I understand that there are debates on Chancel Insurance on online forums. Do I require this when buying a residence in Downham? or I am told that there is an ancient law that could mean that owners of property residing in a parish church boundary may be liable to contribute towards maintenance towards the chancel within the church. Is this appropriate for conveyancing in Downham?

Unless a prior purchase of the property completed after 12 October 2013 you may expect conveyancing practitioners delivering conveyancing in Downham to remain recommending a chancel search and or chancel repair liability policy.

How does conveyancing in Downham differ for new build properties?

Most buyers of new build residence in Downham approach us having been asked by the developer to exchange contracts and commit to the purchase even before the premises is completed. This is because new home sellers in Downham tend to acquire 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 property lawyers 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 accustomed to new build conveyancing in Downham or who has acted in the same development.

Yesterday I discovered that there is a flying freehold issue on a property I have offered on a fortnight ago in what should have been a straight forward, chain free conveyancing. Downham is the location of the property. What do you suggest?

Flying freeholds in Downham are not the norm but are more likely to exist in relation to terraced houses. Even where you use a solicitor outside Downham you must be sure that your lawyer goes through the deeds thoroughly. Your bank may require your conveyancing solicitor to take out an indemnity policy. Some of the more diligent conveyancing solicitors in Downham may decide that this is not enough and that the deeds be re-written to give you the most up to date legal protection. If so, the next door neighbour also had to sign up to the revised deeds.It is possible that your lender will not accept the situation so the sooner you find out the better. You should also check with your insurance broker as to whether they will insure a flying freehold premises.

I need to retain a conveyancing solicitor for sale conveyancing in Downham. I've discover a site which looks to be the perfect solution If it is possible to get all formalities completed via email that would be ideal. Should I be wary? What should out be looking out for?

As usual with these online conveyancers you need to read ALL the small print - did you notice the extra charge for dealing with the mortgage?

I am short of a 10% deposit on my house purchase in Downham , but I am keen proceed. What can I do?

You can agree a lesser deposit. Many property owners will accept a smaller deposit or even no deposit for a first time buyer or 100% mortgage. Be aware though that if you fail to complete you will still need to hand over a minimum of 10% of the purchase price regardless of how much deposit was agreed.

You can also agree a simultaneous exchange and completion as no deposit is required for this however neither party will be tied in until completion actually takes place and it can be risky if sellers change their mind at the last moment