Conveyancing
Common Conveyancing Questions Answered
How do I know who is best to act for me?
There is no doubt that personal recommendation by a family member or friend is a good start. Indeed over 95 % of our clients say, when surveyed that they would recommend us or use us again. However you should also ensure that your solicitor or conveyancer can show that they meet recognised levels of service and expertise. The Law Society’s Conveyancing Quality Scheme (CQS) is the recognised quality mark for legal experts in buying or selling property, trusted by some of the UK’s biggest lenders.
CQS provides a recognised quality standard for residential conveyancing practices. Hart Reade are part of this scheme and have achieved this by the firm’s adherence to good practice management standards and adherence to prudent and efficient conveyancing procedures through the scheme protocol.
What do we need to know if we are buying in joint names?
Most married couples purchase as joint tenants which mean that upon the death of one party, their share automatically passes to the surviving partner.
Alternatively, tenants in common means the property is split into half shares and upon the death of one party their share will be transferred in accordance with their will and not automatically passed onto the other party.
If one party is contributing a larger amount into the property it is advised that a Declaration of Trust should be created which defines the respective shares and protects each party’s interests.
How long does the process take?
Each case is different and will depend on a number of factors, like how long the chain is, how many people need mortgage offers down to even when people have booked holidays!!
As a guide, transactions take on average around 6-8 weeks from when your offer is accepted to when you get the keys to your new home.
What can I do to speed the process along?
The biggest hold up is often waiting for confirmation of your mortgage offer, so have your finances in place as early as you can.
Instruct your solicitor as soon as possible, get quotes while you are looking at properties. This way, your solicitor can open a file for you and be ready to go as soon as you have found your property.
For more information and advice on conveyancing please contact us.