I am need of leasehold conveyancing for a flat in a relatively new development (five years old) in Lechlade. Almost all the properties are already occupied. Do I need carry out the neighbourhood searches for my conveyancing in Lechlade?

Conveyancing Searches are a vital link in the Lechlade conveyancing process. There are a large number of search providers delivering Lechlade conveyancing searches, as well direct from the local authority. These are generally termed personal search providers and they produce, not surprisingly, personal searches. Nevertheless, all Local Authority Search conveyancing products have one thing in common - they must secure their information from the local authority.

I own a freehold premises in Lechlade but still invoiced for rent, why is this and what is this?

It is rare for properties in Lechlade and has limited impact for conveyancing in Lechlade but some freehold properties in England (particularly common in North West England) pay an annual sum known as a Chief Rent or a Rentcharge to a third party who has no other legal interest in the land.

Rentcharge payments are usually between £2.00 and £5.00 per year. Rentcharges have existed for hundreds of years, but the Rent Charge Act 1977 barred the generation of fresh rentcharges from 1977 onwards.

Old rentcharges can now be extinguished by making a one off payment under the Act. Any rentcharges that are still in existence after 2037 will be extinguished.

Is it necessary during the course of the conveyancing process to pop into the offices of the solicitor to execute the legal charge? If so, I will appoint a lawyer who conducts conveyancing in Lechlade so that I can attend their offices if necessary.

Whereas this was necessary 15 years ago, almost all lenders no longer oblige their conveyancing panel solicitor to witness the mortgagors signature. It will still be necessary for you to hand over ID documents and there are still distinct benefits to choosing a local practitioner, in your situation a conveyancing solicitor in Lechlade.

Over the last few months I have been searching for a leasehold apartment up to £235,500 and identified one round the corner in Lechlade I like with open areas and station in the vicinity, the downside is that it only has 52 years on the lease. I can't really find anything else in Lechlade in this price bracket, so just wondered if I would be making a grave error buying a short lease?

If you require a mortgage that many years will be a potential deal breaker. Reduce the offer by the amount the lease extension will cost if it has not already been discounted. If the existing proprietor has owned the premises for a minimum of twenty four months you could request that they commence the lease extension formalities and pass it to you. You can add 90 years to the existing lease term and have £0 ground rent by law. You should consult your conveyancing lawyer concerning this matter.

Should I be concerned about brokers that I am dealing with are recommending an internet conveyancing firm rather than a local Lechlade conveyancing company?

As is the case with lots of service providers, often input from family and friends can be extremely useful or valuable. Yet there are numerous parties with a vested interest in a conveyancing deal; estate agents, financial adviser and lenders might all suggest conveyancers to instruct. Sometimes the lawyers might be known to one of the organisations as one of the best in their field, but occasionally there is an underlying financial incentive behind the recommendation. You are free to choose your preferred lawyer. You need to be aware that some banks specify a panel list of solicitors you have to use for the lender aspect of your home move.