Common reasons for property transfers

Following a death

If a property owner has passed away, the steps required depend on how the property was owned - either as joint tenants or tenants in common.

We will

Review the ownership structure
Advise on the correct legal process
Work with our in-house Probate and Trusts team to support you and your family during this difficult time

After separation or divorce

If you’re transferring a property into one person’s name, it’s important to get the right legal advice - especially if the transfer is part of a financial settlement.

We will

Work closely with our Family Law team to protect your interests
Advise on Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) implications
Liaise with mortgage lenders and manage third-party involvement

Adding a joint owner

You may wish to add a partner or family member to your property title. We’ll help you understand:

The difference between joint tenants and tenants in common
Potential implications for bankruptcy, care fees, and inheritance
Whether Stamp Duty Land Tax applies

We’ll also liaise with your mortgage lender and ensure the process is handled efficiently.

Transferring property to children

As part of your estate planning, you may wish to transfer your property to your children. This can be a complex decision, with implications for:

Inheritance Tax
Care home fees
Future claims or disputes

Why Choose Porter Dodson?

Specialist legal support for all types of mortgage and remortgage transactions

Clear communication and practical advice throughout

Joined-up service if your remortgage involves a transfer of ownership

Local knowledge, national reach – with offices across Somerset, Dorset and Devon, and remote support available wherever you are

Porter Dodson Yeovil - Bryony and Rosie have been absolutely brilliant in helping my partner and me purchase our first home. They were always quick to respond, kept us informed throughout the process, and took the time to answer any questions we had. Buying a first home can be quite daunting, but their professionalism, knowledge, and support made the whole experience much smoother and less stressful. We are incredibly grateful for all their help and would highly recommend them to anyone looking to buy or sell a property.

Kate

Reena Ravel was recommended to me and I was delighted to follow up the recommendation. Reena, and her paralegal Beckie, kept me informed throughout. Documentation and the necessary checks were made in advance so that once an offer was accepted all was prepared. I asked for a prompt exchange/completion on selling a property and this was duly achieved with minimal involvement on my part.

Executors

I had a fantastic experience working with Jenny & Emma in Wellington during the purchase of my first property. From start to finish, they were incredibly supportive, professional, and always on hand to guide me through the process. As a first-time buyer, I expected things to feel quite overwhelming at times, but their clear communication and reassurance made the whole process feel seamless. I wouldn’t hesitate to work with them again in the future. I’d absolutely recommend them to anyone going through a property purchase.

Nikkie