Residential Property

Deed of Trust

What is a Deed of Trust?

A Deed of Trust or Declaration of Trust is a legally binding document drawn up by a Solicitor stating the division of ownership of a property and what should happen with the money in the future.

If you are buying a property with someone it will be in your best interest to get a Deed of Trust to protect the money you invested in the property.

During the process of buying a property as a joint owner, we will ask you what position you wish to hold regarding the beneficial interests. 

Joint Tenants

Joint ownership is a common way that between two and four people can own a property together. All co-owners are legally considered one owner, and have equal rights to the property.

Tenants in Common

Typically, tenants in common are two or more people who purchase a property together. However, they own separate shares in the property, which are not necessarily equal.

To avoid a dispute at a later date, when you buy a house or flat jointly you should clarify who owns what, since each person contributes a different amount. This is when a deed of Trust is essential.

Typically, a Declaration of Trust would include one or more of the following:

  •  Confirmation of the initial deposits contributed by both parties.  
  •  The percentage of the equity to be repaid to each party if the property is sold  
  •  A confirmation of the parties’ respective contributions to the mortgage, maintenance of the property, and any other bills, such as utilities or council taxes
  • If the property is a buy to let, the details confirming to whom the rental income will be paid 
  • An unlisted third party, such as a relative, who has invested money and still wants to protect their investment

We are accredited by Lexcel and CQS (Conveyancing Quality Scheme) and SRA regulated, so you know you’re in safe hands. 

Our fixed fee service makes sure that the legal fee you are quoted for your Deed of Trust is exactly what you pay, with no hidden costs.

If you would like further information about Deeds of Trust then contact us and we will be happy to help.

Testimonials

What our clients say...

Jessica Blacow from Laker Legal Solicitors Lancaster pulled out every stop truly amazing lady / firm nothing was to much trouble I honestly felt like they was my friends not just a firm that wanted your money but a solicitor firm that cared with compassion I will use Laker Legal Solicitors Lancaster for all my needs in the future.

Mr T, Lancaster

I used the services of Jess and the team at Laker Legal as a first time buyer looking for properties to buy, near and around Bath.

Jess was fantastic, in her communication during the process as well as her knowledge and ability during the conveyancing process. She helped me make informed decisions and ultimately find and purchase a wonderful home near Bath. Jess is adept at spotting potential issues during a purchase that I believe others may not.

She clearly excels at her craft and you will be in safe hands should you use her services too.

Bath.

I am very pleased with Laker Legal firm, my Solicitor John Hirst, was extremely helpful throughout the drawing of my prenuptial agreement. A very professional and knowledgeable approach yet warm,and friendly enough to feel comfortable with in a situation that can be quite uncanny to discuss or uneasy as per say. Thankyou again!

Mrs V – London

I can highly recommend John Hirst at Laker Legal solicitors in Lancaster. He was superb from start to finish dealing with a very complex child arrangements case for me. A really decent guy and an excellent family law solicitor who genuinely cares about his clients. John was fully up to speed with my case at all times and we got the outcome we wanted.

Mr B, Kendal

A big ‘thank you’ Richard from Steve and myself. Your time and attention you gave to both of us was remarkable. I’ve had dealings with many solicitors over the years, but have never received this level of service as you gave.

Mrs R – West Malling, Kent

Thank you for all your help and support over the last 12 months. You and the team at Laker Legal have been fantastic.
Sarah was lovely and really supportive yesterday.

Ms. W of Leyland

A devastating event brought us to call on Laker Legal. We were put in touch with Mr John Hirst, and from the first moment we spoke to him we knew everything was going to be ok. Mr John Hirst, was always on the end of the Phone or Email, Kept in touch with us 100% of the time, and the support we received took so much pain off our family. All i can say is Thank you so much for everything you did for us.

Ms P - Maidstone

Best conveyancing experience ever. After two supposedly good law firms failed to even do the basics post instruction, for nearly 8 weeks, Jess at Laker Legal took on the difficult challenge of overseeing my purchase and completion in record time. Always proactive, very knowledgeable of her subject and extremely good communicator. I never had to chase the firm for anything. They always answered my calls efficiently. I can't praise them enough. What a wonderful experience.

I recommend Jess and would be very happy to use her again in the future.

Mrs A, Lancaster.

Thank you so much Richard, you have been so kind and patient with me when I have been at about the lowest point of my life after losing my wife, I can never thank you enough. I will also let my family know my wishes that Laker Legal Solicitors deal with my estate when that time comes.

Mr Y, Addington, Kent.

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