Home Information Pack (HIP)...

If you're buying or selling a home, make sure you see the 'Home Information Pack' information below.

Since 14 December 2007 every house put on the market, whatever size, must have a Home Information Pack. It brings together valuable information at the start of the process - such as a sale statement, local searches and evidence of title - which could save you money, time and stress. The Pack also includes an Energy Performance Certificate that contains advice on how to cut CO2 emissions and fuel bills.

DIY service for the HIP

You don't need an estate agent to complete a HIP. By completing the HIP yourself means that you tend not to get tide in to using only one estate agent. Estate agents will offer you incentives to complete the HIP pack through them however a clause will be in place. For example the HIP costs £300 - £350, where an estate agent can reduce this cost or even offer it for free, the clause is that you have to stay exclusive to this estate agent. Moving elsewhere would mean paying and completing a brand new HIP.

Make sure your estate agent shows you the Pack.

HIPs provide key information needed by buyers and sellers at the very start of the home-buying process, making transactions more efficient and less likely to fall through between offer and exchange. HIP documents give consumers a clear, up front picture of what they are buying and selling.

Buyers and Sellers FAQ's

• What is the home information pack
• Why was the HIP's introduced
• What about a survey
• When does the pack need completing
• How long does it stay valid for
• What is compulsory and optional

For answers on questions like this and much more including a Home Information Pack (HIP) guide for both sellers and buyers please visit www.homeinformationpacks.gov.uk