Last June we completed a house move in Calcot. We have noticed several issues with the property which we believe were missed in the conveyancing searches. What action can we take? Can you clarify the nature of searches that should have been conducted as part of conveyancing in Calcot?

It is not clear from the question as to the nature of the problems and if they are relate to conveyancing in Calcot. Conveyancing searches and investigations initiated as part of the legal transfer of property are designed to help avoid problems. As part of the legal transfer of property, a seller answers a document known as a Seller’s Property Information Form. If the information turns out to be incorrect, you could possibly take legal action against the owner for any losses that you have suffered. The survey should have identified any problems with the structure of the property. Assuming a detailed survey was carried out and the issues were not identified, you may have a claim against the surveyor. However, if you did not have a full survey, you may be responsible for fixing any defects that have now been noted. We would always encourage buyers to take every possible step to ensure they are completely aware of the condition of a property before purchase regardless of whether they are buying in Calcot.

As a FTB what is the most important number one tip you can impart about purchase conveyancing in Calcot?

You may not hear this from too many lawyers but conveyancing in Calcot and elsewhere in Berkshire is often a confrontational experience. In other words, when it comes to conveyancing there is lots of room for confrontation between you and other parties involved in the legal transfer of property. E.g., the seller, property agent and even potentially the mortgage company. Selecting a solicitor for your conveyancing in Calcot should not be taken lightly as your conveyancer is your adviser, and is the ONLY party in the transaction whose role it is to act in your legal interests and to protect you.

Every so often a third party with a vested interest may try and sway you that you should follow their advice. For instance, the estate agent may claim to be assisting by claiming that your conveyancer is wrong. Or your mortgage broker may try to convince you to do take action that is contrary to your conveyancers guidance. You should always trust your lawyer above all other parties in the home moving process.

A relative suggested that where I am purchasing in Calcot I should carry out a Neighbourhood, Planning and Local Amenity Search. What does it cover?

This is a search is occasionally quoted for as part of the standard Calcot conveyancing searches. It is not a small document of more than thirty pages, listing and setting out important information about Calcot around the property and the people living there. It incorporates an Aerial Photograph, Planning Applications, Land Use, Mobile Phone Masts, Rights of Way, the local Housing Market, Council Tax Banding, the demographics of People living in the area, the dominant type of Housing, the Average Property Price, Crime details, Local Education with plans and statistics, Local Amenities and other useful information regarding Calcot.

About to purchase a new build apartment in Calcot. Conveyancing is daunting at the best of times but I have never purchased a new build flat before. What sort of enquires would be asked in new build conveyancing.

Set out below are examples of a few leasehold new build enquiries that you can expect your new-build leasehold conveyancing in Calcot

Please confirm the Lease plans are surveyor prepared. If there are lifts in the building, please confirm that the owners of flats on the ground and basement floors will not be required to contribute towards the cost of maintenance and renewal. The Vendor must covenant to keep unsold units in good repair until long leases are granted therefore. Please supply a car parking plan. Will the freehold then be transferred for a nominal consideration (not exceeding £100) to the Management Company?

I opted to have a survey carried out on a property in Calcot before retaining lawyers. I have been told that there is a flying freehold aspect to the house. My surveyor has said that some mortgage companies tend not grant a mortgage on this type of premises.

It varies from the lender to lender. Santander 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 help as they are used to dealing with flying freeholds in Calcot. Conveyancing will be smoother if you use a solicitor in Calcot especially if they are accustomed to such properties in Calcot.