My fiancee and I are purchasing our first home. The conveyancer has e-mailedto enquire if we wish to take out extra conveyancing searches. We are really unsure what's relevant for conveyancing in Somerton

The type of Somerton conveyancing searches should be triggered based primarily on the premises, the location, the likelihood of any of these risks, your knowledge of the area and risks, your general attitude to risk. What matters is that you properly understand what information the searches could give you. Then you can make a decision if you consider that you need that search. If unclear, ask your conveyancing practitioner to guide you.

I am considering applying for a Kent Reliance mortgage for purchase of a new build (under development) in Somerton with 70% LTV. Is it compulsory to choose a solicitor on the conveyancing panel for Kent Reliance ?

There is nothing to stop you using your solicitor, but Kent Reliance will insist on their interests being represented by a firm on their conveyancing panel. There is greater potential for delays and confusion with two solicitors involved, and it will undoubtedly be more expensive too.

I am intent on selling our property in Somerton and according to the buyers it appears that there is a risk of it being constructed on contaminated land. Any local conveyancer would know that there is no such problem. For the life of me I don't know why the purchasers used a national conveyancing outfit as opposed to a conveyancing solicitor in Somerton. We have lived in Somerton for many years we know of no issue. Is it a good idea to contact our local Authority to get clarification that the buyers are looking for.

It would appear that you have a conveyancing lawyer currently acting for you. Are they able to advise? You need to enquire of your lawyer before you do anything. It is very possible that once the local authority has been informed of a potential issue it cannot be insured against (a bit like being diagnosed with a serious illness and then taking out health insurance to cover that same illness)

Over the last few months I have been searching for a ground for flat up to £245,000 and found one round the corner in Somerton I like with amenity areas and railway links nearby, however it's only got 51 years unexpired on the lease. I can't really find anything else in Somerton suitable, so just wondered if I would be making a grave error acquiring a short lease?

If you need a mortgage the shortness of the lease may be a potential deal breaker. Discount the price by the expected lease extension will cost if not already taken into account. If the current owner has owned the property for a minimum of twenty four months you may request that they commence the lease extension formalities and pass it to you. You can add 90 years to the current lease with a zero ground rent applied. You should consult your conveyancing lawyer concerning this matter.

How easy is it to use your search facility to find a conveyancing practitioner in Somerton on the approved list for my bank?

1st pick a mortgage company such as Nationwide Building Society, Chelsea Building Society or Godiva Mortgages Ltd then choose your preferred area e.g. Somerton. Conveyancing firms in Somerton and nationally will then be listed.