My fiance and I are purchasing a newly converted apartment in Esher and Claygate with a residential mortgage from Halifax.We like our Esher and Claygate conveyancing lawyer but Halifax advised that he's not on their "panel". we are left little option but to use a Halifax panel lawyer or keep our high street solicitor and pay for a Halifax panel lawyer to act for them. This seems very unfair; Can we not simply insist that Halifax use our lawyer?
No, not really. The mortgage issued to you contains various provisions, a common one being that lawyers will be on the Halifax solicitor panel. Until recently, most lenders had large numbers of solicitors on their panels: a borrower could choose one for themselves, as long as it was on the lender's panel. The lender would then simply instruct the borrower's lawyers to act for the lender, too. You can use your lender's panel lawyers or you could borrow from another lender which does not restrict your choice. Another option that might be available is for your solicitors to apply to be on the conveyancing panel for Halifax
What does a local search tell me regarding the property we're buying in Esher and Claygate?
Esher and Claygate conveyancing often starts with the ordering local authority searches directly from your local Authority or via a personal search organisations for example PSG The local search is essential in every Esher and Claygate conveyancing purchase; as long as you wish to avoid any unpleasant surprises after you move into your new home. The search will provide data on, amongst other things, details on planning applications applicable to the premises (whether granted or refused), building control history, any enforcement action, restrictions on permitted development, nearby road schemes, contaminated land and radon gas; in all a total of thirteen subject sections.
How does conveyancing in Esher and Claygate differ for newly converted properties?
Most buyers of new build premises in Esher and Claygate approach us having been asked by the seller to exchange contracts and commit to the purchase even before the property is built. This is because house builders in Esher and Claygate tend to buy the real estate, plan the estate and want to get the plots sold off as they are building the properties. Buyers, therefore, will have to exchange contracts without actually seeing the house they are buying. To reduce the chances of losing the property, buyers should instruct conveyancing solicitors as soon as the property is reserved and mortgage applications should be submitted quickly. Due to the fact that it could be several months and even years between exchange of contracts and completion, the mortgage offer may need to be extended. It would be wise to use a lawyer who specialises in new build conveyancing especially if they are accustomed to new build conveyancing in Esher and Claygate or who has acted in the same development.
I decided to have a survey done on a property in Esher and Claygate in advance of instructing lawyers. I have been advised that there is a flying freehold aspect to the house. The surveyor advised that some lenders may refuse to give a loan on such a property.
It varies from the lender to lender. Lloyds has different instructions from Birmingham Midshires. Should you wish to telephone us we can check via the appropriate lender. If you lender is happy to lend one our lawyers can assist as they are accustomed to dealing with flying freeholds in Esher and Claygate. Conveyancing may be slightly more expensive based on your lender's requirements.
How do I find the right lawyer for my conveyancing in Esher and Claygate ?
First ask your friends and family who they would recommend. Option 2 is to search the web for conveyancing in Esher and Claygate. Call a couple or more firms from the list and ask them to email you their conveyancing charges and discuss your needs with the solicitor who will handle your conveyancing before you make your decision. Third is to use our search tool to assist you in finding the right solicitors taking into account your unique requirements including location,speed, complexity and who the proposed lender is.Avoid the trap of appointing lowest cost conveyancing solicitors in Esher and Claygate