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Different strokes
For conveyancing solicitors, quality is a key differentiator in a packed market. But does quality mean the same thing to us as to our clients, or from one client to the next? Peter Rodd reports
Features
Fail to plan
Helping clients to understand how planning permission works can be challenging. Linda Russell provides a back to basics guide to what all property solicitors need to know about planning
Money from home
Alison Clair looks at property fraud, particularly where the property is retained, how mortgage lenders are combating it, and how solicitors and mortgage lenders can work together to stamp it out
On the borderline
David Parton and Anne Pacey explain the differences between Scottish and English conveyancing law and practice, and look at the advantages and disadvantages for buyers and sellers of the two very different systems
Taking control
The right to manage, which allows flat-owners to take over management of their building subject to certain criteria, is 10 years old this September. Christopher Sykes looks at its impact, the case law to date, and whether it is working in practice
Life’s great mysteries
Winning business is one of the biggest challenges in today’s hugely competitive market. But, as the results of a recent mystery shopping exercise show, many conveyancing firms are failing at this vital step. Richard Mathias outlines the lessons to learn
On the edge
Boundary disputes can be highly emotive for clients, leading them to expensive litigation over tiny areas of land. Philip Hesketh explains how mediation in such disputes can help both clients and solicitors
A house divided
An increasing number of people are buying property with someone who is not their spouse, and unless there is a declaration of trust in place to determine their beneficial shares of the property, problems could arise when they come to sell, or if they die. Fay Copeland explains
Paper chase
Stephen Jewell of HM Revenue & Customs outlines recent findings on common errors on paper stamp duty land tax returns
Under the hammer
Auction sales can be challenging even for the experienced property solicitor. Paul Clark explains how the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors’ Common Auction Conditions can help
End of the line
In a volatile market, flexibility is essential for business owners, including in terms of the premises from which they operate. Dalia Ross explains how to advise commercial tenants who may wish to terminate their leases early
