HIPs are a relatively new part of the selling process. It is now a legal requirement to order a Home Information Pack (HIP) before you are able to market your property. Part of the purpose of HIPs is to speed up the selling process as buyers should learn more about the property before they make an offer.

Where do you get one?

HIPs are legal documents and often prepared by your property solicitor. It makes sense to get a HIP and conveyancing quote from the same company for price but also so sale information can be more easily managed.

You can compare HIP and property solicitor quotes online with moveme.com >

What do you do with it?

Once you've chosen a company, ask them if they can add any property information and 'fixtures and fittings' forms to the pack. Also ask for as much of the pack to be completed as possible - this will save time preparing a contract for sale when you get an offer. Your buyer’s solicitor may accept the searches and information, potentially saving them money and making your property more appealing.

Your estate agent should ask you for the HIP for any serious buyers to read.

Beware if you think you can get away without one- there are fines in place for people attempting to sell a property without a HIP!

Find out more about selling:

Working with estate agents >

Key legal steps to selling >

Preparing your home for sale >