Property

Buying a House

1. How to Buy a House
   Whether you're a first-time buyer or moving up the ladder, the process can feel overwhelming. Learn how to buy a house in the UK, from saving your deposit to exchanging contracts.

2. Can a British Person Buy a House in America?
   If you're considering a move or investment abroad, you might wonder about the legalities. We explain whether a British person can buy a house in America and what rules apply.

3. Can I Buy a House with a Lifetime Mortgage?
   Lifetime mortgages are typically for releasing equity, but can they be used to purchase property? Find out if you can buy a house with a lifetime mortgage and how it works in practice.

4. How to Get on Housing Ladder
   Getting your first foot on the property ladder can be tough, but not impossible. Here's how to get on the housing ladder with tips on saving, schemes and affordability.

5. How to Make an Offer on a House
   Making an offer is more strategic than you might think. Learn how to make an offer on a house the right way and improve your chances of acceptance.

6. How Do You Negotiate House Price?
   Negotiation starts before you even view the property. We explain how to negotiate house price confidently, whether you're buying in a hot or cold market.

7. How Much Deposit Do You Need for a House?
   Deposits can vary depending on the lender and type of mortgage. Find out how much deposit you need for a house and what first-time buyers typically pay.

8. Can I Buy House from My Parents?
   Buying a property from family can make sense but it’s not always simple. Discover if you can buy a house from your parents and the legal/financial considerations involved.

9. Can I Buy a House for My Child?
   If you're in a position to help, you might wonder about ownership and tax. Learn whether you can buy a house for your child and what structure to use.

10. How Can I Buy a House Without a Mortgage?
    Buying with cash skips the lender, but the process is still formal. We cover how to buy a house without a mortgage and what checks you’ll still need.

11. How to Apply for Council House
    Getting a council house depends on need and local rules. Here’s how to apply for a council house, what documents you'll need and how long it can take.

12. Can I Use My Pension to Buy a House?
    Some pension types allow for property investment, others don’t. We explain whether you can use your pension to buy a house and what to avoid.

13. Can My Son Buy My Council House for Me?
    Right to Buy rules are strict even for family. Learn if your son can buy your council house for you and what paperwork is required.

14. Can a Limited Company Buy a House?
    Buying through a company has tax pros and cons. Find out how a limited company can buy a house and when it’s the right strategy.

15. How to Buy Your Council House
    Council tenants may be eligible for big discounts. Discover how to buy your council house under the Right to Buy scheme and how to apply.

16. Can You Buy a House at Auction with a Mortgage?
    It’s possible, but you'll need to move fast. We explain how to buy a house at auction with a mortgage and what lenders expect.

17. Can You Buy a Council House?
    Not everyone can — and not every home is eligible. Find out who can buy a council house and how the discount system works.

18. Can You Buy a House with Cash?
    Cash buyers often move quicker and attract better deals. Here's how to buy a house with cash and what checks still apply even without a mortgage.

19. When to Instruct a Solicitor When Buying a House
    Timing matters more than you think. Learn when to instruct a solicitor when buying a house and how they’ll guide you through the legal steps.

20. Can I Get a Loan for a House Deposit?
    It might seem like a shortcut — but most lenders don’t allow it. We explain if you can get a loan for a house deposit and safer alternatives.

21. Who Organises a Survey When Buying a House?
    A house survey protects you from hidden issues. Find out who organises the survey when buying a house and what types are available.

22. When Do You Pay the Deposit for a House?
    You’ll typically pay your deposit just before exchange. We explain when the deposit for a house is paid and how it’s held until completion.

23. What Credit Score Is Needed to Buy a House?
    Your credit score can shape your mortgage deal. Find out what credit score you need to buy a house and how to improve yours.

24. Should I Buy a House with Possessory Title?
    This type of title isn’t as secure as full ownership. Learn whether you should buy a house with possessory title and how to reduce the risks.

25. Should I Buy a House with Structural Movement?
    Subsidence can be a red flag or a bargain. Discover if you should buy a house with structural movement and when to walk away.

26. Should I Buy a House with Flying Freehold?
    This uncommon setup can complicate mortgages. We explain if you should buy a house with a flying freehold and what to ask before offering.

27. Should I Buy a House with a Restrictive Covenant?
    Covenants can limit renovations or business use. Find out whether you should buy a house with a restrictive covenant and how to check the details.

28. Can I Build House in My Garden?
    It’s not as simple as putting up a wall planning rules apply. Learn if you can build a house in your garden and what permissions are needed.

Selling a House

1. How to Sell My House Fast
   Need a quicker sale? Discover how to sell your house fast, from setting the right price to attracting serious buyers early on.

2. How Much Does It Cost to Sell a House
   There are hidden costs beyond estate agent fees. Learn how much it costs to sell a house, including solicitors, EPCs, and more.

3. How Long Does a House Take to Sell
   From listing to completion, timelines vary. Find out how long it typically takes to sell a house and what factors slow things down.

4. What Not to Fix When Selling a House UK
   Not every job boosts value. Learn what not to fix when selling a house in the UK so you avoid wasting time or money before listing.

5. How Long for a House Sale to Go Through
   Once an offer is accepted, what’s next? We explain how long it takes for a house sale to go through, including legal and lender timelines.

6. What Documents Do I Need to Sell My House
   Before your sale can proceed, paperwork is key. We list what documents you need to sell your house, from ID to property title.

7. Do You Pay Tax When You Sell Your House UK
   You may not owe anything or you might face capital gains. Discover if you have to pay tax when selling your house in the UK and how it’s calculated.

8. Why Isn’t My House Selling
   A slow sale could signal pricing, presentation, or market issues. We explore why your house might not be selling and what to do about it.

9. How Long to Sell House with No Chain
   Without a chain, things move faster. Learn how long it usually takes to sell a house with no chain, and how to keep it on track.

10. Can I Sell My House for Less than Market Value
    Yes but there are risks. Find out whether you can sell your house for less than market value and how it affects tax and mortgage lenders.

11. Can I Sell My House to My Limited Company
    Selling to your company is legal, but it must be at arm’s length. We explain how to sell your house to your limited company and what tax to watch for.

12. Can I Sell Half My House to the Bank
    Shared ownership or equity release might apply. Learn if you can sell half your house to the bank and what that actually means.

13. Can I Sell Part of My House
    Dividing a property can unlock value or cause legal headaches. Discover how to sell part of your house and what planning issues may arise.

14. Can I Sell a House with a Mortgage
    Yes — most people do. We explain how to sell a house with a mortgage, including what happens to your loan and title on completion.

15. How Long to Sell a House After Offer Is Accepted
    Even after a yes, the process continues. Learn how long it takes to sell a house after the offer is accepted, from surveys to contracts.

Solicitors & Legal

1. What Documents Do Solicitors Need When Buying a House
   Your solicitor will need key documents to verify identity, finances, and property details. Learn what documents solicitors need when buying a house and how to avoid delays.

2. What Is a Contract Pack When Buying a House
   This bundle contains everything the buyer’s solicitor needs to start searches. Find out what a contract pack is when buying a house and what it typically includes.

3. Do You Need Deeds to Sell a House
   Your title is now digital but deeds may still help. We explain whether you need deeds to sell a house and how to recover them if lost.

4. Do I Need a Solicitor to Buy a House
   Legally, no but practically, yes. Discover whether you need a solicitor to buy a house and what they actually do during the process.

5. Do I Need a Solicitor to Buy a House Cash
   Even if no mortgage is involved, legal checks still matter. Find out if you need a solicitor to buy a house with cash and what they’ll help with.

6. Who Can Witness a Signature on a House Sale Contract
   Not just anyone qualifies. Learn who can witness a signature on a house sale contract and what makes it legally valid.

7. Can You Change Solicitors Halfway Through Buying a House
   It’s possible but can cause disruption. We explain whether you can change solicitors halfway through buying a house and how to manage the switch.

8. Can You Empty a House Before Probate
   This depends on your legal role and the contents. Discover if you can empty a house before probate is granted and the risks involved.

9. Do I Need an Official House Valuation for Probate
   Not always but it can make things smoother. Learn whether you need an official house valuation for probate and what HMRC expects.

10. Can You Sell a House Before Probate
    You can market it but you can’t complete the sale. We explain whether you can sell a house before probate is granted and what timelines to expect.

11. Who Has the Deeds to My House
    They could be with your lender, solicitor, or Land Registry. Find out who holds the deeds to your house and how to request a copy.

12. How Can I Find the Deeds to My House
    Deeds can be crucial for boundary or ownership issues. Here’s how to find the deeds to your house, whether digital or paper-based.

13. What to Do with House Deeds When Mortgage Paid Off
    Once your loan is cleared, you may receive your deeds or not. Learn what to do with your house deeds when the mortgage is paid off and how to store them safely.

14. What Is a Covenant on a Property?
    Covenants can limit how you use or change your home. We explain what a covenant on a property is and how it could affect your plans.

Mortgages & Finance

1. How to Buy a House with No Money
   It might sound impossible, but there are schemes and options for low-deposit buyers. Discover how to buy a house with no money, including shared ownership and guarantor mortgages.

2. Can I Remortgage My House?
   Whether you want a better rate or to release equity, many homeowners explore this route. Learn if you can remortgage your house and what lenders require.

3. Can I Claim Benefits If I Own a House Outright?
   Yes, in some cases. Find out if you can claim benefits while owning a house outright, including how savings and income affect eligibility.

4. How to Avoid Selling Your House to Pay for Care
   No one wants to lose their home over care costs. We outline how to avoid selling your house to pay for care, including asset protection strategies.

5. How Do You Release Equity from Your House?
   Equity release can free up cash but it comes with risks. Learn how to release equity from your house and the pros and cons of each method.

6. What Happens After an Offer Is Accepted on a House?
   Your offer being accepted is just the start. We explain what happens after an offer is accepted on a house, from surveys to contract exchange.

7. Can You Withdraw an Offer on a House?
   Until contracts are exchanged, you’re not legally bound. Find out if you can withdraw an offer on a house and what the consequences might be.

8. What Is a Cheeky Offer on a House?
   It’s lower than asking but how low is too low? Discover what a cheeky offer on a house is, when to try one, and how sellers usually react.

9. How Much to Offer on a House
   There’s no fixed formula but there are smart strategies. Learn how much to offer on a house, depending on the market, condition, and demand.

10. How Much to Offer on a House with Offers Over
    That phrase means more than it suggests. We explain how much to offer on a house with ‘offers over’ and how to play the negotiation game.

11. What Happens After Searches Are Complete When Buying a House?
    Searches done? You’re nearly there but not quite. Find out what happens after searches are complete when buying a house and what to expect next.

Property Types & Features

1. What Is a Semi Detached House?
   A semi-detached home shares one wall with a neighbour but offers more privacy than a terrace. Learn what a semi-detached house is and why it’s a popular choice in the UK.

2. What Is a Linked Detached House?
   Linked by a garage or outbuilding, this hybrid home can offer the best of both worlds. Discover what a linked detached house is and how it differs from other property types.

3. What Is a Maisonette House?
   A maisonette looks like a flat, but feels like a house. We explain what a maisonette house is, how it’s accessed, and what to expect in terms of ownership.

4. What Is a Coach House UK?
   Often built over garages, coach houses offer compact living with unique layouts. Find out what a coach house is in the UK and why they can be appealing to first-time buyers.

5. What Is a Cluster House?
   Cluster housing is designed around shared spaces and minimal frontage. Learn what a cluster house is, how it’s laid out, and the pros and cons of this modern development style.

6. What Is Terraced House?
   A classic UK property type, terraces are cost-effective and full of character. Discover what a terraced house is, including differences between mid-terrace and end-terrace homes.

7. What Is Sheltered Housing?
   Designed for older adults, sheltered housing provides independence with support. We explain what sheltered housing is, who it’s for, and how it differs from care homes.

8. What Is a House in Multiple Occupation?
   If you’re renting to several tenants, you might need a licence. Learn what a house in multiple occupation (HMO) is, the legal definition, and landlord responsibilities.

9. What Are Mews Houses?
   Once stables, now stylish homes — mews houses are full of charm. Discover what mews houses are, their history, and why they’re sought after in urban areas.

10. What Is a Passive House?
    Ultra-energy-efficient, these homes are built to strict environmental standards. Find out what a passive house is, how it works, and what it costs to build or buy.

11. What Is the Town House?
    Usually three-storey and compact, town houses are designed for urban living. We explain what a town house is, including layout, parking, and pros and cons.

12. What Is Classed as Overcrowding in a 3 Bed House?
    Rules around space and who can share a room are strict. Learn what’s classed as overcrowding in a 3 bed house and how it affects housing applications.

13. Should I Buy a Timber Framed House UK?
    Modern timber builds are fast and eco-friendly, but concerns remain. We explore whether you should buy a timber framed house in the UK and what surveyors look for.

14. What Does Share of Freehold Mean?
    Owning part of the freehold gives you more control but what does it actually involve? Find out what share of freehold means and how it differs from leasehold.

Household Issues & Insurance

1. Does House Insurance Cover Boilers?
   Boilers can be costly to repair but are they covered? Find out whether house insurance covers boilers, and when you might need a separate policy.

2. Does House Insurance Cover Fallen Trees UK?
   Storm damage can be unpredictable. Learn if house insurance covers fallen trees in the UK, and what’s excluded from standard policies.

3. Is House Insurance Mandatory?
   It’s not a legal requirement but sometimes it’s essential. Discover whether house insurance is mandatory, and when lenders or landlords require it.

4. What Is Indemnity Insurance When Buying a House?
   This insurance covers legal risks like missing documents or planning issues. Learn what indemnity insurance is when buying a house, and why your solicitor might recommend it.

5. Do I Need Indemnity Insurance When Selling a House?
   Buyers may insist on cover if certain paperwork is missing. Find out if you need indemnity insurance when selling a house, and how much it typically costs.

6. Do You Need Gas Safety Certificate to Sell House?
   Unlike rentals, there’s no legal requirement but it helps. Learn whether you need a gas safety certificate to sell your house, and why it could speed up your sale.

7. Does Rendering a House Add Value UK?
   A fresh render can transform a home’s kerb appeal. Learn whether rendering a house adds value in the UK, and what buyers think of it.

8. Is It Worth Buying the Freehold of My House?
   Buying the freehold gives you more control and security but is it worth it? We explore if buying the freehold of your house is worth it, especially for leaseholders.

Council & Social Housing

1. What Is a Housing Association?
   These are non-profit organisations offering affordable homes. Learn what a housing association is, how they operate, and how to apply for one of their properties.

2. What Is Social Housing?
   Social housing is designed for those who need support with housing costs. We explain what social housing is, who qualifies, and how it’s different from private renting.

3. What Is DSS Housing?
   DSS refers to tenants receiving housing benefits. Discover what DSS housing is, why the term exists, and how it affects rental applications.

4. What Is Shared Ownership Houses?
   This scheme helps buyers part-own, part-rent their home. Find out what shared ownership houses are, how they work, and if they’re right for you.

5. Do Housing Associations Buy Private Houses?
   Sometimes they do for regeneration or expanding their stock. Learn whether housing associations buy private houses, and what it means for sellers.

6. Can My Son Buy My Council House for Me?
   Right to Buy rules are strict, especially around family. Find out if your son can buy your council house for you, and what conditions apply.

7. How Much Is Council House Rent?
   It varies by region and property type. Discover how much council house rent is, how it’s calculated, and whether you qualify for housing support.

8. Do I Need a Deposit to Buy My Council House?
   Discounts are available, but most buyers still need a deposit. Learn whether you need a deposit to buy your council house, and how mortgage lenders view Right to Buy.

9. How to Buy Your Council House
   The Right to Buy scheme offers big discounts for eligible tenants. We explain how to buy your council house, including the application process and legal steps.

10. Can You Get Universal Credit If You Own a House?
    Owning property doesn’t rule you out but other factors apply. Discover whether you can get Universal Credit if you own a house, and what the DWP considers.

11. Shared Ownership Pros and Cons
    It’s an affordable route onto the property ladder, but it’s not for everyone. Explore the pros and cons of shared ownership before you commit

Surveys & Valuations

1. How Long Do Property Searches Take?
   They’re essential for any purchase but how long do they actually take? Learn how long property searches take and what delays to watch for.

2. What Are the Red Flags on a House Survey?
   Surveys often highlight issues but some are deal-breakers. Learn what red flags to watch for on a house survey, from structural damage to hidden damp.

3. How Long Does It Take to Survey a House?
   Survey types vary and so does the time involved. Find out how long it takes to survey a house, whether it's a basic valuation or full structural report.

4. How Much Is a House Survey?
   Costs depend on the level of detail. We explain how much a house survey typically costs, and what’s included at each price point.

5. How Much Are House Valuations?
   Free or paid, valuations vary depending on purpose. Learn how much house valuations cost, and when you might need an official one.

6. How Do Estate Agents Value Houses?
   It’s not just guesswork, agents use local data, condition, and demand. Discover how estate agents value houses, and how to get the best valuation.

7. How Much Do Estate Agents Charge to Sell a House?
   Fees vary by location and agent type. Find out how much estate agents charge to sell a house, and whether fixed-fee or percentage-based is better value.

8. What Is a Local Authority Search When Buying a House?
   This reveals planning permissions, road schemes, and more. Learn what a local authority search is when buying a house, and why solicitors always recommend it.

9. What Are Searches When Buying a House?
   Searches highlight legal and environmental risks before you buy. We explain what searches are when buying a house, including the three core types.

10. How Long Do the Searches Take When Buying a House?
    It depends on your local council and the time of year. Find out how long searches take when buying a house, and what could delay results.

11. How Long Do House Searches Take?
    A common source of frustration in the buying process. Learn how long house searches usually take, and how your solicitor can speed them up.

12. How Long Do Enquiries Take When Buying a House?
    Once searches are done, the final questions begin. We explain how long enquiries take when buying a house, and what could hold up completion.

Tax, Probate & Equity

1. Do You Pay Tax When You Sell Your House UK?
   You might not owe anything if it’s your main residence — but second homes are different. Learn whether you pay tax when you sell your house in the UK, and how capital gains tax applies.

2. Can My Ex-Wife Claim Half My New House?
   Property division can get complicated after divorce. Find out if your ex-wife can claim half your new house, and how timing, ownership, and court orders come into play.

3. Can You Get Legal Aid If You Own a House?
   Owning a home doesn’t automatically exclude you but it does affect means testing. Discover whether you can get legal aid if you own a house, and how equity is assessed.

4. How to Put My House in a Trust
   Placing your home in a trust can help with inheritance planning or protection. Learn how to put your house in a trust, the different types available, and legal considerations.

5. Can I Gift My House to My Children?
   Yes, but gifting property can trigger tax and care implications. Find out how to gift your house to your children, and when it’s a smart or risky move.

6. How to Cancel Council Tax When Moving House
   It’s your responsibility to notify the council when moving. Learn how to cancel council tax when moving house, and avoid overpaying.

7. What Council Tax Band Is My House?
   Your band affects how much you pay each year. Discover how to check what council tax band your house is in, and what to do if it seems too high.

8. Transfer Property to Limited Company
   Moving property into a company can offer tax benefits but comes with legal steps. Learn how to transfer property to a limited company and what you need to consider.

9. Transfer Property to Limited Company Without Stamp Duty
   It’s not always possible, but some transfers may be exempt. We explain how to transfer property to a limited company without stamp duty and when reliefs may apply.

10. Ltd Company Stamp Duty
    When buying property through a company, rates are higher. Find out how stamp duty works for a limited company and how much you’ll pay.

11. Do You Pay Tax When You Sell Your House UK?
    Selling your main home is often tax-free, but not always. Discover if you have to pay tax when you sell your house in the UK and when capital gains apply.

Renovation & Ownership Transfers

1. How Much Does It Cost to Build a House?
   From land to labour, costs can vary dramatically. Find out how much it costs to build a house in the UK, and what factors influence your final total.

2. How Long Does It Take to Build a House?
   Timelines depend on the build type and planning process. Learn how long it takes to build a house, from breaking ground to moving in.

3. How Much to Repoint a House?
   Cracked or crumbling mortar isn’t just cosmetic. Discover how much it costs to repoint a house, and when it’s worth doing.

4. How Much Does It Cost to Demolish a House?
   Whether you’re clearing land or removing an unsafe building, we explain how much it costs to demolish a house and what permissions are needed.

5. How to Transfer Ownership of a House Without Selling
   Gifting or changing names on a title? Learn how to transfer ownership of a house without selling, including legal steps and stamp duty implications.

6. How to Save for a House
   From ISAs to budgeting strategies, we explore how to save for a house effectively, no matter your starting point.

7. When Was My House Built?
   Age can impact value, repairs, and insurance. Find out how to check when your house was built, even if records are unclear.

8. How Do I Rent Out My House?
   Letting your home requires legal and financial planning. Learn how to rent out your house, from getting mortgage consent to preparing for tenants.

9. How to Rent a House with Bad Credit
   Poor credit doesn’t mean you can’t rent but you may need extra steps. Discover how to rent a house with bad credit, including guarantor options.

10. How to Sell a House Privately to a Family Member
    It’s common but needs to be handled properly. We explain how to sell a house privately to a family member, and how to avoid tax or legal complications.

11. How to Calculate Buying Someone Out of a House UK
    There’s more to it than just splitting equity. Learn how to calculate buying someone out of a house in the UK, including mortgages and fees.

12. How Do You Buy Someone Out of a House?
    It’s a common question during divorce or inheritance. We break down how to buy someone out of a house, step by step.

13. How to Find Out Who Owns a House
    From title registers to council records, learn how to find out who owns a house, whether it’s next door or across the street.

14. Who to Notify When Moving House
    There’s more than just friends and family. Here’s who to notify when moving house, including government bodies, utilities, and services.

15. Can I Name My House?
    You don’t need to live in a mansion to name your home. Learn if you can name your house, how to register it, and when the council gets involved.