Time to Locate a Solicitor

[Anon Private]

Hello,

I will be viewing flats shortly with a view to purchase.

When is the best time to appoint a solicitor? My guess is when I have located a flat that I wish to purchase; but am I correct?

Thanks

UK resident.

 

[totallyproperty]

I would do your research on a good solicitor and their fees, check their availability etc too, so that when you find the right property you know you have a great team in place ready to go (and you don't get any nasty surprises on unexpected costs etc

 

[Anon Private]

I know of a practice, and have used their calculator to check their conveyancing fees. These seem to be in line with other practices - there are differences of course.

I was surprised when I used the calculators to check the fees of various practices to learn that the conveyance fees appear to be around £3.5k. I wonder why they are so high? I expect that it is the stamp duty.

I assume that it is best to wait until I have found the property before contacting a solicitor

 

[Anon Private]

Which is the correct order of events (to buy a flat):

Find flat
Make offer
appoint a surveyor (leaseholders have to pay for major structural repairs, and condition of flat)
Possible re-negotiation, including withdrawal
Appoint and instruct a solicitor

OR

Find flat
Make Offer
Appoint, but not instruct solicitor
Appoint surveyor
Possible re-negotiation
Instruct solicitor

Thanks