Avoid conveyancing pitfalls

It might appear trite, but a well constructed and informative Deed of Sale is vital for a smooth property transfer and it is worth emphasising a few practical steps, which although known to most estate agents are often forgotten. For instance:

• Get as much information about the particulars of both the buyer and seller and communicate this to the relevant attorneys.
• If conditions are to be incorporated into the agreement, ask an attorney to help with their drafting, thereby avoiding any confusion and misunderstanding.
• The agent should ask the seller whether he/she has dealt with the property in any manner within the past few months that might delay its delivery - for example registering a second bond over it.
• Find out what the seller's obligations to the current bondholder are.
• Ask the seller about any peculiar quirks relating to the property such as patent but obscured defects or onerous conditions attached to the property.
• On taking the offer from the purchaser, draw his/her attention to all the costs which he/she could incur and particularly those which must be paid in advance of the transfer being registered.
• Insist that the conveyancer keeps one abreast of the matter's progress.