I am considering applying for a mortgage for purchase of a newly converted (under development) in Leatherhead with 70% loan to value. Is it compulsory to choose a solicitor on the conveyancing panel for ?

There is nothing to stop you using your solicitor, but will insist on their interests being represented by a firm on their conveyancing panel. There is greater potential for delays and confusion with an additional lawyer added to the mix, and it will undoubtedly be more expensive too.

What can a local search inform me concerning the house I am purchasing in Leatherhead?

Leatherhead conveyancing often commences with the ordering local authority searches directly from your local Authority or via a personal search company such as Onsearch The local search is essential in every Leatherhead conveyancing purchase; as long as you wish to avoid any nasty once you have moved into your property. The search should reveal information on, amongst other things, details on planning applications applicable to the property (whether granted or refused), building control history, any enforcement action, restrictions on permitted development, nearby road schemes, contaminated land and radon gas; in all a total of thirteen topic sections.

five months have elapsed since my purchase conveyancing in Leatherhead concluded. I have checked the Land Registry website which shows that I paid £150,000 when infact I paid £160,000. Why the discrepancy?

The price paid figure is taken from the application to register the purchase. It is the figure included in the Transfer (the legal deed which transfers the residence from one person to the other) and referred to as the 'consideration' or purchase price. You can report an error in the price paid figure using the LR online form. In most cases errors result from typos so at first glance the figure. Do report it so they can double check and advise.

I was advised by a couple of local property agents in Leatherhead to locate a solicitor on your site. Is there a financial upside for Estate Agents to promote your site ahead of alternative conveyancing organisations?

We refuse to give any commission for directing people to this site. We found it would be just too difficult a fee as members of the public would think, ‘Why is the agent getting a kickback? Why am I not receiving any benefit too?’ So we decided to step away from that.

What is the distinction between surveying and conveyancing in Leatherhead?

Conveyancing - in Leatherhead or anywhere in England and Wales - is the legal term given to transferring legal title of property from one person to another. It involves the investigation of the title. Whether buying or selling, you should be aware of anything affecting the property such as proposals by government departments, illegal buildings, or outstanding rates. The conveyancer should conduct the appropriate searches and inquiries on the property. Surveying relates to the structure of a property itself. A surveyor will look at a house, flat and any outbuildings you’re intending to buy and will help you find out about the condition of the building and, if there are problems, give you a powerful reason for reducing the price down or asking the vendor to remedy the defects before you move in.