I am considering applying for a mortgage for purchase of a newly converted (under development) in Plymouth with 70% LTV. 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 much more potential for delays and confusion with two solicitors involved, and it will undoubtedly be more expensive too.

Just acquired a detached house in Plymouth , What is the estimated time for the Land Registry to deal with the formalities evidencing the transfer to my name? My Plymouth conveyancing solicitor works at snail pace, so I want to check that my ownership is recorded.

There is nothing unique when it comes to conveyancing in Plymouth registration formalities. As opposed to being determined by geographic area, timescales can adjust according to who lodges the application, whether there are errors and if the Land registry must send notices to any interested parties. Currently roughly 80% of submission are fully dealt with within two weeks but some can be subject to protracted hold-ups. Historically registration occurs after the buyer has moved in to the premises therefore 'speed' is not usually top priority but where it is urgent that the the registration takes place urgently then you or your lawyers must communicate with the Registry to express the reasoning for the application to be prioritised.

I decided to have a survey completed on a house in Plymouth prior to instructing conveyancers. I have been advised that there is a flying freehold overhang to the house. The surveyor advised that some banks will not grant a mortgage on a flying freehold property.

It depends who your proposed lender is. Santander has different instructions for example to Halifax. Should you wish to telephone us we can investigate further with the relevant lender. If you lender is happy to lend one our lawyers can assist as they are used to dealing with flying freeholds in Plymouth. Conveyancing may be slightly more expensive based on your lender's requirements.

I am thinking of appointing a conveyancing lawyer in Plymouth for my home move. Is it possible to check a firm’s record with the legal regulator?

Members of the public may find published Solicitor Regulator Association (SRA) decisions arising from investigations from 2008 onwards. Go to Check a solicitor's record. To find details Pre 2008, or to check a solicitors history, telephone 0870 606 2555, 08.00 - 18.00 any week day save for Tuesday when lines open at 9.30am. For non-uk callers, use +44 (0)121 329 6800. The regulator sometimes recorded call for training purposes.

Why can't I complete my conveyancing in Plymouth on Easter Monday?

Because on completion the money needs to pass between the banks of the buyer and seller's and currently this can only take place on a business day. It is not possible to complete on a saturday or sunday either.