When do you need to arrange a conveyancing solicitor in Somerset?
Generally, as soon as possible. Early instruction of a firm for a sale can mean that prior to marketing the property, documents can be prepared to make it potentially more attractive to motivated buyers, whereas if you are buying you can shave days off the process by having the details of your instructed solicitor ready when you make an offer.
We are selling in Somerset, and have had a quote from you. Could there be any additional fees?
Homeward Legal's solicitors do not hide any hidden extra fees. Know that some conveyancers give 'quotes' which are in fact estimates, which they will not be required to adhere to.
Should I list my property with more than one estate agent?
The choice is entirely up to you and your specific circumstances. Going with a sole agent is probably the cheapest option (although the reach to buyers is dependent on how many clients are on their books), while multiple agents will be more expensive (but will reach a broader client base).
If you’re looking for a quick sale or the market is rather sluggish, it makes sense to put your property on with a number of agents. If the market is buoyant, it makes more sense to place the property with a sole agent.
Whichever you choose, you should always check the terms and conditions so that you know what service you’re getting for your money and how much it will cost you once the home is sold. You should also understand if there are penalties should you decide to place the property with more or fewer agents later on during the agreement period.
Having read about the flooding in Sept 2012 in South West England, we are questioning whether environmental searches might not be sufficient?
Environmental searches handled by a property lawyer in Somerset should also include the more specialist search (Landmark) if the risk warrants it.
If you remain still nervous try to get in touch with a local resident.
How much effort is it to sort out a house in multiple occupancy (HMO)?
A house in multiple occupancy is defined as a property where at least three tenants live forming more than one household (one person or more living together), but share kitchen and bathroom facilities.
As a landlord of an HMO, your responsibilities include ensuring proper fire safety measures are in place, gas safety checks are completed annually, the electric system is checked every five years, there are sufficient bathroom and kitchen facilities for everyone to comfortably use, communal areas are kept clean and safe to use, and waste disposal is managed effectively (provision of bins and bags).
This requires more effort than having a property to rent to one household, and you may wish to employ a solicitor to sort out the legal side of things in the first instance, and a property management company to handle the administration, disputes, etc. on a daily basis.
Homeward Legal's experienced solicitors have completed many different transactions including properties for HMOs. Why not give us a quick call now on 0800 038 6699 to get your conveyancing under way today?