Changing Property Ownership? We Can Help
Whether you are adding a partner to your property, removing a former spouse following a separation, transferring ownership between family members, or buying out a joint owner, a Transfer of Equity changes the legal ownership of a property and must be completed correctly.
Our experienced conveyancing team can guide you through the process, liaise with mortgage lenders where required and ensure the ownership change is properly registered with HM Land Registry.
RG Law can provide clear advice, transparent pricing and practical support throughout the transaction, helping you understand your options and the legal implications before any changes are made.
Request a Transfer of Equity Conveyancing Quote Today.
Why Choose RG Law?
Experienced Property Lawyers and Solicitors
Our specialist conveyancing team handles property transactions across England and Wales every day.
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We explain the legal process in straightforward language and keep you informed throughout.
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Track your matter online 24/7 while still having access to a dedicated team when you need support.
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We provide clear quotations so you understand the costs involved from the outset.
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When Might You Need a Transfer of Equity?
People commonly require a Transfer of Equity when:
Marriage or Cohabitation
You wish to add your spouse or partner to the ownership of your home.
Separation or Divorce
One owner wishes to retain the property and remove the other owner's interest.
Buying Out Another Owner
You are purchasing another owner's share of the property.
Family Transfers You wish to gift part or all of your ownership to a child, parent or other family member. Estate Planning Property ownership is being reorganised as part of wider family arrangements. Remortgaging Some lenders require ownership changes to be completed alongside a remortgage transaction.
How RG Law Can Help
A Transfer of Equity may appear straightforward, but mistakes can create future ownership disputes, mortgage issues or registration delays.
Our conveyancing team will:
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Review the property's title
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Check for restrictions affecting the transfer
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Prepare the legal documentation
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Liaise with your mortgage lender where required
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Explain ownership options available to you
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Advise on Joint Tenants and Tenants in Common arrangements
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Complete the transfer documentation
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Register the ownership changes with HM Land Registry
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Keep you updated throughout the transaction
We will explain the process in plain English so you understand exactly what is happening and what information we need from you.
Transfers Involving a Mortgage
If there is an existing mortgage secured against the property, the lender will usually need to approve the proposed transfer before it can proceed.
The lender may:
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Carry out affordability assessments
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Conduct credit checks
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Require a new mortgage deed
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Require a party to be released from mortgage liability
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Impose additional conditions before consent is granted
Where lender consent is needed, we will work directly with the lender to help satisfy their requirements and progress the transaction as efficiently as possible.
Joint Tenants or Tenants in Common?
When two or more people own a property together, it is important to choose the ownership structure that best reflects your intentions.
Joint Tenants
Joint Tenants own the whole property together in equal shares. If one owner dies, their share automatically passes to the surviving owner.
Tenants in Common Tenants in Common can own different percentages of the property. Each owner's share forms part of their estate and can be left to chosen beneficiaries through their Will. We can explain the advantages and implications of each arrangement before the transfer is completed.
Declaration of Trust
Where owners are contributing different amounts towards a property, a Declaration of Trust can record:
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Ownership percentages
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Contributions towards deposits
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Mortgage contributions
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Responsibility for future costs
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How sale proceeds will be divided
A Declaration of Trust can provide clarity and help reduce the risk of disputes in the future.
Transfer of Equity Costs and Taxes The cost of a Transfer of Equity will depend on the circumstances of the transaction. Potential costs may include: Legal fees HM Land Registry fees Identification and compliance checks Mortgage lender administration fees Declaration of Trust fees (where required) Stamp Duty Land Tax and Land Transaction Tax A Transfer of Equity can sometimes trigger a tax liability. For properties in England, Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) may be payable. For properties in Wales, Land Transaction Tax (LTT) may apply. Tax can arise not only where money changes hands, but also where responsibility for part of an existing mortgage is transferred to another owner. Every situation is different and the tax position will depend on the individual circumstances of the transfer. We will explain the conveyancing requirements and, where appropriate, you may wish to obtain specialist tax advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add someone to my property deeds?
Yes. A Transfer of Equity is commonly used to add a spouse, partner or family member to the legal ownership of a property.
Can I remove an ex-partner from a property?
Yes. This often occurs following a separation or divorce. If there is a mortgage, lender consent will usually be required.
Do I need a solicitor for a Transfer of Equity?
While legal representation is not always legally required, many mortgage lenders insist on using a solicitor or licensed conveyancer, and professional advice can help ensure the transfer is completed correctly.
Do all parties need separate legal advice? Not necessarily. Whether separate advice is required will depend on the circumstances, lender requirements and whether there is a potential conflict of interest. We can advise on the most appropriate approach at the outset. How long does a Transfer of Equity take? Timescales vary depending on factors such as lender requirements, the complexity of the ownership arrangements and HM Land Registry processing times.
