Frequently asked questions

Properties.co.uk is a UK property directory and guide. We help you find the professionals involved in buying, selling, renting and improving a home, and explain each step in plain English.

Not at the moment. We focus on the agents and specialists you need along the way. For homes for sale, contact local estate agents or use the major property portals.

No. Searching the directories, reading the guides and contacting businesses is free. Any fees are agreed directly between you and the business you choose.

No. Our guides are general information. For advice on your own situation, speak to a qualified solicitor, conveyancer, mortgage adviser or financial adviser.

An agreement (or decision) in principle is a lender’s indication of how much it might lend you, based on an initial check. It is not a guaranteed offer, but having one shows agents and sellers that you are a serious buyer.

Budget for your deposit, Stamp Duty Land Tax in England and Northern Ireland (or the equivalent tax in Scotland and Wales), conveyancing fees and searches, a survey, mortgage fees and removals.

Ask two or three local estate agents for a valuation and to show you the sold prices behind their figure. You can also request a valuation through our valuation page.

An EPC rates a home’s energy efficiency from A to G. You need a valid one before you market a home for sale or to let, and it lasts for ten years.

A tax paid when you buy property or land over a certain price in England and Northern Ireland. Scotland has Land and Buildings Transaction Tax and Wales has Land Transaction Tax. Use the official calculators for a current figure.

In England, most tenant fees are banned. You can be asked for a holding deposit of up to one week’s rent, a tenancy deposit of up to five weeks’ rent (where the annual rent is under £50,000) and rent in advance.

Checks a landlord or letting agent carries out on a prospective tenant, usually covering identity, income, previous landlords and credit history.

Sometimes. It depends on local demand and how long the home has been available. A strong application helps.

Get several written quotes, check insurance and any registration that applies (for example the Gas Safe Register for gas work), and ask for recent references.

A broker searches the lenders they have access to, knows which are likely to accept your circumstances and manages the application. Check that any broker is on the Financial Conduct Authority register.

Most are paid by the lender when your mortgage completes, and some also charge you a fee. A broker must tell you how they are paid before giving advice.

Use the List Your Business page to send us your details. We review each business before it is listed.