Do the Building Society Association intend to launch a search tool with a view to to identify firms on the Earl Shilton BS conveyancing panel for example in Chilwell?

We are not aware of any intention on the part of the BSA to develop such a tool.

Are all Chilwell Conveyancing Quality Solicitors on the TSB conveyancing panel?

It is true that some lenders now make use of CQS as the kick off point for Panel approval such as HSBC and Santander. The Law Society’s CQS accreditation however gives no guarantee to lender panel acceptance. That being said,the CML have indicated that it is likely to become a pre-requisite for firms wishing to join their approved list of firms.

Can I be sure that the Chilwell conveyancing solicitor on the Lloyds panel is any good?

When it comes to conveyancing in Chilwell seeking recommendations is a sensible starting point. Before you go ahead, check if they offer a no sale no fee offer. Also, you often get what you pay for - a firm which quotes more, will often provide a better service than one which is cheap as chips. We would always advocate that you speak with the lawyer conducting your transaction.

I have decided to exercise my right to buy my property in Chilwell off the council. I have a mortgage agreed with HSBC. Conveyancing is new to me. Can I proceed without a solicitor easily? I think we can but we keep being told I should have one. Any advice?

It is not advisable to proceed with a house purchase without a solicitor. The council's solicitor are not acting for you. You need a solicitor for a number reasons. One of which is to verify what plans the Council have for repairs and refurbishment for the next five years. Many leaseholders have been stung for contributions of thousands of pounds. In any event, if you are getting a mortgage with HSBC, you will need to appoint a solicitor on the HSBC conveyancing panel.

Over the last few months I have been searching for a leasehold apartment up to £305k and found one near me in Chilwell I like with a park and transport links in the vicinity, however it only has 52 years on the lease. There is not much else in Chilwell suitable, so just wondered if I would be making a mistake buying a lease with such few years left?

If you need a mortgage the shortness of the lease will likely be problematic. Discount the offer by the anticipated lease extension will cost if not already taken into account. If the existing proprietor has owned the property for a minimum of 2 years you can ask them to start the process of the extension and pass it to you. An additional ninety years can be extended on to the existing lease term and have £0 ground rent by law. You should consult your conveyancing lawyer about this matter.

I am using a search engine for the words conveyancing in Chilwell it brings up many conveyancerslocally. With so much choice what is the best way to find the suitable conveyancer for purchase transaction?

The preferential way of finding the right conveyancer is via personal referral, so ask friends and relatives who have purchased a property in Chilwell or a local estate agent or mortgage broker. Costs for conveyancing in Chilwell differ, so it's sensible to request at least four fee calculations from different property lawyers. Make sure that you know that the fees are fixed.

I am hoping to put an offer on a small detached house that seems to tick a lot of boxes, at a reasonable figure which is making it more attractive. I have since found out that it's a leasehold rather than freehold. I would have thought that there are issues buying a leasehold house in Chilwell. Conveyancing lawyers have not yet been appointed. Will they explain the issues?

The majority of houses in Chilwell are freehold and not leasehold. This is one of the situations where having a local solicitor who is familiar with the area who can help the conveyancing process. It is clear that you are purchasing in Chilwell so you should seriously consider looking for a Chilwell conveyancing practitioner and be sure that they are used to transacting on leasehold houses. As a matter of priority you will need to check the number of years remaining. Being a lessee you will not be entirely free to do whatever you want to the property. The lease comes with conditions such as requiring the landlord’sconsent to conduct alterations. It may be necessary to pay a maintenance charge towards the upkeep of the communal areas where the property is part of an estate. Your lawyer will report to you on the legal implications.

Chilwell Leasehold Conveyancing - Sample of Queries before Purchasing

What restrictions exist in the Chilwell Lease? Please note if it is less than eighty years it will have adverse implications on the marketability of the apartment. Check with your mortgage company that they are content with remaining years on the lease. A short lease means that you will almost definitely need a lease extension at some point and it is worth finding out what this would cost. For most Chilwelllease extensions you will be required to have owned the premises for a couple of years before you are entitled to exercise a lease extension. What is the annual maintenance fee and ground rent?