I am getting closer to an exchange on a flat in Selly Oak and my parents have sent the 10% deposit to my solicitor. I am now informed that as the deposit has been sent from someone other than me my lawyer needs to make a notification to my bank. 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 mortgage company regarding my parents' contribution when I applied for the mortgage, so is it really appropriate for him to raise this?

The solicitor 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 funds. Your solicitor can only disclose this to your mortgage company if you agree, failing which, your lawyer must cease to continue acting.

My wife and I purchased a terraced Victorian house in Selly Oak. Conveyancing solicitor acted for me and Lloyds TSB Bank. I happened to do a free search for it on the Land Registry database and there are two entries: the first freehold, another for leasehold with the exact same property. If a house is not a freehold shouldn't I have been informed?

You need to assess the Freehold register you have again and check the Charges Register as there may be mention of a lease. The best way to be sure that you are also the registered proprietor of the leasehold and freehold title as well is to check (£3). It is not completely unheard of in Selly Oak and other locations in the country and poses no real issues for owners other than when they mortgage they have to account for both freehold and leasehold interests when dealing with purchasers. You can also enquire as to the position with the conveyancing lawyer who conducted the conveyancing.

How do I use the search app to find a conveyancing lawyer in Selly Oak on the approved list for my lender?

First pick a mortgage company such as Yorkshire Building Society, Leeds Building Society or Godiva Mortgages Ltd then choose your preferred area for instance Selly Oak. Conveyancing firms in Selly Oak and further afield should be shown.

My brother has urged me to instruct his conveyancing solicitors in Selly Oak. Do I follow his recommendation?

No doubt it’s preferable to select a conveyancing lawyer is to get referrals from friends or relatives who have used the solicitor you're are thinking of instructing.

I am considering appointing a web based conveyancing practitioner rather than a Selly Oak conveyancing practice. Should I ‘stay local’?

Various benefits exist in having the opportunity to visit a local Selly Oak conveyancing solicitor such as

• signing documents same day
• getting face-to-face explanations of things that you need help with
• the ability to complain if things are not going as expected

When checking quotes, look carefully for hidden extras. The majority decent Selly Oak high street solicitors give an all-inclusive price. Many online companies seem to offer low cost prices, but have hidden 'extras' in the in the terms and conditions.