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SMS
Short Message Service. Commonly known as text messages.
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Search
A request or enquiry for information concerning the property held by a local authority or by the Land Registry
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Semi-detached
A property which is joined to one other house.
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Service charge
Service charges are paid by the owner and cover the cost of providing various services (i.e. maintenance and repair of the building and common parts, provision of heating, lighting and security).
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Share of freehold
Where the freehold on which the property stands is owned by a limited company and the shareholders of that limited company are the owners of the property.
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Sole agent
When a seller chooses only one estate agent to sell their property.
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Sole occupancy
A property that is occupied (lived in) only by the mortgage applicant(s) and their direct family.
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Solicitor
A legal expert handling all documentation for the sale or purchase of a property.
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Stamp Duty
A government tax paid by the buyer of a property, which ranges between 0% and 12% depending on the value of the property.
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Standard variable rate
Mortgage lender's standard rate of interest, which may be increased or decreased periodically by the lender depending on prevailing economic conditions.
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Structural survey
This is based on a detailed inspection of the property and reports on the general structural condition.
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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.
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Subject to contract
Legal terminology that indicates an agreement is not yet legally binding and depends upon the terms yet to be agreed within the contract.
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Surveyor
A professional person qualified to estimate the value and condition of land and property.
