Jargon Buster

Understand property related jargon.

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

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A request or enquiry for information concerning the property held by a local authority or by the land registry.
Semi-detached

A property which is joined to one other house.
Service charge

See Maintenance Charge.
Sole agent

When a seller chooses only one estate agent to sell their home.
Solicitor

Legal expert handling all documentation for the sale or purchase of a property.
Stamp duty

A tax paid by purchasers of properties with a value in excess of Ł125,000, of between 1% and 4% depending on value.
Structural survey

See Building survey.
Studio Flat

A flat consisting of one main room or open-plan living area incorporating cooking and sleeping facilities and a separate bathroom/shower room.
Subject to Contract

Words to indicate that an agreement is not yet legally binding.
Surveyor

Professionally-qualified expert who carries out the survey.

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