Help to buy schemes for first-time buyers
Buying a house is one of the biggest investments you will make in your lifetime and we understand that it can be especially difficult when you are a first-time buyer. The government has set up various help to buy schemes to assist first-time buyers get their feet on the ladder. Let’s take a look at…
How to buy a house with just 5% deposit
The standard amount of deposit generally required to purchase a house is 10% of the purchase price. When you’re a first-time buyer, this can be a huge and daunting figure to even consider saving for. Under the Help to Buy Scheme, introduced by the Government in April 2013, home buyers can purchase…
Simplifying the conveyancing process
Buying or selling your home can be a stressful experience and, as solicitors, we want to make this as simple and straightforward process for you. However, the number of parties involved in the process can sometimes delay the process. From estate agents, two or more sets of solicitors, banks and…
Spring has sprung: the Spring Statement and first time buyers
The Chancellor announced his Spring Statement on Tuesday 13 March 2018. In it, he emphasised building more new homes, improved transport and reducing debt. But what does this mean for you? Does it provide a real benefit to first time buyers and those struggling to buy a property? The Government has…
West Yorkshire property development. Is this the place to invest?
With recent reports suggesting that property development in Leeds is booming, and that Bradford is the best city in the UK for start-up businesses, it looks like things are on the up for West Yorkshire. Certainly, we at Levi Solicitors LLP have seen an increase in instructions in our new build and…
How do I get help to buy my house?
Purchasing a home can be costly, and it is well documented that getting that first step on the property ladder can be especially difficult. However, there are various government schemes set up to help you on to that first rung. We look at the schemes available to you and how to use them to your…
Abolition of stamp duty for first-time buyers
The Chancellor announced the Autumn 2017 Budget on Wednesday. One of the more popular proposals within the Budget has been welcomed by those attempting to climb onto the property ladder. What was announced? With immediate effect, stamp duty will be cut for first time buyers purchasing a property in…
I have discovered a problem with my new home! What can I do?
When you are purchasing a property, you are at risk of discovering problems with it after you have completed the purchase. What can you do if problems such as faulty electrics, inadequate building work, leaks or general damage to the property occur within weeks or even months of the purchase? The…
What is stamp duty and when do I need to pay it?
Stamp Duty Land Tax (also known as SDLT or just Stamp Duty) is a type of tax payable on the purchase of land or property in the UK. It is payable to HMRC and the amount payable depends on the value and type of transaction. Your solicitor will be able to advise the level of stamp duty payable, and…
How can you protect yourself from property fraud?
Property fraud in the UK is on the rise as fraudsters use increasingly sophisticated ways to target home owners. As July is Scam Awareness Month, we take a look at how you can protect yourself from potential property fraud. What is property fraud? A recent case has seen a fraudster purporting to be…