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

1. Search

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

2. Semi-detached

   A property which is joined to one other house.

3. Service charge

   See Maintenance Charge.

4. Sole agent

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

5. Solicitor

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

6. Stamp duty

   A tax paid by purchasers of properties with a value in excess of £125,000, of between 1% and 4% depending on value.

7. Structural survey

   See Building survey.

8. 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.

9. Subject to Contract

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

10. Surveyor

    Professionally-qualified expert who carries out the survey.

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