I own a freehold house in Crouch End but nevertheless invoiced for rent, why is this and what is this?
It’s unusual for properties in Crouch End and has limited impact for conveyancing in Crouch End but some freehold properties in England (particularly common in North West England) pay an annual sum known as a Chief Rent or a Rentcharge to a third party who has no other legal interest in the land.
Rentcharge payments are usually between £2.00 and £5.00 per year. Rentcharges have existed for hundreds of years, but the Rent Charge Act 1977 barred the creation of fresh rentcharges from 1977 onwards.
Previous rentcharges can now be redeemed by making a one off payment under the Act. Any rentcharges that are still in existence after 2037 will be dispensed with completely.
What is your number one tip for choosing a conveyancing solicitor in Crouch End
We would encourage you not to go for the cheapest Crouch End conveyancing quote. 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 go into the conveyancing with your eyes wide open.
We were going to get a OIP from Santander this week so we know how much we could potentially offer as otherwise we are dependent on web based calculators (which aren't taking into account credit checks etc). Do Santander recommend any Crouch End solicitors on the Santander conveyancing panel, or is it better to find our own lawyer?
You will need to appoint Crouch End solicitors independently although you'll need to choose one on the Santander conveyancing panel. The solicitor represents both you and Santander through the process.
I have decided to exercise my right to buy my property in Crouch End off the council. I have a mortgage offer with Virgin Money. Conveyancing is new to me. Can I proceed without a solicitor easily? I think we can but we keep being told I should have one. Any advice?
It is not advisable to proceed with a house purchase without a solicitor. The council's solicitor are not acting for you. You need a solicitor for a number reasons. One of which is to verify what plans the Council have for repairs and refurbishment for the next five years. Many leaseholders have been stung for contributions of thousands of pounds. In any event, if you are getting a mortgage with Virgin Money, you will need to appoint a solicitor on the Virgin Money conveyancing panel.
The estate agent has sent us the confirmation of our purchase of a new build apartment in Crouch End. Conveyancing is a frightening process at the best of times but I have never purchased a new build flat before. What sort of enquires would be asked in new build conveyancing.
Set out below is a sample of a few leasehold new build questions that you should expect your new-build leasehold conveyancing in Crouch End
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Please provide evidence that the form of Lease proposed has been approved by the Land Registry. The Vendor must covenant to keep unsold units in good repair until long leases are granted therefore. There must be mutual enforceability of lessee’s covenants. Where service of notices and proceedings can be at the property demised please confirm that this can be amended to include simultaneous services at the Lessees’ solicitors’ offices where the Lessee from time to time is not resident in the UK - such solicitors may be varied by notice in writing to the Landlord from time to time but otherwise will be as previously specified. Will control of the Management Company (if any) be handed over to purchasers on completion of the last sale or earlier?
My father-in-law has recommend that I use his lawyers for conveyancing in Crouch End. Should I use them?
Much as we are happy to recommend a Crouch End conveyancing lawyer the ideal way to choose a conveyancing practitioner is to seek referrals from friends or relatives who have actually used the solicitor that you are considering.
What are your top tips when it comes to appointing a Crouch End conveyancing firm to carry out our lease extension conveyancing?
If you are instructing a property lawyer for lease extension works (regardless if they are a Crouch End conveyancing firm) it is essential that he or she should be familiar with the legislation and specialises in this area of work. We advise that you talk with two or three firms including non Crouch End conveyancing practices prior to instructing a firm. Where the conveyancing practice is ALEP accredited then that’s a bonus. The following questions could be helpful:
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Can they put you in touch with clients in Crouch End who can give a testimonial? If they are not ALEP accredited then why not?
We have reached the end of our tether in trying to purchase the freehold in Crouch End. Can this matter be resolved via the Leasehold Valuation Tribunal?
Most definitely. We can put you in touch with a Crouch End conveyancing firm who can help.
An example of a Lease Extension case for a Crouch End property is Flat 2A 19 Shepherds Hill in June 2014. The tribunal concluded in accordance with section 48 and schedule 13 of the Leasehold Reform,Housing and Urban Development Act (the 1993 Act) that the premium payable in respect of the grant of a new lease for the Flat be £24,303 (twenty four thousand three hundred and three pounds) This case was in relation to 1 flat. The unexpired term as at the valuation date was 67.85 years.
At what stage do I pay stamp duty chargeable for my house transaction in Crouch End?
Your lawyer will complete a Land Transaction Return Form on your behalf during your Crouch End purchase transaction for signature. After completion your solicitor will submit your Land Transaction application to the Tax Authorities and - as long as they have the money - pay any tax bill liability for you.