Is the fact that my conveyancer in Hastings is not listed on my mortgage company's conveyancing panel that there is a problem with the quality of her work?
It would not be wise to jump to that conclusion. There are plenty of reasonable explanations. A recent report by the solicitors regulator revealed that over three quarters of law firms surveyed had been removed from at least one lender panel. The top 5 reasons are as follows: (1) lack of transactions (2) the solicitor is a sole practitioner (3) as part of the HSBC panel reduction (4) regulatory contact by SRA (5) accidental removal. If you are concerned you should contact the Hastings conveyancing practice and ask them why they are no longer on the approved list for your lender.
I am considering applying for a Leeds Building Society mortgage for purchase of a newly converted (under development) in Hastings with 60% LTV. Is it compulsory to choose a solicitor on the conveyancing panel for Leeds Building Society ?
In theory, you could use a solicitor that is not on the Leeds Building Society conveyancing panel, but Leeds Building Society would require one of their panel solicitors to be instructed to act in their interests, and you'd have to pay for this - so most people instruct a panel solicitor. It's also easier, as otherwise you'd have to deal with two solicitors for the same conveyancing matter.
We are purchasing a 3 bedroom semi in Hastings. Our aim is to carry out a loft conversion at the property.Will the conveyancing process include checks to see if these works are prohibited?
Your conveyancer should review the registered title as conveyancing in Hastings will sometimes reveal restrictions in the title deeds which restrict categories of alterations or need the consent of a 3rd party. Many extensions need local authority planning consent and approval in compliance with building regulations. Some areas are designated conservation areas and special planning restrictions apply which frequently prevent or affect extensions. It would be wise to check these issues with a surveyor ahead of any purchase.
Can you point me to a directory of UBS panel conveyancers in Hastings on the Building Society Association’s Website?
No. There is no such tool on the Council of Mortgage Lenders or Building Society Association websites. Very few banks make their panel listings visible online. Where you are in need of a Hastings lawyer on the UBS please make the most of our facility.
How can we tell if a Hastings conveyancing solicitor on the Leeds Building Society panel is any good?
When it comes to conveyancing in Hastings obtaining recommendations is a good start. 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 advertising the lowest fees. We would always advocate that you speak with the lawyer carrying out your transaction.
I'm purchasing a new build house in Hastings benefiting from help to buy. The sellers would not reduce the amount so I negotiated five thousand pounds worth of additionals instead. The estate agent told me not inform my lawyer about this extras as it would affect my loan with National Westminster Bank. Should I keep quiet?.
All lenders require a Disclosure of Incentives Form from the builder of any new build, converted or renovated property, It is available online from the Lenders’ Handbook page on the CML website. CML form is completed and handed to the lender's surveyor when the inspection is done.
Lenders have different policies on incentives. Some accept none at all, cash or physical, while others will accept cash incentives up to 5%.
Hard to understand why the representative of a builder would be suggesting you withold information from a solicitor when all this will be clearly visible on forms the builder has to supply to its solicitor, the buyer's solicitor and the surveyor.
In my capacity as executor for the estate of my father I am disposing of a house in Swansea but live in Hastings. My solicitor (who is 260 miles awayneeds me to execute a stat dec ahead of completion. Could you suggest a conveyancing lawyer in Hastings who can attest this legal document for me?
strictly speaking you are unlikely to be required to have the documents witnessed by a conveyancing solicitor. Normally or notary public or solicitor will suffice regardless of whether they are Hastings based