Whether you are buying or selling, awareness of local considerations will positively impact the likelihood of a successful sale or purchase. Our Solicitors' maintain a network of Buckingham contacts. They are also cognisant of the issues and considerations native to the area.

We have assisted home movers throughout Buckingham, including Conveyancing in MK18.

Disadvantaged Areas in Buckingham

The government has designated certain areas as 'disadvantaged areas' and property purchases in such areas may qualify for relief from stamp duty. In England and Wales, they are based on local government wards and electoral divisions. Because designated regions for relief are defined according to electoral wards, a postcode search is no guarantee a property will be eligible. Normal rates of stamp duty apply for purchases greater than £150k. By making a straightforward search by postcode, you can usually determine if a property purchase below £150,000 will benefit, however. For more information regarding Buckingham disadvantaged areas, or to determine if your prospective purchase qualifies, call us today.

Council Tax Rates in Buckingham

The sellers conveyancing solicitor will confirm the council tax banding and rates for the house or flat being sold. Buckingham Council Tax rates are set by Aylesbury Vale Council. 2012/13 bandings are* -

• Band A - £996
• Band B - £1162
• Band C - £1328
• Band D - £1494
• Band E - £1826
• Band F - £2158
• Band G - £2490
• Band H - £2988

*Source - www.communities.gov.uk

What are the consequences if your solicitor is not on your lender's panel?

Many lenders, and particularly nationwide banks, were once willing to instruct any solicitors who requested to be added to their panel. Lenders have also reduced the size of their panels, setting more restrictive criteria for membership. If your lender does not accept your chosen solicitor, you must make a decision as to how to proceed:

• Instruct another firm who is on your lender's panel, or,
• Find a mortgage from a different lender

You could also choose to work with your current solicitor, but you will have to pay the lender's costs in addition to your own, as they will instruct a member of their panel. 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 Buckingham, Buckinghamshire, try:

• NatWest Bank plc, 2, Market Hill, MK18 1JS - Tel: 0845 6002803
• Barclays Bank plc, 11, Market Square, MK18 1NS - Tel: 0845 7555555
• Lloyds TSB Bank plc, 19, Market Square, MK18 1NP - Tel: 0845 3000000