We are looking to buy a flat and need a conveyancing solicitor in Downham who is on the Skipton conveyancing panel. Could you point me in the right direction as regards a solicitor?

Our service is limited to being a directory service for firms who wish to be listed as being on the approved conveyancing panel for Skipton . We don't recommend any particular firms conducting conveyancing in Downham.

It has been four months since my purchase conveyancing in Downham completed. I have checked the Land Registry website which shows that I paid £150,000 when infact I paid £170,000. 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 premises 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.

How does conveyancing in Downham differ for newly converted properties?

Most buyers of new build premises in Downham come to us having been asked by the housebuilder to sign contracts and commit to the purchase even before the property is ready to move into. This is because developers in Downham typically purchase the land, plan the estate and want to get the plots sold off as they are building the properties. Buyers, therefore, will have to exchange contracts without actually seeing the house they are buying. To reduce the chances of losing the property, buyers should instruct conveyancers as soon as the property is reserved and mortgage applications should be submitted quickly. Due to the fact that it could be several months and even years between exchange of contracts and completion, the mortgage offer may need to be extended. It would be wise to use a lawyer who specialises in new build conveyancing especially if they are used to new build conveyancing in Downham or who has acted in the same development.

Due to the advice of my in-laws I had a survey completed on a property in Downham before appointing lawyers. I have been advised that there is a flying freehold element to the house. My surveyor advised that some mortgage companies tend not issue a loan on such a house.

It varies from the lender to lender. Bank of Scotland has different requirements from Nationwide. If you call us we can investigate further via the relevant mortgage company. If you lender is happy to lend one our lawyers can assist as they are accustomed to dealing with flying freeholds in Downham. Conveyancing may be slightly more expensive based on your lender's requirements.

What are your top tips when it comes to appointing a Downham conveyancing practice to deal with our lease extension?

When appointing a solicitor for lease extension works (regardless if they are a Downham conveyancing firm) it is most important that he or she should be familiar with the legislation and specialises in this area of work. We suggest that you make enquires with two or three firms including non Downham conveyancing practices prior to instructing a firm. Where the conveyancing practice is ALEP accredited then that’s a bonus. The following questions could be helpful:

If they are not ALEP accredited then why not? What are the legal fees for lease extension conveyancing?

My wife and I have hit a brick wall in trying to purchase the freehold in Downham. Can the Leasehold Valuation Tribunal adjudicate on premiums?

Most definitely. We are happy to put you in touch with a Downham conveyancing firm who can help.

An example of a Freehold Enfranchisement matter before the tribunal for a Downham flat is Ravensbourne Lodge 4 Highland Road in February 2013. the Tribunal held that the amount payable for the freehold was £22,268