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

We had to get a flat purchase in Exeter done very quickly. Nicola Hughes and her team at PD pulled out all the stops to get the purchase over the line in an amazing short time - 2 months from first viewing the flat to moving in! This was despite major complications with the Land Registry. Throughout the rather fraught (for us) process, Nicola was efficient, calm, reassuring and kept us well informed. Very highly recommended.

Steve

I have just sold a house and Porter Dodson were my choice of solicitors. I am so glad I chose this firm! Louise from the Poundbury branch was so helpful. All my enquiries were answered very promptly and clearly and I felt the whole sale was dealt with very professionally. I would not hesitate in recommending this company.

Ben

Used Porter Dodson for conveyancing on my first house and they were brilliant. All staff I came into contact with were supplying me with all the information and patience when I asked many questions. They provided me with regular updates, advice on process and best choices and gave clear guidance on competing the paperwork. Would absolutely recommend.

Daisy