If you are involved in buying, selling, or remortgaging a property in Barnstaple, it is crucial to seek the assistance and advice of experienced conveyancing solicitors. Their expertise will ensure a smooth and problem-free process.
Undoubtedly, engaging in a property transaction brings excitement, but it is important to be aware of potential risks. Our conveyancing team possesses extensive knowledge and experience to mitigate these risks and guide you through your case with utmost care.
At Bird & Co, we strive to offer our clients a reliable and straightforward conveyancing service that is easily accessible. Our conveyancing solicitors will accompany you throughout the entire process, addressing any enquiries you may have.
Additionally, we provide a fast and efficient online conveyancing service, allowing us to cater to a wide range of clients in Barnstaple and across Devon, including Fremington, Bickington and Yelland.
To get in touch with a member of our conveyancing team covering Barnstaple, give us a call or you can get a quote online.
Why choose Bird & Co for property conveyancing in Barnstaple?
- Specialist online conveyancing service – giving access to our expertise across the UK and internationally.
- Conveyancing Quality Scheme (CQS) accreditation by the Law Society – providing confidence that we offer a safe, reliable service.
- A modern, simple and efficient service – removing unnecessary stress from your conveyancing.
- Secure online systems – protecting your money and data throughout the whole conveyancing process.
- Direct access to the solicitor handling your case – meaning you can get the answers you need, when you need them from someone who knows you.
- Competitive fees with a clear quote upfront – See how much your conveyancing might cost by getting a no-obligation quote online.
Interested to find out whether online conveyancing is right for you? Take a look at the benefits of working with our online conveyancers instead of a local conveyancer in Barnstaple.
How our conveyancing solicitors can help people in Barnstaple
Our conveyancing team for Barnstaple are here to assist with all types of property transactions, including:
- Buying and selling your home
- Advice for first time buyers, such as:
- Remortgaging
- Equity release
- Advice about buying as joint tenants or tenants in common
- Buying and selling listed property
- Buying and selling leasehold property
- Collective enfranchisement and buying the freehold of a house
- Lease extension
- Transfer of equity
- Gifting property and Deeds of Gift
- Buy to let conveyancing
- Buying and selling land
- Commercial conveyancing
- Stamp Duty advice
Benefits of working with our online conveyancers instead of a local conveyancer in Barnstaple
- National expertise with many years of experience handling a wide range of transactions – So we have the breadth and depth of expertise for even the most challenging situations.
- Well-developed online systems for a smooth conveyancing experience – Cutting down on delays and frustrations.
- A fast, cost-effective service – So you get a streamlined service that delivers excellent results as standard.
- Accessible expertise across the UK and worldwide – Our first-class online conveyancing services means we are a great choice for people across the UK and around the world who are dealing with property in England and Wales
- Safe, secure conveyancing at all times – Your money and data will be kept safe at all times and we are fully insured just in case.
Our conveyancing fees – how much does our conveyancing cost for properties in Barnstaple?
When it comes to our conveyancing services in Barnstaple, we strive to accommodate your needs with a range of flexible fee options. Our fixed fees cater to straightforward cases, providing you with a transparent breakdown of the expenses involved upfront. In the event that extra fees become necessary during the process, your solicitor will promptly communicate these requirements to you.
Disbursements refer to supplementary costs associated with conveyancing. Some common disbursements encountered during the process include the registration of your property with HM Land Registry and performing necessary conveyancing searches.
Additionally, certain taxes such as Stamp Duty Land Tax or Capital Gains Tax might have implications for your property transaction. In such cases, your solicitor will provide guidance on calculating the owed amount and submitting the required return to HMRC.
Conveyancing FAQs
How does the conveyancing process work in Barnstaple?
The three key steps in the conveyancing process are:
- Offer and acceptance
- Exchange of contracts
- Completion
Once an offer has been accepted, the buyer and seller will agree to initiate a contract. It is important to recognise that until the contract is signed and exchanged by both parties, no legal obligations are in effect.
The buyer's solicitor will conduct various property checks to ensure a comprehensive investigation. These checks may involve:
- Reviewing property information provided by the seller and making further enquiries if necessary (done by the conveyancing solicitor)
- Conducting conveyancing property searches, such as local authority checks (arranged by the conveyancing solicitor)
- Carrying out an independent survey (arranged by the buyer)
At this stage, the buyer may choose to pursue a mortgage if it is deemed necessary.
Once all property checks have been carried out and both parties are content, they will proceed by signing and exchanging contracts, creating a legally binding commitment. Neither party can withdraw from the transaction without facing a financial penalty after this point.
Completion involves the buyer’s solicitor submitting a transfer deed to HM Land Registry, and the seller vacating the property.
How long does conveyancing take in Barnstaple?
Each conveyancing transaction presents its own set of distinctive obstacles, making it difficult to determine an exact timeline for completion. Nonetheless, in typical situations, uncomplicated conveyancing work typically spans approximately 12-14 weeks from the acceptance of an offer and the engagement of solicitors.
Occasionally, unavoidable delays may occur, and your solicitor will ensure that you are regularly updated in such cases.
What searches are involved in conveyancing in Barnstaple?
If you intend to buy a property in Barnstaple, your conveyancer will carry out a range of checks to ensure there are no issues that demand immediate attention.
The three primary conveyancing search categories include:
- Local authority checks – to check the surrounding area for planning and building regulation consents, as well as proposed road schemes and any other planned or proposed work in the area that might affect the occupier of the property
- Environmental searches – to check for issues such as flooding or land contamination
- Water and drainage searches – to check matters such as water and drainage access
Should further checks be needed, your conveyancing solicitors with notify you promptly.
Is it better to use a conveyancing solicitor or a conveyancer for Barnstaple property?
For the average property buyer or seller, the distinction between a conveyancing solicitor and a licensed conveyancer may not be immediately evident. Both qualifications enable professionals to handle property transactions. While neither option is inherently better, there are advantages to be gained by working with a solicitors’ firm.
In addition to their specialisation in property transactions, solicitors’ firms offer expertise in various other legal areas, which can prove highly valuable to individuals engaged in property buying or selling. These areas include Wills and inheritance, property rights for unmarried couples, and dispute resolution. Engaging solicitors ensures that clients have access to a wide range of expertise, providing support across different legal matters that may arise during the process.
What issues should buyers consider when purchasing a home in Barnstaple?
When buying property in Barnstaple, Devon, there are several common issues that people might encounter. Here are some specific local property issues to be aware of:
Flooding: Barnstaple is located on the river Taw, making it susceptible to flooding. Certain areas in Barnstaple may have a higher risk of flooding, so it's important to investigate the property's flood history and potential flood risk areas in the vicinity.
Radon Gas: Radon gas is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can seep into buildings, especially in areas with granite or shale geology like parts of Devon. It is advisable to conduct a radon gas test in the property to ensure safe levels.
Mining Subsidence: Parts of Devon, including Barnstaple, have a history of mining activities. Mining subsidence can lead to ground instability and structural issues in properties. It's essential to investigate the property's mining history and assess the risk of subsidence.
Conservation Areas: Barnstaple has several conservation areas with specific regulations and restrictions aimed at preserving the historic character of the town. If the property is located within a conservation area, there may be limitations on modifications, renovations, or alterations that you can make. It's important to be aware of these restrictions before purchasing a property.
Listed Buildings: Barnstaple is home to numerous listed buildings, which are properties of historical or architectural significance. Owning a listed building comes with responsibilities and restrictions regarding alterations and maintenance. If the property is listed, you should familiarise yourself with the associated regulations and seek appropriate permissions for any planned changes.
Leasehold Properties: Some properties in Barnstaple, particularly flats and apartments, may be leasehold rather than freehold. It's crucial to review the lease terms, understand the associated costs, and be aware of any restrictions or obligations imposed by the lease.
Infrastructure and Development Plans: Stay informed about local development plans, infrastructure projects, or major roadworks that may impact the property you are considering. This knowledge will help you assess the potential effects on the property's value, access, or quality of life.
What documents does a property solicitor need for conveyancing in Barnstaple?
The process of residential conveyancing necessitates various documents, and the specific requirements vary depending on whether you are buying or selling a property.
If you are buying a property in Barnstaple, you will need to provide the following documents as part of the process:
- Identification (e.g. passport or driving licence)
- Proof of address
- Proof of funds (such as bank statements)
- The official offer of mortgage
To sell a property, you will need documents including:
- Proof of ownership
- Seller’s Property Information Form
- Certificates, guarantees and planning permission documentation
- Fitting and contents form
- Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
- Leasehold or freehold information
- Details of the mortgage
How do you instruct our conveyancing solicitors in Barnstaple?
To get in touch with one of our conveyancers covering Barnstaple, you can give us a call or fill in our online enquiry form to request a call back.
Our dedicated team of conveyancers for Barnstaple are here to assist you with the initial stages of your conveyancing process. Once your file is opened, our skilled conveyancer will handle all the intricate legal aspects of your transaction.
Whether you're relocating to, from, or within Barnstaple, you can rely on our conveyancing solicitors and their expert knowledge.
Get in touch with our conveyancing solicitors for Barnstaple
Get in touch with our conveyancing solicitors covering Barnstaple by giving us a call or you can get a quote online.