"Bicester’s proximity and close relationship with Oxfordshire has contributed to the town’s economic development. There is however, a significant imbalance between homes and employment. There is a need to improve standards of education and training in Bicester and to make it more attractive to new businesses, visitors, and residents.

Bicester is undergoing a transition from a historically small market town to a rapidly expanding commuter town, given its location on the strategic road and rail networks. As a result, home owners will be affected by extensive redevelopment works.

Knowledge of the local Bicester area is key to an easier, faster move. Our Conveyancing specialists in Bicester have close working associations with a broad range of local information sources. In addition, areas of concern specific to the Bicester region will also be examined.

We have assisted home movers throughout Bicester, including Conveyancing in OX25, OX26, OX27."

Local issues considered by Bicester Conveyancing Solicitors:

What is a TPO?

It is important for a Bicester buyer to know if a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) affects any trees on the property being purchased, but fortunately consent is not required for cutting down or carrying out work on trees which are dead or dying or have become dangerous. Trees planted in accordance with a condition placed on new build property developers are not necessarily subject to a TPO.

Risks associated with Contaminated Land

There can be significant implications for anyone buying a house which has been built on contaminated land. Bicester conveyancing solicitors now routinely carry out searches to find out whether properties are at risk. Landowners whose land is contaminated may be liable for the cost of remedial works, and the cost implications can be substantial. Insurance to cover contamination-related issues may be recommended by your solicitor, if appropriate. Issues relating to contamination inhalation of hazardous dust, exposure to lead and other toxic substances, and water pollution.

Landfill in Bicester:

• Ardley Quarry (southern Extension), Ardley Quarry Southern Ext, Ardley Fields Farm, Oxfordshire, OX27 7PH. The site has been classified as hazardous.

Fridaysmoves property lawyers in Bicester are on all UK mortgage lender panels, including:

The consequences of your solicitor not being on your Mortgage Lender's panel

Lenders once permitted any solicitors' firm to join their panel. These panels were established so that firms could join and thereby perform legal work on mortgages on behalf of lenders. Lenders have also reduced the size of their panels, setting more restrictive criteria for membership. If a lender will not instruct a firm you have picked to perform your legal work, you have the following choices:

• Obtain a mortgage from a less restrictive lender
• Instruct a solicitor whom your lender accepts
• Pay the lenders costs for their solicitor in addition to your own

It is usually cheaper to have the same firm act both for you and your lender, and carry out all the conveyancing work in connection with a purchase and the mortgage. Issues to consider if you intend to swap to a firm on the panel:

• The second firm may have a different fee structure, or higher fees
• Work which the first solicitor has completed already may need to be paid for regardless of your decision.
• Your new conveyancing solicitor may have weaker local knowledge.

Looking for a mortgage lender with a branch in Bicester, Oxfordshire, try:

• Coventry Building Society, 54, Sheep St, OX26 6LG - Tel: 01869 249900
• Halifax, 43-45, Sheep St, OX26 6JJ - Tel: 01869 857704