We are buying our first property. Our solicitor has calledto ask if we want to order supplemental conveyancing searches. We are really unsure what's needed for conveyancing in Whaley Bridge

The scope of Whaley Bridge conveyancing searches depends primarily on the premises, the location, the probability of any of these risks, your familiarity of the locality and risks, your general attitude to risk. What matters is that you adequately appreciate what information the searches could give you. You may then decide if you personally think you need that information. Should you be in doubt, ask the conveyancing practitioner to recommend.

Having spent time reading moneysavingexpert.com for an online lawyer in Whaley Bridge, most advise that I must instruct a CQS kitemarked lawyer. Can you explain what CQS is?

The Law Society's Conveyancing Quality Scheme is the recognised kitemark for legal experts in home moving process, trusted by some of the UK's biggest mortgage companies. In 2011-12 the Conveyancing Quality Scheme was officially recognised by the Building Societies Association (BSA). CQS is not a scheme offered by the Council of Licensed Conveyancing. Whaley Bridge is one of the numerous areas of the UK where there are CQS lawyers.

I opted to have a survey completed on a house in Whaley Bridge ahead of retaining lawyers. I have been informed that there is a flying freehold element to the house. The surveyor advised that some banks may not issue a mortgage on this type of property.

It depends who your proposed lender is. Lloyds has different requirements for example to Nationwide. Should you wish to call us we can check with the appropriate bank. If you lender is happy to lend one our lawyers can assist as they are accustomed to dealing with flying freeholds in Whaley Bridge. Conveyancing can be more complicated and therefore you should check with your conveyancing solicitor in Whaley Bridge to see if the conveyancing will be more expensive.

Should I be concerned by third parties that I am dealing with are suggesting a nationwide conveyancing firm as opposed to a High Street Whaley Bridge conveyancing company?

As is the case with many service providers, often referrals from relatives can be extremely useful or valuable. But there are lots of players in a conveyancing deal; estate agents, financial adviser and banks might all recommend lawyers to instruct. On occasion these lawyers might be known to one of the organisations as being good in their field, but occasionally there exists a commercial relationship behind the endorsement. You are at liberty to select your preferred lawyer. You need to be aware that most banks specify a panel list of solicitors you must use for the mortgage aspect of your home move.

I am hoping to put an offer on a small detached house that appears to meet my requirements, at a great figure which is making it all the more appealing. I have subsequently discovered that the title is leasehold rather than freehold. I would have thought that there are issues buying a leasehold house in Whaley Bridge. Conveyancing solicitors have not yet been instructed. Will my lawyers set out the risks of buying a leasehold house in Whaley Bridge ?

Most houses in Whaley Bridge are freehold rather than leasehold. In this scenario it’s worth having a local solicitor who is familiar with the area who can help the conveyancing process. We note that you are purchasing in Whaley Bridge so you should seriously consider shopping around for a Whaley Bridge conveyancing solicitor and check that they have experience in dealing with leasehold houses. As a matter of priority you will need to check the number of years remaining. As a lessee you will not be at liberty to do whatever you want with the house. The lease comes with conditions for example obtaining the landlord’spermission to carry out changes to the property. You may also be required to pay a maintenance charge towards the upkeep of the communal areas where the property is located on an estate. Your solicitor will advise you fully on all the issues.

Whaley Bridge Conveyancing for Leasehold Flats - Sample of Questions you should consider Prior to Purchasing

What is the annual service fee and ground rent? How many of the leaseholders are in arrears for their service charge payments? Is the freehold owned collectively by the tenants?