Buy-to-let

Practice Area Specialist:

Karl Reynolds

Karl is a partner of the firm and deals with all areas of commercial and residential development and investment. His experience includes smaller investments for clients building residential portfolios through to being a lead partner on larger commercial schemes.

Whether you are a professional, first time or “accidental” landlord, Stillwells’ experienced conveyancing solicitors are on hand to assist you with the legalities involved in purchasing a buy-to-let property.

From property acquisition to refinancing your property portfolio, drawing up tenancy agreements, disputes and tax implications, Stillwells is able to assist you throughout the process.

By Choosing Stillwells to represent you, you will benefit from direct contact with a partner, regular updates and excellent value for money.

Stillwells is a member of The Law Society accredited Conveyancing Quality Scheme (CQS), which provides the added reassurance that we operate to the highest professional standards in addition to delivering outstanding customer service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a difference between buying a house to live in and buying to let?

Fundamentally the two transactions are the same, although you may treat the timing differently to make sure a property intended for letting is empty for the shortest possible time (whereas on a purchase to live in your will generally move straight in anyway). Where a property is already let your solicitor should ensure you obtain a Gas Safety Certificate as a minimum.

I am buying a house with a tenant in situ. Do I need a new tenancy agreement?

In short you do not need a new tenancy. On completion of the purchase you take over responsibility for the landlord obligations in the tenancy and your solicitor should notify the tenant that future rent must be paid to you by obtaining a rent authority letter from the Seller.

Are all residential tenancies the same?

All newly granted tenancies in England and Wales are Assured Shorthold Tenancies and governed by the same law. It is important to note however that some older tenancies may be “Rent Act” or “Assured Tenancies” which may give the tenant and anyone living with them additional rights over the property. It is important that you establish which tenancy you have and ensure your solicitor explains your obligations as Landlord. Rent Act and Assured Tenancies are becoming less common but where a tenant has been in occupation for a number of years the law may still apply (even if the tenant has since signed an Assured Shorthold Tenancy).

I am buying a flat and want to let it out. Is there any difference to letting a house?

A flat is held under a lease and so there are additional restrictions to be complied with. Most importantly you should ensure that your lease does not prohibit underletting. Such a clause would prevent you from letting the property and you would only be allowed to occupy yourself. You should bear in mind that in letting a flat, the service charge and ground rent remains your responsibility and the rent received must be sufficient to cover that cost

I am moving home and want to let out my existing house. Is there anything I need to be aware of?

If you have a mortgage your lender will need to consent to the letting. You will also need and Energy Performance Certificate in order to advertise the house for letting and a Gas Safety Certificate before any tenant moves in.

Landlords & Property Investors

Duncan

Steven Wood represented me recently to an extremely successful outcome. In simple terms, Steven's work is outstanding. His approach is clear, direct and transparent, and his professionalism of the highest order. I am fortunate to have had Steven alongside me in this difficult episode and I cannot recommend him highly enough.

Anne and Patrick

We are extremely grateful to Hanah for her help with our recent conveyancing. It has been a long haul, but thanks to her unstinting efforts and professionalism we are now in our new house, thank you!

Megan and Ed

Thank you so much for your help in getting us in today, Hanah. Had it not been for your persistence I think we might still be sat outside! Really appreciate all the extra care and effort you have given us over last few months – you are a star!

Richard and Sally B

Thank you so much for all your help with our house Hanah, we really appreciate it!

Steve G

Thank you for all your time and effort, Hanah. It has not been easy going for you, but we do appreciate everything you have done.

Giles- Branch Manager

Thank you so much for all your help Hanah with this transaction you’ve really made a massive difference.

Rob S

Hanah, thank you so much for completing the sale of my house. The effort you went to was amazing. I would never have got through it without your amazing help. I will certainly recommend you. Thanks again.

Steve D

Many thanks Emma, the service that you have provided has been first class

Carol

Emma, I’m really grateful for your sensitive as well as highly professional handling of the conveyancing of my properties. A stressful time made so much easier. Thank you.

Ali B

Emma, thank you for all your efforts to make our sale and purchase run as smoothly as possible. A work colleague is just starting a similar process and I have passed your details to him and told him he would be a fool not to employ you. If and when we ever do this again I will definitely be in touch.

Ray

Thank you Emma for your assistance with the sale. We have both commented on your very professional stance and yet slightly laid back way, which we appreciate. I would be delighted to use your services in the future.