A transfer of equity is a legal process that typically occurs when individuals want to change the ownership structure of a property, either by adding or removing individuals from the title deeds. The process may be due to a marriage, a divorce, or financial restructuring.
Ensure you employ a well-regarded transfer of equity solicitor, such as www.parachutelaw.co.uk/transfer-of-equity-solicitor. A reputable solicitor will understand the intricacies of property law and can navigate the process efficiently.
The process
1. If you have a mortgage, the first step is to secure the lender’s permission for an equity transfer. If they are in agreement, a new mortgage offer will be issued with the names of the new owners.
2. Your conveyancing solicitor will acquire the title documents from HM Land Registry, verifying the current registered owners and identifying any property restrictions before proceeding with the transfer.
3. Your solicitor, post-title confirmation, will draft the transfer deed (TR1). This deed specifies the current and new owner details, including considerations such as mortgage debt.
4. If applicable, your solicitor will prepare the stamp duty land tax (SDLT) return.
5. Once everyone is in agreement and all parties have signed the transfer deed, the transaction will be registered with HM Land Registry.
How much time does it take for a transfer of equity?
If all parties are in agreement on the terms, the process is generally relatively swift. Any delays that occur often stem from challenges in securing the mortgage lender’s consent, but a standard and uncomplicated transfer of equity usually takes between two and four weeks. It is important to note that the official registration with HM Land Registry may extend the overall duration, as this step tends to take longer than the primary transfer process.