Here is a clear, simple explanation of Transfer of Equity in property, including what it means, when it happens, costs, legal steps, and examples.

What Is “Transfer of Equity”?

Transfer of Equity means adding or removing someone from the ownership (title) of a property without selling the whole property.

It changes who owns how much of the home but does not usually involve a full sale.

✔ You can transfer the whole share
✔ Or only part of your share (e.g., transferring 50%)

Common Situations Where Transfer of Equity Happens

1. Marriage / Relationship
2. Adding a spouse/partner to the property title.
3. Separation / Divorce
4. Removing a partner from the ownership.
5. Family Transfers
6. Parents adding children to the title
7. Transferring part of a home for inheritance planning
8. Buying out a Co-Owner
9. One owner pays another to take full ownership.
10. Tax or Asset Planning
11. Moving shares to reduce tax liability (consult a tax professional).

Who Must Be Involved?

✓ A conveyancing solicitor

Handles the legal work.

✓ Your mortgage lender

If there is a mortgage, the bank must approve the transfer.

• If someone is being added → they must pass affordability checks.
• If someone is being removed → the remaining owner must qualify for the mortgage alone.

If the lender refuses, you may need to remortgage.

Basic Steps of a Transfer of Equity

1. Instruct a solicitor
2. Apply for lender consent (if there’s a mortgage)
3. Solicitor prepares transfer deed (TR1 form)
4. Sign the deed
5. Pay Stamp Duty (if required)
6. Land Registry updates the ownership record

Costs Involved

1. Solicitor / Conveyancing Fees

Typical range: $300 – $1,000+, depending on complexity.

2. Mortgage Fees (if applicable)

• Lender’s administration fee
• Remortgage charges (if refinancing)

3. Stamp Duty / Taxes

You may owe stamp duty only if money or mortgage debt is being transferred.

Example:
If your partner takes on half the mortgage, that half counts as “consideration.”
Depending on your country’s tax rules, this can trigger stamp duty.

4. Land Registry Fee

Usually small, based on property value.

Examples (Easy to Understand)

Example 1: Adding Your Spouse

House value: $300,000
Mortgage: $200,000
You add your spouse to the title. No money exchanged → likely no stamp duty.

Example 2: Divorce – One Buys Out the Other

Two owners each own 50%.
One partner buys the other’s 50% share.
Stamp duty may apply if the buying partner takes on part of the mortgage.

Example 3: Parent Adding a Child

Parent adds child to the title for inheritance planning.
If no money changes hands → often no stamp duty, but tax implications exist.