A one-page RED / ORANGE / GREEN guide you can send any first-home buyer.
I made you something you can use this week.
A one-page cheat sheet that sorts most interests commonly found on a record of title into three colours: RED / ORANGE / GREEN.
Your buyer reads it in 30 seconds and knows which properties need a closer look before they make an offer.
Every title lists a pile of registered interests.
Most are harmless.
A few can cause major issues.
They all look the same sitting in a list.
Often you will not have a copy of the interest until your lawyer orders a copy, so a cheat sheet can help a buyer understand any risks before they make an offer.
This guide is general information only.
It is not legal advice.
Talk to a lawyer before making any offer.
ROUTINE & LOW-RISK
GREEN
Proceed ✓
→ Fee simple
Standard ownership — the cleanest title you can get.
→ Utility easements
Power, water, telecom — expected and harmless.
→ A right of way that benefits you
You gain access over another property — not a burden.
→ The seller's mortgage
Cleared at settlement. Nothing to worry about.
COMMON — BUT READ CAREFULLY
ORANGE
Review Before You Commit ⚠️
The terms vary, and some hide conditions that bite.
Cross-lease or unit title
Shared ownership structures with rules that vary widely.
Covenants limiting what you can build
Could block your renovation plans entirely.
Consent notices
From when the land was subdivided — conditions may still apply.
Encumbrances
Obligations registered against the land (like a second mortgage).
Often survives a change in ownership.
Right of way for a neighbour
They cross your land. Know exactly where and when.
DO NOT PROCEED
RED
Stop Until Sorted 🛑
Caveat
Someone else is claiming an interest in the property.
Statutory land charge or charging order
A debt registered directly against the land.
Property (Relationships) Act notice
A relationship property claim — must be resolved first.
Bankruptcy notation
The seller's financial situation is legally unresolved.
Save this for your next open home.
The colour is just the start. What's written inside each interest is what actually matters.
Know before you sign
A title search takes minutes. A legal problem costs time and money.
Get it reviewed
HouseMe Legal checks every interest so nothing slips through.
✔ Three colours: green = proceed, orange = read it properly, red = stop.
✔ Send it the day your client starts looking at properties.
✔ Orange or red? Get a lawyer on it before they submit an offer.
✔ Let me know if you would like a personalised and branded traffic light cheat sheet.
