Me and my partner are purchasing a 2 bedroom flat in Bexley with a mortgage. We like our Bexley conveyancer, however the bank advise she’s not on their "panel". It appears that we have little option but to use one of the mortgage company panel conveyancing practices or retain our Bexley as well as pay for one of their panel ones to act for them. This feels very unfair; is there anything we can do?

Unfortunately,no. Your mortgage offer is subject to its terms and conditions, one of which will be that lawyers will on the lender’s conveyancing panel. Until recently, most lenders had large numbers of law firms on their panels: a borrower could choose one for themselves, as long as it was on the lender's panel. The lender would then simply instruct the borrower's lawyers to act for the lender, too. You can use your lender's panel lawyers or you could borrow from another lender which does not restrict your choice. A further alternative is for your Bexley conveyancing lawyer to apply to be on the conveyancing panel.

My partner and I are buying a newly built flat in Bexley and my conveyancer is informing me that she has to the lender to disclose incentives from the developer. I am on a tight deadline to exchange contracts and I have no desire to prolong deal. is my lawyer playing by the book?

You should not exchange unless you have been advised to do so by your . A precondition to being on a mortgage company panel is to comply with the UK Finance Lenders’ Handbook requirements. The CML Conveyancing Handbook requires that your lawyer have the appropriate Disclosure of Incentive form completed by the developer and accepted by your lender.

Do I need to be concerned that estate agents that I am dealing with are suggesting a nationwide conveyancing firm rather than a local Bexley conveyancing firm?

As with many service providers, often recommendations from relatives can be very helpful. Yet there are lots of players in a conveyancing transaction; estate agents, financial adviser and mortgage companies may put forward conveyancers to retain. On occasion the solicitors might be known to one of the organisations as one of the best in their field, but sometimes there exists a commercial relationship behind the endorsement. You have the right to choose your preferred lawyer. However, bear in mind that the majority of mortgage providers have an approved list of conveyancers you are obliged to use for the lender related work in your transaction.

Bexley Conveyancing for Leasehold Flats - Examples of Queries Prior to buying

How much is the service charge and ground rent on the flat? Best to be warned if fixing the lift or some other major work is anticipated that will be shared amongst the leasehold owners and may well dramatically increase the the service costs or result in a specific invoice. How many years are left on the lease?

I am due to review costs for conveyancing in Bexley from three and appoint one. Am I right to get them to hold tight until I a suitable apartment to buy.

You should only request your to open a file and order searches once the sales memo has been issued by the estate agent especially as Bexley conveyancing searches are a couple of hundred pounds.