Buyers and sellers look to their solicitors for guidance through the conveyancing process. We believe this guidance is very important and should be available from qualified solicitors throughout. Our residential property guide is also freely available to help.
Searches and enquiries obtain information for the buyer from local authorities, water and drainage utilities, environmental and mining records and from the seller. The information obtained should be cross-checked against the survey report. This is the buyer’s opportunity to find out as much as possible about the property before committing to the purchase by exchange of contracts.
Second homes involve the same issues, but also require checks for any restrictions on holiday lettings and advice on the different capital gains tax treatment on sale. Sometimes an owner occupier wishes to sell part of the garden, or divide a house into flats; specific issues then arise on subdividing a title.