I have given 8 weeks notice to my current landlord and have to be out of my let out property in Soho by 23/4/2026. Conveyancing on my purchase is progressing. Can I complete in a couple of weeks as I wish to avoid having to find short term accommodation?
Generally one should not provide notice on a rental unless you have exchanged. Assuming that you have not already done so, update to your solicitor and ask them to they chase the owners lawyers, try to an acceptable time-line that everyone will work towards
There are numerous conveyancing solicitors in Soho but how do I know who's good?
Do not opt for the cheapest Soho conveyancing costs illustration. You really do get what you pay for when it comes to conveyancing solicitors. A cheap quote may mean that the conveyancing solicitor is handling a lot of jobs at one time and you won’t get the quality of service and the attention that you need. It is, however, wise to use a conveyancer who has a fixed fee on a no sale, no fee basis. This way, you know exactly what you’ll have to pay in advance.
Are all Soho Conveyancing Quality Solicitors on the Santander conveyancing list of approved practices?
It is true that some banks and building societies now make use of the accreditation scheme as the kick off point for Panel membership such as HSBC and Santander. CQS accreditation however gives no guarantee to lender panel acceptance. Nevertheless,the Council of Mortgage Lenders have indicated that it is likely to become a pre-requisite for firms wishing to join their approved list of conveyancing solicitors.
We expect to receive a OIP from RBS this week so we can work out what to offer on a property we like as otherwise we are dependent on web based calculators (which aren't taking into account credit checks etc). Do RBS recommend any Soho solicitors on the RBS conveyancing panel, or is it better to go independently?
You will need to appoint Soho solicitors independently although you'll need to choose one on the RBS conveyancing panel. The solicitor represents both you and RBS through the process.
I have been told that property searches are the main reason for obstruction in Soho house deals. Is that correct?
The Council of Property Search Organisations (CoPSO) has noted the findings of research by MoveWithUs that conveyancing searches do not figure amongst the top 10 causes of delays in the conveyancing process. Local searches are unlikely to be the root cause of holding up conveyancing in Soho.
How does conveyancing in Soho differ for new build properties?
Most buyers of new build property in Soho come to us having been asked by the housebuilder to exchange contracts and commit to the purchase even before the premises is built. This is because developers in Soho typically acquire the real estate, 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 used to new build conveyancing in Soho or who has acted in the same development.
Due to the guidance of my in-laws I had a survey completed on a house in Soho before retaining lawyers. I have been told that there is a flying freehold aspect to the property. My surveyor has said that some mortgage companies tend refuse to grant a mortgage on a flying freehold property.
It varies from the lender to lender. Lloyds has different instructions from Birmingham Midshires. If you call us we can check via the relevant bank. If you lender is happy to lend one our lawyers can assist as they are used to dealing with flying freeholds in Soho. Conveyancing can be more complicated and therefore you should check with your conveyancing solicitor in Soho to see if the conveyancing will be more expensive.
What is the reason for new build conveyancing in Soho being more expensive?
Conveyancing in Soho for newly converted or new build premises often involve adoption of highways & drains, building regulations approval, planning permission, new build warranties such NHBC as well as supplemental investigations and contractual considerations.