“PLS have been absolutely fantastic throughout the purchase of our first home. As first time buyers, there were lots of things we didn’t understand, but the team were incredibly helpful, patient, and took the time to explain everything clearly, making the whole process much less stressful. A special thank you to Amy Tinham, who has been amazing from start to finish. She has been so supportive, professional, and always happy to answer any questions we had. We truly couldn’t have asked for better service. Thank you so much to everyone at PLS. We would highly recommend them to anyone, especially first time buyers!”

-Sophie

First Time Buyers, Fully Supported

There is a lot to take in when you are buying your first home. Unfamiliar terminology, a process that can feel overwhelming, and plenty of questions that you might not even know how to ask. The team at PLS made sure nothing was left unclear, taking the time to explain every stage patiently and thoroughly until the client felt confident and informed throughout.

Patience That Made All the Difference

Being helpful is one thing, but being genuinely patient with every question, however big or small, is what truly sets a team apart. Throughout this transaction, the team never made the client feel like anything was too much trouble, and that approachability made the whole experience far less daunting than it might otherwise have been.

Clear Communication Throughout

Every step explained, every question answered, and a process that never left the client feeling uncertain about where things stood. Clear and consistent communication is at the heart of everything PLS does, and this review is a brilliant reminder of the difference it makes, particularly for those going through the process for the very first time.

Congratulations on Your First Home!

A huge congratulations on such an exciting milestone, and a brilliant well done to Amy and the entire team for making the whole experience such a positive one.

Are you a first time buyer looking for a team you can trust? We would love to help you take that first step. Get in touch today.

The post 5 Star Friday: “We Couldn’t Have Asked for Better Service” appeared first on PLS Solicitors.

Buying a property is equal parts exciting and overwhelming, and shared ownership comes with its own set of terms you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you’re just starting your property research or you’re mid-way through a purchase, this glossary is your go-to guide.

Basics of shared ownership

A government-backed scheme that lets you buy a share of a home, anywhere between 10% and 75% of its full market value, and pay a subsidised rent to a housing association on the share you don’t yet own.

Who is eligible for shared ownership?

To qualify for shared ownership, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Have a household income of no more than £80,000 per year (£90,000 in London)
• Not currently own another property.

What is a housing association?

The not-for-profit organisation that owns the share of the property you haven’t purchased yet. They’re your landlord for the portion you rent, and they’re involved at several key stages of your conveyancing: issuing your lease, approving your application, and managing the nomination period if you later sell.

What is the difference between a leasehold and freehold in shared ownership?

All shared ownership properties are sold on a leasehold basis. Checking the lease length before buying is important, as shorter leases can affect your ability to get a mortgage and reduce the property’s resale value.

Buying your share: deposits, shares and affordability

What is an initial share?

The percentage of the property you purchase at the outset, anywhere between 10% and 75%. Most buyers start between 25% and 50%, depending on their finances and the housing association’s requirements. Your deposit is calculated as a percentage of your share value, not the full property price.

How much deposit is needed for shared ownership?

Typically 5% to 10% of the value of your share, not the full property price. For example:

What is an affordability assessment?

Before approving your application, the housing association will usually require you to complete an affordability assessment. This is a check carried out by a nominated adviser to confirm that your total monthly costs (mortgage, rent and service charge combined) are manageable based on your income and outgoings.

What is the nomination period?

When a shared ownership property is sold by the housing association or by an existing owner, the housing association typically has a fixed period (often 8 weeks) during which they have first right to find a buyer themselves before the property is marketed more widely. Understanding this helps set realistic expectations on timing, both when buying and when selling.

The legal process in shared ownership

The legal process of transferring ownership of a property. Shared ownership conveyancing involves an extra layer of complexity because your solicitor works with both you and the housing association throughout: reviewing the lease, obtaining approvals, and managing their legal team.

What searches are carried out when buying a shared ownership home?

Your solicitor carries out searches shortly after instruction. The three main types are:

• Local authority search: reveals planning history and land charges
• Environmental search: flags flood risk and ground contamination
• Drainage search: confirms how the property connects to public sewers and water search and more

Your solicitor will advise which are necessary for your specific property.

What is a report on title?

A document your solicitor produces once they’ve reviewed the lease and all relevant legal paperwork. It summarises the key terms: your rent, service charge obligations, staircasing rights, and any restrictions on the property. This is presented in plain English, so you fully understand what you’re buying before you sign anything.

What happens at exchange of contracts?

The point at which the sale becomes legally binding. Both buyer and housing association (or seller) sign contracts, which are then formally exchanged between solicitors. Your deposit is paid at this stage. Neither party can pull out after exchange without significant financial penalty.

What happens on completion day?

The day the remaining funds are transferred and you receive your keys. For new build shared ownership, completion is often tied to the construction schedule. For resales, it typically follows exchange by one to four weeks. After completion, your solicitor registers your ownership at the Land Registry (your deeds / title register).

Owning your home and building equity

What is a service charge?

A regular payment (usually monthly or annual) to the housing association or management company covering the upkeep of communal areas, buildings insurance, and maintenance of shared facilities. Service charges vary considerably between properties so ask for the most recent confirmed figure before committing, as it directly affects your total monthly outgoings.

Do I pay ground rent on a shared ownership property?

On new leases, no. Following the Leasehold Reform (Ground Rent) Act 2022, ground rent on new leases is set at zero (known as a “peppercorn” rent). If you’re buying a resale on an older lease, check whether ground rent applies and on what terms, because some older leases included escalating clauses that can cause issues with mortgage lenders.

What is staircasing?

Staircasing is the process of buying additional shares in your property over time, increasing the percentage you own. Each time you staircase, a RICS valuer assesses the current market value and you buy the new share at that price. Know whether the cost of staircasing is worth it according to your needs.

What is final staircasing?

Purchasing the last share needed to reach 100% ownership. At this point, rent payments to the housing association stop entirely. For houses, you may also be able to buy the freehold at this stage.

What is a memorandum of staircasing?

A memorandum of staircasing is the legal document that records each staircasing transaction and is registered at the Land Registry. Your solicitor prepares this every time you purchase an additional share.

What is a RICS valuation and how much does it cost?

A RICS valuation is carried out by a surveyor registered with the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, and is required before each staircasing transaction to establish current market value. It’s usually valid for three months and typically costs between £300 and £500, paid by you.

Selling your shared ownership home

What is a shared ownership resale?

A resale is a shared ownership property sold by its current owner rather than by a housing association as a new build. Buying a resale means taking on the existing lease and share percentage. For sellers, the process involves notifying the housing association, commissioning a RICS valuation, and working through the nomination period before the property can be marketed more widely.

Who is the vendor?

The vendor is the seller of the property: either the housing association (in a new build) or the existing shared owner (in a resale).

Frequently asked questions

If any of these terms have raised questions about your own situation, our shared ownership team at PLS is here to help. We handle shared ownership transactions every day and are well-versed in working with housing associations across the country.

Get a quote today or contact us for a no-obligation conversation about your next steps.

The post Shared Ownership Explained: Your 2026 Glossary appeared first on PLS Solicitors.

“Amazing solicitors, we have used them for 2 moves now but this time they really smashed it. 7 weeks from contacting them we was in our new home, so fast and smooth. Lauren Smith was our case handler, she was the most helpful, professional and understanding person we could have wished for. Nothing was too much for her, her communication was perfect, everything was handled within minutes it seemed. Can’t thank her enough for getting us in our new home so fast and bump free! What a lady! Thanks so much to everyone from PLS!”

-Layla

Seven Weeks From First Contact to Moving In

A completion achieved in seven weeks is a brilliant result by any measure. It takes exceptional coordination, a proactive approach, and a case handler who stays on top of every detail to make a turnaround like that possible. Lauren and the wider team delivered exactly that, and the result exceeded even the client’s own expectations.

Returning Clients Say It Best

There is no greater sign of confidence than a client who comes back. This client has now trusted PLS with two of their moves, and on this occasion felt the team went above and beyond what they had experienced before. That consistency, and the drive to keep raising the bar, is something the whole team takes real pride in.

Communication That Never Kept Them Waiting

Everything handled within minutes, consistent updates, and a case handler who was always available and on top of every detail. Lauren’s communication throughout was described as perfect, and it is easy to see why. That level of responsiveness removes uncertainty and keeps the whole process moving forward without unnecessary delays.

Congratulations on Your New Home!

A huge congratulations to our clients on their second move with PLS, and a brilliant well done to Lauren and the entire team for delivering such an outstanding result.

Thinking about your next move? Whether it is your first purchase or your fifth, we would love to help make the process as fast, smooth, and stress-free as possible.

Get in touch today.

The post 5 Star Friday: “7 Weeks From First Contact to Moving In” appeared first on PLS Solicitors.

But staircasing isn’t automatic, and it isn’t always the right move at every stage. Here’s everything you need to know about how it works, what it costs, and how to decide whether it’s the right step for you. 

What is staircasing? 

Staircasing is the process of purchasing additional shares in your shared ownership property, on top of the share you originally bought.

Many people fund this by increasing their mortgage, but that’s not the only option. You may be able to use savings, an inheritance or another source of funds to buy the additional share instead.

As you increase the share you own, the rent you pay to your housing association on the remaining share reduces proportionally. If you increase your mortgage to fund the purchase, your monthly mortgage payments will usually rise. If you fund the purchase without borrowing more, your mortgage can stay at the same level while your rent reduces.

For example, if you currently own 40% of your home and staircase to 60%, you’ll own a larger share of the property and pay rent on the remaining 40%. Depending on how you’ve funded the purchase, your mortgage payments may increase or remain the same, but your monthly rent bill will reduce.

How much can you staircase at a time? 

This depends on when your lease was granted. 

The introduction of 1% annual staircasing under the 2021 model was a significant change, designed to make it more accessible for shared owners to gradually build equity without needing to save for a large lump sum. If you’re unsure which type of lease you have, your solicitor or housing association can confirm this. 

How is the price calculated? 

This is the crucial detail that catches many shared owners off guard! You don’t buy additional shares at the price you originally paid. 

Each time you staircase, your housing association will commission a RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) registered valuer to assess the current market value of the property. Your new share is priced based on that current valuation. 

Let’s understand with an example: 

Let’s suppose you are planning to buy a 40% share of a property when it was valued at £250,000. Your initial share was worth £100,000. 

Three years later, you decide to staircase to 60%. The property is now valued at £300,000. 

• The additional 20% share is now calculated on £300,000, not the original £250,000 

• 20% of £300,000 = £60,000 (not the £50,000 it would have been at purchase) 

• But your 40% share has also grown in value from £100,000 to £120,000, so you’ve already benefited from that increase too 

This is why staircasing is most financially attractive in a rising market, where your existing equity has grown alongside the additional cost. 

What are the costs involved? 

Staircasing isn’t free; you’ll need to budget for the following: 

• RICS valuation — typically £300 to £500, commissioned before each transaction 

• Solicitor’s fees — your conveyancer will handle the legal side of the staircasing transaction 

• Stamp Duty Land Tax — may become payable depending on the value of your accumulated share (your solicitor will advise) 

• Mortgage arrangement fees — if you’re remortgaging to fund the purchase 

It’s worth speaking to a mortgage adviser before committing, as your existing lender may not offer the best rate for the increased share. 

What happens when you reach 100%? 

When you purchase the final share needed to reach full ownership, rent payments to your housing association stop entirely. For houses (not flats), you may also be able to purchase the freehold at this stage, becoming the outright owner of both the property and the land it sits on. 

Only around 2.6% of shared owners fully staircase to 100% each year, which shows that most people find a share level that works for them and stay there, rather than treating 100% as an automatic goal. 

So is it worth it? 

Staircasing makes the most sense when: 

• Property values in your area have risen significantly, and you want to lock in more equity before they rise further 

• Your income has grown, and you can comfortably afford the increased mortgage 

• Your rent payments are a significant monthly outgoing, and you want to reduce them 

• You’re planning to sell and want to maximise your return 

It’s worth reviewing every few years rather than leaving it entirely. Even a small staircase, particularly under the 1% annual option, can make a meaningful difference to your financial position over time. 

If you’re buying, selling or remortgaging a shared ownership property and have questions about staircasing, our shared ownership solicitors team at PLS can help you understand your legal options. Get in touch to find out more.

Get a quote today or speak to our team to find out more. 

The post What is Staircasing in Shared Ownership? Is It Worth It?  appeared first on PLS Solicitors.

Shared ownership remains one of the most popular ways for first-time buyers to get onto the property ladder, yet it’s still widely misunderstood. 

More than 250,000 households now live in shared ownership homes across England, and the scheme has evolved significantly in recent years. If you’re considering buying a shared ownership property, here are seven common myths and the reality behind them. 

Myth 1: You have to buy at least 25% of the property 

Not anymore! 

This was true under the older shared ownership model, but the scheme was updated in 2021. Under the current model, you can purchase a share of as little as 10% of a property’s full market value, making it accessible to buyers in higher-priced areas where even a 25% share was out of reach. 

The maximum initial share remains 75%. Most buyers purchase somewhere between 25% and 50%, but the 10% entry point means the scheme now works for a wider range of buyers and locations.

Myth 2: Shared ownership is more expensive than renting 

The numbers say otherwise 

Shared owners pay a mortgage on the share they own and subsidised rent on the remaining share. According to Connells Group’s Q1 2026 data, the average combined monthly cost of the mortgage and subsidised rent for a 40% shared ownership home is around £747 per month. 

In many parts of the country, that’s significantly lower than private renting. Unlike renting, shared ownership also allows you to build equity in your home over time. 

Myth 3: You can’t make changes to the property 

You can, within reason. 

Shared owners can decorate and make internal improvements much like any other homeowner. For larger structural alterations, such as loft conversions or extensions, you’ll usually need permission from the housing association as well as any necessary planning approvals. 

This is similar to the restrictions that apply to many leasehold properties. 

Myth 4: “It’s difficult to sell a shared ownership home” 

Shared ownership homes have a well-established resale process. 

The process is more straightforward than many people think. 

Most housing associations have a nomination period, typically around eight weeks, during which they can try to find an eligible buyer. If they don’t, the property can usually be marketed more widely. 

As shared ownership has become more common, the resale market has grown significantly, making it easier for owners to sell when the time comes. 

Myth 5: You Must Eventually Own 100% of the Property 

There’s no requirement to staircase at all. 

Staircasing (buying additional shares in your property over time) is entirely optional. Many shared owners remain at their original share level for years because it suits their finances and housing needs. 

In fact, only around 2.6% of shared owners fully staircase to 100% ownership each year.  

You can increase your share when it makes sense for you, but there’s no requirement to staircase to full ownership. 

Myth 6: “Shared ownership is only for new builds” 

Resales are an increasingly popular option. 

While shared ownership is often associated with new-build developments, resale properties are becoming increasingly popular. A shared ownership resale allows you to purchase an existing owner’s share and continue staircasing if you choose. 

Resales can offer excellent value and provide access to established neighbourhoods where new-build homes may be limited. 

Myth 7: Shared Ownership Conveyancing Is Too Complicated 

It doesn’t have to be. 

Shared ownership purchases involve additional legal requirements because housing associations are involved in the transaction. However, an experienced conveyancing solicitor will guide you through the process, explain the lease and liaise with the housing association on your behalf. 

With the right legal support, buying a shared ownership home is no more daunting than any other property purchase. As with any property transaction, understanding the key stages of shared ownership in advance can help avoid delays. 

Is Shared Ownership Worth It in 2026? 

For many first-time buyers, shared ownership offers an affordable route into homeownership that might otherwise be out of reach. 

The scheme is now more flexible than ever, with lower entry requirements, a growing resale market, and no obligation to staircase. Understanding how shared ownership really works can help you decide whether it’s the right option for your circumstances. 

The post Shared Ownership Myths Debunked: The Truth for First-Time Buyers  appeared first on PLS Solicitors.

Navigating an Unfamiliar Legal System

The UK conveyancing process can feel complex even for those who have been through it before. For an international buyer encountering it for the first time, the process requires a team that is not only legally expert but also patient, thorough, and committed to making sure nothing is left unclear. Every step was explained in detail, and the client never felt lost or uncertain about where things stood.

Handling Gift Money With Care and Precision

Gift money can be one of the more sensitive and complicated aspects of a property transaction, requiring specific documentation and careful handling to avoid delays. The team explained exactly what was needed, helped prepare everything correctly, and managed all the necessary checks efficiently, ensuring the process moved forward without any unnecessary hold ups.

Proactive From Every Angle

Dealing with the seller’s solicitors, the bank, and the agents simultaneously requires real coordination and a proactive approach. Rather than waiting for issues to arise, the team stayed ahead of every aspect of the transaction, giving the client full confidence that their case was being managed carefully and that their interests were always being protected.

Congratulations on Your First UK Property!

A huge congratulations to our client on completing such a significant purchase, and a brilliant well done to Chloe and the team for going above and beyond every step of the way.

Are you an international buyer looking to purchase property in the UK? Get in touch with our team today to find out how we can help make the process as smooth and straightforward as possible.

The post 5 Star Friday: “Exceeded My Expectations in Speed, Professionalism and Trustworthiness” appeared first on PLS Solicitors.

This guide explains the process from instruction through to completion. 

What is shared ownership conveyancing? 

Shared ownership conveyancing is the legal process of buying a share of a property (usually between 10% and 75%) while paying rent on the remaining portion to a housing association. 

A key feature of shared ownership is staircasing, which allows you to buy additional shares over time until you potentially own 100% of the property. Each staircasing transaction requires further legal work and valuation. 

Because of the housing association’s involvement, your solicitor must review both the mortgage purchase and the lease, making the process more detailed than standard conveyancing. 

Why shared ownership conveyancing is different 

In a standard purchase, your solicitor deals mainly with you and the seller’s solicitor. In shared ownership, the housing association is involved throughout. 

They are involved in: 

• Issuing and approving the lease  
• Providing management information  
• Responding to legal enquiries  
• Signing off key stages of the process  

Because of this extra involvement, shared ownership conveyancing typically takes 10 to 14 weeks, compared to around 8 to 12 weeks for a standard purchase. 

Step-by-Step Shared Ownership Conveyancing Process

Step 1: Instruct your solicitor 

Once your offer has been accepted and you have approval from the housing association, you’ll formally instruct a conveyancing solicitor. At this stage, your solicitor will: 

• Complete identity and anti-money laundering checks  
• Verify your source of funds  
• Review your mortgage agreement in principle or formal offer  
• Set up your case and begin acting on your behalf  

It’s best to instruct your solicitor as early as possible so there are no delays once documents are issued. 

Step 2: Draft contract and shared ownership lease review 

The housing association’s solicitors will issue the draft contract and lease. 

This is one of the most important stages in shared ownership conveyancing, as your solicitor will carefully review the lease, including: 

• Length of lease remaining  
• Rent review clauses and how rent may increase  
• Service charge obligations  
• Staircasing rights (buying additional shares later)  
• Restrictions on use or alterations  
• Ground rent provisions (where applicable)  

This stage can take time depending on how quickly the housing association responds. 

Step 3: Property Searches 

Your solicitor will order standard conveyancing searches, which include so many different things, such as environmental and water searches, and more, to identify any issues affecting the property different type of search type below

Step 4: Raise enquiries 

Once your solicitor has reviewed the lease and search results, they will raise enquiries with the housing association’s solicitors. 

This is a normal part of the process where your solicitor asks for clarification on any unclear or missing information. 

There may be several rounds of questions before everything is fully resolved. 

Step 5: Report on title and mortgage offer 

When all legal issues are addressed, your solicitor will prepare a report on title. 

This document explains: 

• What you are buying  
• Key terms of the lease  
• Your rights and obligations in plain English  

Your solicitor will also work with your mortgage lender to ensure they are satisfied with the legal position before funds are released. 

Step 6: Exchange of contracts 

Once everything is agreed and your mortgage offer is in place, you will sign your contract. 

Your solicitor will then exchange contracts with the housing association’s solicitor. 

At this point: 

• The purchase becomes legally binding 
• Your completion date is set 
• Your deposit is paid 

After exchange, neither party can withdraw without serious financial consequences. 

Step 7: Completion and getting your keys 

Completion is the final stage of shared ownership conveyancing! 

On completion day: 

• Your solicitor transfers funds to the housing association  
• Ownership of your share is legally transferred  
• You receive the keys and can move in  

After completion, your solicitor will also register your ownership with the Land Registry. This process can take a few weeks but does not affect your ability to occupy the property. 

How long does shared ownership conveyancing take? 

On average, shared ownership conveyancing takes 10 to 14 weeks. 

However, timelines can vary depending on: 

• How quickly the housing association responds  
• The complexity of the lease  
• Whether it is a new build or resale property  
• Mortgage approval times 

Delays are most commonly caused by slow turnaround times from housing associations rather than solicitors. 

Can you buy a shared ownership property on a new build? 

Yes! Shared ownership is commonly available on new build homes and is one of the main ways the scheme is offered. 

With new builds, you are often buying a property still under construction or recently completed in partnership with a housing association. 

The legal process is the same, but there are a few key differences: 

• Completion depends on build progress  
• Properties must be certified as ready for occupation  
• Mortgage offers may need to remain valid for longer  
• Completion dates can shift with construction timelines  

Your solicitor will still handle the usual conveyancing steps, including lease review, searches, enquiries, and exchange. 

Can you sell a shared ownership property? 

Yes! But the housing association is involved in the process. 

Before selling, you must usually notify your housing association, who may have the right to find a buyer first. 

The process typically includes: 

• Informing the housing association  
• Getting a valuation of your share  
• Allowing a nomination period for the housing association to find a buyer  
• Selling on the open market if no buyer is found (depending on the lease)  
• Completing conveyancing once a buyer is secured  

If you own 100%, the property is usually sold as a standard leasehold sale with fewer restrictions. 

Ready to get started? 

If you’re buying a shared ownership property, having the right legal support can make all the difference. 

Get a quote today to start your conveyancing process and we’ll guide you from instruction through to completion! 

The post Shared Ownership Conveyancing Explained: Step-by-Step Guide (UK)  appeared first on PLS Solicitors.

A common question conveyancers hear at this time of year is: “Can I still complete on my house purchase if I’m going on holiday?” 

The good news is that in many cases, yes, you can. However, there are a few important things to consider if you’re hoping to move before your summer break or if your completion date falls while you’re away. 

How does Residential Conveyancing work?

Completion is the stage where ownership of the property officially transfers from seller to buyer. Although it marks a major milestone in your residential conveyancing journey, much of the legal work is usually completed well beforehand.

Tell Your Conveyancer Your Holiday Dates Early 

This is the most important thing you can do. The earlier your conveyancer knows about any dates you’re unavailable, the more they can work towards completing before you travel, or flag early if the timeline is unrealistic. 

Leaving it until a week before you fly is too late. By that point, your conveyancer may already be working towards a completion date that falls while you’re away and unpicking that in a chain affects everyone. 

As soon as your holiday is booked, let your conveyancer know. It’s a five-minute conversation that can save a significant amount of stress.  early can help avoid unnecessary delays. 

Understand What Can Cause Delays and Get Ahead of Them 

Conveyancing timelines are rarely fully within your control, but there are things on your side of the transaction that are. Common causes of delay that buyers can influence include: 

• Outstanding paperwork 

Unsigned documents, incomplete forms, or slow responses to queries from your solicitor are among the most frequent causes of holdups. If you have a holiday deadline in mind, make sure you’re turning around anything your conveyancer sends you as quickly as possible. 

• ID and anti-money laundering checks 

These are required for every transaction and need to be completed before exchange. Don’t leave them until the last minute. 

• Deposit funds 

Your deposit needs to be transferred to your solicitor before the exchange of contracts. Make sure you know when this needs to happen and that the funds are ready. 

• Mortgage conditions 

If your lender has outstanding conditions on your mortgage offer, these need to be resolved before your solicitor can proceed. Chase your broker or lender if anything is unclear. 

Planning Ahead Can Make Summer Moves Easier 

Moving home and planning a holiday at the same time can feel overwhelming, but with early preparation and clear communication, both can often be managed successfully. 

If you’re planning a summer move, speaking to your conveyancer as early as possible can help minimise delays and keep your transaction on track for your preferred completion date. 

FAQ

The post Planning a Holiday This Summer? Here’s What Your Conveyancer Needs to Know  appeared first on PLS Solicitors.

However, the new-build home buying process in the UK works differently from purchasing an existing property. Understanding how completion works, what to expect from developers, and how to prepare financially and legally can make your move far smoother. 

Here’s what you need to know when buying a new-build home this summer. 

Why Summer Is a Peak Season for New-Build Home Completions in the UK 

Summer is traditionally one of the most active periods for new-build property completions across the UK. 

Key reasons include: 

• Longer daylight hours and better weather conditions for viewings, inspections, and removals  

• Developers targeting end-of-season completion deadlines  

• Newly laid turf and landscaping establish more successfully during summer months.  

• External snagging issues are easier to identify in dry weather.  

• Buyers can test ventilation and solar gain before winter arrives.  

For many buyers, completing in summer also means settling in before the busy autumn and winter months. 

Understanding the New-Build Completion Process 

As construction nears completion, developers will issue a Notice to Complete. This is the trigger point that takes the new-build process from reservation to legal completion, and a specialist in new-build conveyancing becomes essential for you at this point
at this stage.

This is an important stage in the new-build process: 

• It confirms the property is ready for occupation  

• It triggers a strict legal completion timeframe  

• Buyers must ensure mortgage funds and the deposit are in place  

• Removal and moving plans should already be arranged  

Because notice periods are often short, preparation is essential to avoid delays or penalties or, in worst cases, losing your reservation deposit. Have your agreement in principle current and a conveyancer engaged before the Notice arrives.

5 Things to Do When Moving Into a New-Build Home in Summer 

Summer is the perfect time to get familiar with your new home and make practical adjustments early. 

1. Check how your home handles summer heat 

Assess how different rooms respond to warmer temperatures so you can plan cooling, shading, and furniture placement effectively. Open windows throughout the home and observe how air moves between rooms. Identifying natural cooling patterns can help improve comfort during warmer months and highlight any areas where additional ventilation may be beneficial. It’s also a good opportunity to familiarise yourself with any ventilation systems installed in your new-build home. 

2. Observe natural light throughout the day

Summer provides the longest daylight hours, making it the ideal time to understand how sunlight moves through your home. Notice which rooms receive morning or evening sun and how this affects comfort and daily use. 

This can help you make informed decisions about furniture layouts, home working spaces, and where additional shading may be beneficial. 

3. Give your new-build garden time to establish

New-build gardens simply need time. Fresh turf often requires a full growing season to establish properly, while newly landscaped areas can continue settling during the first year. 

Follow your developer’s guidance on watering and mowing and avoid major landscaping projects until the ground has fully settled. It’s also worth checking whether your purchase agreement includes any restrictions on fences, outbuildings, trees, or other garden alterations during the early years of the development. 

4. Review window glare and sun exposure

Large windows are a popular feature in many new-build homes, helping maximise natural light. During summer, however, they can also increase glare and solar gain in certain rooms. 

Monitor how sunlight affects different areas throughout the day so you can decide where blinds, curtains, window films, or other shading solutions may improve comfort and energy efficiency.  

5. Spot and report snagging issues early

Summer’s dry, bright conditions make it easier to inspect the exterior of your property. Check for issues such as cracks in render, uneven paving, drainage concerns, gaps around external fixtures, or problems with guttering and downpipes. 

If you identify anything that needs attention, record it and raise it with your developer as part of the snagging process. Addressing issues early can help ensure they are resolved before autumn and winter weather arrive. Most issues fall under your NHBC, LABC, or Premier Guarantee warranty; these will be covered by the New-build conveyancing, which will help clarify the warranty scope for your new property purchase.

How a Conveyancing Solicitor Can Help With Your New-Build Purchase 

New-build purchases often involve more complex legal checks than standard property transactions. 

A specialist conveyancing solicitor will typically review: 

• Developer contracts and terms of sale  

• Planning permission and building regulations  

• New home warranty documentation (e.g. NHBC or equivalent)  

• Drainage, roads, and adoption agreements  

• Completion schedules and legal deadlines  

Having expert legal support helps reduce risk and keeps your purchase progressing smoothly from reservation to completion. 

Get Moving this Summer! 

Buying a new-build home in summer can be an exciting step, offering the chance to move into a modern property at the perfect time of year. However, understanding the new-build completion process, preparing for a Notice to Complete, and planning practical details such as heat, light, and outdoor space will help ensure a smoother move 

At PLS Solicitors, our experienced conveyancing team supports buyers through every stage of the new-build purchase process, from reservation through to completion. If you’re buying a new-build home this summer, we’re here to help keep your transaction on track so you can focus on settling into your new home. 

The post Buying a New-Build Home in Summer? What Buyers Need to Know Before Completion  appeared first on PLS Solicitors.

“Buying our first home felt overwhelming at times, but the entire process was made so much easier thanks to the exceptional support and guidance we received from our solicitor Michelle. Her professionalism, attention to detail, and willingness to answer all of our questions gave us complete confidence throughout the transaction. Nothing ever felt like too much trouble, and she worked hard to ensure everything progressed as smoothly as possible. We are incredibly grateful for all her help in making our first home purchase such a positive experience and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend PLS to anyone looking for a reliable, knowledgeable, and friendly solicitor. Thank you for helping us reach such an important milestone!”

-Stephanie

A Big Step, Made Manageable

Buying a first home is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. There is a lot to take in, a lot of paperwork, and a lot of unfamiliar terminology. Having someone who takes the time to guide you through every stage with patience and clarity turns what can feel like a daunting process into something far more manageable.

Confidence Built on Attention to Detail

Throughout the transaction, Michelle’s professionalism and thorough approach gave this client real confidence that everything was being handled with care. Knowing that nothing is being missed and that every detail is being looked after is one of the most reassuring things a first time buyer can feel.

Nothing Ever Too Much Trouble

Every question was welcomed, every concern was addressed, and nothing ever felt like an inconvenience. That kind of approachability is so important, particularly for first time buyers who may not always know what to ask or when to ask it.

Congratulations on Your First Home!

A huge congratulations to our client on reaching such an important milestone, and a brilliant well done to Michelle for making the whole experience such a positive one.

Are you a first time buyer looking for a team you can trust? We would love to help you take that first step. Get in touch today.

The post 5 Star Friday: “Helping Us Reach Such an Important Milestone” appeared first on PLS Solicitors.