Registering house & work to be done Q's

Benny24

We have a house that is to be sold however I have a few questions you may be able to help with...

1. The hosue is currently not registered with the Land Registry. It was left to me in my mothers will, and as yet is not listed in my name which it will have to be on selling. Is is better/cheaper to do all this (ie instruct a solicitor) and the sale in one go, or does it have to be registered before we can instruct estate agents?

2. The house needs work doing to it, it's not a wreck but it will need new kitchen, bathroom, newer double glazing, some building work, painting out and re dec inside. Is it really worth shelling out for this work to be done before sale? I am loathe to do this as it is an ideal property, ripe for a family to renovate to their choice. But would like to get the best price possible.

Any suggestions gratefully received.

Richard_Webster

As a Conveyancing Solicitor I can answer the first part of this at least.

I assume you are the executor. If so, you can sell in that capacity rather than signing an assent to transfer capacity to you beneficially. If you do an assent then that causes first registration and you have to pay the fee for that and there is some legal work involved. Unless the legal title is very complicated indeed in the majority of cases there is no point in doing this - why not let the buyer's solicitor register the title?

Benny24

Richard, Thanks for your rely and I was the executor. Although I have just thought of some additional details that may make a difference?!
Does the fact that the house was left to me some time ago and that I actually live in the house, make any difference to your suggestion?

I don't believe the legal title is complicated. The deeds are currently in my mothers name and the will leaves the house to me.