We are getting closer to an exchange on a house in Essex and my mum and dad have sent the exchange deposit to my lawyer. I am now advised that as the deposit has been received from someone other than me my conveyancer needs to disclose this to my mortgage company. I am advised that, in also acting for the lender he must inform them that the balance of the purchase price is not just from me. I informed the bank about my parents' contribution when I applied for the mortgage, so is it really appropriate for this now to delay the deal?

The conveyancer is obliged to clarify with mortgage company to make sure that they know that the balance of the purchase price is not from your own resources. Your solicitor can only disclose this to your bank if you agree, failing which, your lawyer must cease to continue acting.

Do lenders provide you with an approved list of Essex conveyancing solicitors? How do you know who is on the Nationwide conveyancing panel?

Essex conveyancing firms themselves provide us confirmation that they are on the Nationwide conveyancing panel as opposed to being supplied with a list from Nationwide directly.

Having invested time reviewing moneysavingexpert.com for an affordable lawyer in Essex, many say that I should use a CQS assured lawyer. Can you explain what CQS is?

The Conveyancing Quality Scheme (CQS) provides a kitemark for residential conveyancing practices issued by the Law Society. Membership achievement establishes a level of credibility for member firms with stakeholders (regulators, lenders, insurers and consumers) based upon: * the integrity of the senior responsible officer and other key conveyancing staff * the firm's adherence to good practice management standards * adherence to prudent and efficient conveyancing processes via the scheme protocol the standard includes many companies who handle conveyancing in Essex.

A relative recommended that where I am purchasing in Essex I should ask my conveyancer to execute a Neighbourhood, Planning and Local Amenity Search. What does it cover?

This is a search is occasionally quoted for as part of the standard Essex conveyancing searches. It is not a small report of more than thirty pages, listing and detailing significant information about Essex around the property and the people living there. It includes an Aerial Photograph, Planning Applications, Land Use, Mobile Phone Masts, Rights of Way, the Essex Housing Market, Council Tax Banding, the demographics of People living in the area, the dominant type of Housing, the Average Property Price, Crime details, Essex Education with maps and statistics, Local Amenities and other useful data concerning Essex.

I am buying a new build flat in Essex. Conveyancing is a frightening process 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 few leasehold new build questions that you should expect your new-build leasehold conveyancing in Essex

Forfeiture - bankruptcy or liquidation must not apply under this provision. The Vendor must covenant to keep unoccupied units in good repair until long leases are granted therefore. Will the freehold then be transferred for a nominal consideration (not exceeding £100) to the Management Company? The Lease must contain a provision on behalf of the Vendor to pay the service charges in respect of unoccupied units in order to ensure that all services can be provided. Please supply a car parking plan.