I am considering applying for a UBS mortgage for purchase of a new build (under development) in Cathays with 65 per cent LTV. Is it compulsory to choose a solicitor on the conveyancing panel for UBS ?

There is nothing to stop you using your solicitor, but UBS will insist on their interests being represented by a firm on their conveyancing panel. There is much more potential for delays and confusion with two solicitors involved, and it will undoubtedly be more expensive too.

I have been told that property searches are the primary cause of stalling in Cathays house deals. Is this right?

The Council of Property Search Organisations (CoPSO) released conclusions of research by MoveWithUs that conveyancing searches do not figure within the top 10 causes of delays in the conveyancing process. Searches are not likely to feature in any slowing down conveyancing in Cathays.

I am buying a new build apartment in Cathays. Conveyancing is necessary evil 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.

Here is a sample of a selection of leasehold new build questions that you may expect your new-build leasehold conveyancing in Cathays

Please confirm the Lease plans are architect prepared. The Vendor must covenant to keep unoccupied units in good repair until long leases are granted therefore. 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. There must be mutual enforceability of lessee’s covenants.

Due to the encouragement of my in-laws I had a survey completed on a property in Cathays in advance of instructing solicitors. I have been informed that there is a flying freehold overhang to the house. The surveyor has said that some mortgage companies may not issue a mortgage on such a premises.

It varies from the lender to lender. Santander has different instructions from Halifax. Should you wish to telephone us we can check with the appropriate mortgage company. If you lender is happy to lend one our lawyers can help as they are accustomed to dealing with flying freeholds in Cathays. Conveyancing will be smoother if you use a solicitor in Cathays especially if they regularly deal with such properties in Cathays.

I am looking into buying my first house which is in Cathays and I am already nervous. I couldn't find anything specific about Cathays. Conveyancing will be needed in due course but do you know about the Cathays area? or perhaps some other tips you can share?

Rather than looking online forget looking online you should go and have a look at Cathays. In the meantime here are some basic statistics that we found