Topic 6 - Completion Flashcards
(88 cards)
What is the role of the seller in the completion process?
Draft/approve Transfer Deed (TR1), rely on Completion Information, prepare for completion
The seller’s responsibilities also include arranging the execution of the transfer.
What is the role of the buyer in the completion process?
Draft/approve Transfer Deed (TR1), request Completion Information, perform Pre-Completion Searches, prepare for completion
The buyer’s responsibilities include ensuring all necessary documents are in order.
What is a key difference between exchange and completion?
Exchange is tense; completion is often more relaxed
Completion can feel anti-climactic, especially in complex transactions.
What should be included in the buyer’s solicitor’s checklist before completion?
Draft transfer deed, arrange buyer’s signature, execute legal charge if applicable, send requisitions, carry out searches, send certificate of title, request loan advance, provide statement of money needed, approve Stamp Duty Land Tax form
Each step is crucial to ensure a smooth completion process.
What should be included in the seller’s solicitor’s checklist before completion?
Approve transfer deed, execute transfer, reply to requisitions, request redemption statement, take final meter readings
These steps help finalize the seller’s obligations.
Who traditionally drafts the transfer deed?
The seller’s solicitor drafts the contract; the buyer’s solicitor drafts the transfer deed
This is the default position in Standard Conditions of Sale.
What is the required form of a transfer of land?
It must be in the form of a deed as per s52, Law of Property Act 1925
This applies to both registered and unregistered land.
What is the TR1 form used for?
It transfers the whole of a freehold or leasehold title
TR1 is the most common Land Registry transfer form.
What is the purpose of the OS1 or OS2 search?
To update official copies and confer a priority period of 30 working days
This search protects the buyer’s ability to obtain title.
What does a land charges search (Form K15) identify?
Incumbrances or adverse matters registered against the owner/seller
It is crucial for unregistered land transactions.
What happens if the buyer’s solicitor does not carry out the OS1 search?
It may lead to professional negligence and potential financial loss
The buyer’s solicitor could face litigation if issues arise post-completion.
What is the significance of the priority period in a land charges search?
It is 15 working days, and priority is obtained by completing the transaction within that time
This is different from registered land where priority is obtained by applying for registration.
What must an individual do to execute the transfer deed?
Sign in presence of an independent witness who also signs and prints their name and address
This is required under s1(3)(a)(i), Law of Property (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1989.
What are the options for a company executing a deed?
- Company seal with signatures
- Two directors or one director and secretary
- One director with witness
- Senior employee with power of attorney
Company policies on executing deeds may vary.
What is included in the transfer wording of the TR1?
The wording ‘The transferor transfers the property to the transferee’
This wording is standard and cannot be amended.
What is the purpose of pre-completion searches?
To check and protect the buyer’s ability to obtain title to the property
They differ from pre-exchange searches which investigate property issues.
What does Panel 8 of the TR1 form address?
Consideration for the transfer, with options for monetary and non-monetary transfers
It includes tick box options for different types of consideration.
What does Panel 10 of the TR1 form address?
Declaration of trust for the transferees
It specifies how legal and beneficial titles are held.
What happens if the seller does not disclose adverse issues before completion?
The buyer may have a claim for damages or rescind the contract
Disclosure is crucial to avoid legal repercussions.
What is the maximum number of transferees that can be named in the TR1?
Four transferees
This limits the number of parties involved in the transfer.
What does a land charges search prioritize?
The buyer completing the transaction within a priority period of 15 working days
This priority is distinct from applying for registration.
When should a land charges search against the seller be carried out?
Just before completion
This gives a sufficient priority period to complete the purchase.
What is the purpose of a bankruptcy search (Form K16)?
To protect the lender when acting for the buyer and lender
It checks for the buyer’s insolvency status.
What type of search is required if the buyer is a company?
A company search to check for pending insolvency or crystallisation of a floating charge
This search should be carried out as late as possible.