Expecting to sign contracts shortly on a basement flat in Kirkby Stephen. Conveyancing lawyers assured me that they will have a report out to me on Monday. Are there areas in the report that I should be focusing on?

Your report on title for your leasehold conveyancing in Kirkby Stephen should include some of the following:

• Setting out your legal entitlements in respect of the communal areas in the block.For instance, does the lease permit a right of way over a path or hallways?
• Does the lease require carpeting throughout thus preventing wood flooring?
• Are you allowed to have a pet in the flat?
• An explanation as to the provision in the lease to pay service charges - with regard to both the building, and the more general rights a leaseholder has
• I don't know whether the lease allows me to alter or improve anything in the flat - you should know whether it applies to all alterations or just structural alteration, and whether consent is required
• What you can do if a neighbour is in violation of a provision in their lease?

I've found a house that appears to be perfect, at a great price which is making it more attractive. I have just discovered that the title is leasehold rather than freehold. I would have thought that there are issues purchasing a leasehold house in Kirkby Stephen. Conveyancing lawyers have not yet been appointed. Will they explain the issues?

The majority of houses in Kirkby Stephen are freehold rather than leasehold. This is one of the situations where having a local solicitor who is familiar with the area can assist with the conveyancing process. it is apparent that you are purchasing in Kirkby Stephen so you should seriously consider looking for a Kirkby Stephen conveyancing solicitor and check that they have experience in transacting on leasehold houses. As a matter of priority you will need to check the number of years remaining. Being a lessee you will not be at liberty to do whatever you want to the property. The lease comes with conditions such as obtaining the freeholder’spermission to carry out changes to the property. It may be necessary to pay a service charge towards the maintenance of the estate where the house is located on an estate. Your lawyer will appraise you on the various issues.

I am attracted to a couple of flats in Kirkby Stephen both have approximately 50 years remaining on the lease term. Will this present a problem?

A lease is a right to use the premises for a prescribed time frame. As a lease shortens the saleability of the lease deteriorate and it becomes more expensive to extend the lease. For this reason it is advisable to extend the lease term. It is often difficulties arise selling premises with a short lease because mortgage companies less inclined to grant a loan on properties of this type. Lease extension can be a difficult process. We advise that you get professional help from a solicitor and surveyor with experience in this arena

I've recently bought a leasehold house in Kirkby Stephen. Do I have any liability for service charges relating to a period prior to completion of my purchase?

In a situation where the service charge has already been demanded from the previous owner and they have not paid you would not usually be personally liable for the arrears. Strange as it may seem, your landlord may still be able to take action to forfeit the lease. A critical element of leasehold conveyancing for your conveyancer to be sure to have an up to date clear service charge receipt before completion of your purchase. If you have a mortgage this is likely to be a requirement of your lender.

If you purchase part way through an accounting year you may be liable for charges not yet demanded even if they relate to a period prior to your purchase. In such circumstances your conveyancer would normally arrange for the seller to set aside some money to cover their part of the period (usually called a service charge retention).

What are your top tips when it comes to appointing a Kirkby Stephen conveyancing practice to deal with our lease extension?

When appointing a property lawyer for lease extension works (regardless if they are a Kirkby Stephen conveyancing firm) it is essential that he or she should be familiar with the legislation and specialises in this area of work. We suggested that you talk with two or three firms including non Kirkby Stephen conveyancing practices before you instructing a firm. If the firm is ALEP accredited then so much the better. Some following of questions could be helpful:

• How experienced is the firm with lease extension legislation?
• What are the costs for lease extension work?

Kirkby Stephen Conveyancing for Leasehold Flats - Sample of Questions you should consider before buying

How much is the ground rent and service charge? Its a good idea to discover as much as you can regarding the managing agents as they will affect your use and enjoyment of the property. As the proprietor of a leasehold property you will be at the mercy of the managing agents both financially and when it comes to every day issues such as the upkeep of the common parts. Enquire of other tenants whether they are happy with them. In conclusion, be sure you discover the dates that you are obliged pay the service charge to the managing agents and precisely what you get for your money.