, landlords, and tenants understand the world of property, this comprehensive FAQ hub answers the most common questions around selling, legal processes, finances, and regulations. Whether you’re facing an urgent sale, navigating conveyancing, or exploring cash buyer options, you’ll find clear, practical guidance here.
Select your category and browse the FAQs or use the search function if you’re seeking a specific answer. You can also click on each question for further information.
Are companies that buy houses for cash legit?
Yes, many cash house buying companies are legitimate, but they vary in how they operate.
Are house buying companies legit?
Yes, many house buying companies are legitimate and operate as genuine property purchasers.
Are property buying companies regulated?
Property buying companies are not fully regulated, but many follow industry standards and best practice guidelines.
Are there hidden fees with house buying companies?
Most reputable house buying companies don’t have hidden fees, but the details can vary between providers.
Can a company buy my house directly from me?
Yes. A company can buy your house directly, often allowing for a faster sale without agents or chains.
Can I sell a house in poor condition to a cash buyer?
Yes, you can sell a house in poor condition to a cash buyer -most house buying companies purchase properties just as they are.
Does a cash buyer need a mortgage valuation?
No. Cash buyers do not need a mortgage valuation, but they may still carry out their own valuation or survey.
How do house buying companies value a property?
House buying companies value a property by assessing both current market data and the condition of the home, looking at recent local sales, current market demand, the property’s location, size, and layout, and any work needed.
How much below market value do house buying companies offer?
House buying companies typically offer around 15% to 30% below market value, to reflect the speed, certainty, and convenience of a guaranteed sale.
How quickly can a house buying company complete a sale?
A house buying company can often complete a sale in as little as 7–28 days, depending on the circumstances.
Can I sell a flat without an EWS1 form?
Yes, you can sell a flat without an EWS1 form, but it could be difficult if lenders require it for mortgage approval.
Can I sell my house without building regulations approval?
Yes, you can still sell a house without building regulations approval, but it can cause delays.
Do cladding certificates delay flat sales?
Yes. Missing cladding certificates can delay or prevent a flat sale, especially if a mortgage is involved.
Do I need a gas safety certificate to sell my house?
No, a gas safety certificate is not legally required to sell a house, but it might be requested during conveyancing.
Do I need an EPC before marketing my property?
Yes. You must have an EPC commissioned before marketing your property in the UK.
How do indemnity policies work in property sales?
Indemnity policies protect buyers against specific legal risks, such as missing permissions or title issues.
How long is an EPC valid for?
An EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) is valid for 10 years from the date it is issued.
Is a FENSA certificate required when selling a house?
A FENSA certificate isn’t legally required to sell a house, but it can be requested as proof that replacement windows or doors comply with building regulations.
What certificates are required to sell a house in the UK?
The main legal requirement is an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), which must be in place before the property is marketed.
What happens if I don’t have building regulations certificates?
If you don’t have building regulations certificates, the property sale can still go ahead, but it might cause delays.
What is an E1 form and do I need one?
An E1 form is a fire safety assessment for low-rise buildings and may be required by lenders in some cases.
Can I pull out after accepting a cash offer?
Yes. You can pull out at any time before contracts are exchanged.
How quickly can completion happen after searches?
Completion can happen within a few days after searches if everything is ready.
Is a 7-day house sale legally binding?
No. A 7-day house sale is only legally binding once contracts are exchanged.
Is there a cooling-off period in a quick house sale?
No. There is no formal cooling-off period in UK property sales.
What is the difference between exchange and completion?
Exchange makes the sale legally binding. Completion is when ownership transfers and you get paid.
When do I exchange contracts in a cash sale?
You exchange contracts once all legal checks are complete and both parties are ready, often within days in a cash sale.
Who chooses the solicitor in a fast property sale?
You usually choose your own solicitor, but you can use a recommended one to speed things up.
Are stamp duty thresholds changing in 2026?
Stamp duty thresholds changed significantly in April 2025, with the tax-free threshold dropping from £250,000 to £125,000 and first-time buyer relief reducing to £300,000. There are no confirmed stamp duty changes set for 2026.
Can I sell my house during a fixed rate mortgage?
Yes, you can sell your house during a fixed-rate mortgage. However, you may need to pay an early repayment charge or product fee depending on your lender’s terms.
Can I sell with a Help to Buy equity loan?
Yes. You can sell, but you must repay the equity loan based on your property’s current value.
Does selling clear mortgage arrears?
Yes. Mortgage arrears are usually cleared from the sale proceeds when you sell your property.
How do redemption statements work?
A redemption statement shows how much you need to pay to clear your mortgage at the point of sale.
How much money will I get after selling my house?
The amount you receive after selling your house will depend on your sale price minus any costs such as your remaining mortgage, estate agent fees, and solicitor fees.
What capital gains tax rate applies when selling a second home?
Capital gains tax is usually 18% for basic rate taxpayers and 28% for higher rate taxpayers.
What costs do I need to pay when selling a house in the UK?
When selling a house in the UK, you’ll usually need to cover costs such as estate agent fees, solicitor fees, and any mortgage-related charges.
What happens if the buyer reduces the offer before exchange?
The buyer can reduce their offer before exchange, and you can accept, reject, or negotiate.
What happens to equity in a distress sale?
Any remaining equity after debts are cleared is paid to you.
What happens to my mortgage when I sell my house?
When you sell your house, your mortgage is typically paid off in full from the sale proceeds.
What proof of funds should a cash buyer provide?
A cash buyer should provide bank statements or official confirmation showing they have the funds available.
Will I have to pay early repayment charges when I sell my house?
Yes, you might have to pay early repayment charges when you sell your house if you are still within a fixed or discounted mortgage deal, depending on your lender.
Can a joint owner refuse to sign sale documents?
Yes. A joint owner can refuse to sign, which can prevent the sale unless legal action is taken.
Can I sell a property with a restriction on the title?
Yes. You can sell a property with a restriction, but the condition must be satisfied before completion.
Can I sell with an unregistered title?
Yes. You can sell with an unregistered title, but extra checks and documents will be required.
What happens if there is a charge on my property?
A charge must be repaid from the sale proceeds before ownership can transfer.
What is an occupier consent form?
An occupier consent form confirms that anyone living in the property agrees to give up rights if the property is sold or repossessed.
Are EPC minimum energy standards changing?
Yes. EPC standards are expected to tighten, particularly for rental properties.
Are property taxes expected to increase in the UK?
Yes, property taxes in the UK are generally expected to rise gradually over time, as councils increase rates to cover rising costs, although increases are usually limited each year.
Are there any new property laws coming into effect in 2026?
Yes, major property law changes are expected in 2026, including reforms to rental rules such as the end of Section 21 evictions, which mainly affecting landlords and the rental market.
Do changes in interest rates affect house sale times?
Yes, changes in interest rates can affect how quickly homes sell, as higher rates can reduce buyer affordability and demand, while lower rates often increase activity and speed up sales.
Do new building regulations affect selling older properties?
No, older properties don’t usually need to be upgraded to meet new building regulations in order to be sold.
How do leasehold reform changes affect selling?
Leasehold reforms can make properties more attractive to buyers, but changes may also create short-term uncertainty.
How will leasehold reform affect house prices?
Leasehold reform could influence house prices by making leasehold properties more attractive to buyers, although the overall impact will vary depending on the changes made.
How will Section 21 abolition impact landlords selling?
Abolishing Section 21 may make it harder to regain possession, which can affect selling timelines.
What is the Building Safety Act and does it delay sales?
The Building Safety Act introduces stricter safety rules, which can delay sales, especially for flats.
What is the Property Ombudsman Code of Practice?
It is a set of rules that estate agents must follow to ensure fair and transparent service.
What is the Renters’ Reform Bill and how does it affect selling?
The Renters’ Reform Bill is a new UK law to change the private rental sector, including ending Section 21 evictions, which could affect how easily landlords can regain possession before selling.
Will new rental laws affect selling a tenanted property?
Yes, new rental laws can affect selling a tenanted property, as increased tenant protections can make it slower to regain possession before a sale.
Can a lender refuse consent to sell?
Yes. A lender can refuse consent, especially if the sale does not cover the mortgage balance.
Can I sell after a possession order is granted?
Yes. You can still sell your property after a possession order, but you must act quickly.
Can I sell before bankruptcy is finalised?
Yes, but you may need approval depending on your situation and stage of bankruptcy.
Can I sell in negative equity with lender consent?
Yes. You can sell in negative equity if your lender agrees, but you must cover any shortfall.
Can I stop bailiffs by selling my house?
Selling your house may stop bailiff action, but you must act before enforcement is completed.
Does an IVA affect selling my house?
Yes. An IVA can affect your ability to sell, and you may need permission from your insolvency practitioner.
How long after missed payments does repossession start?
Repossession can begin after a few missed payments, but lenders usually follow a staged process.
What is a consent to sell letter?
A consent to sell letter is written permission from your lender allowing you to sell your property.