Jane Williams

In 2022, equity release loans in UK totalled around £6 billion. In 2023, due to higher rates of interest, this is likely to fall to around £2.5 - £3 billion of loans being taken up. The managing partner of Martin Tolhurst,...

What you need to know when buying a New Build Property in the UK. Buying a new build property in the UK can be an exciting venture, offering modern designs, energy efficiency, and the opportunity to be the first owner. However, purchasing a new...

In the year to 31 March 2022, fraud became the most committed crime in the United Kingdom, with more than 4.5 million offences in a year. However, there is no evidence that the risk of fraud is being translated into police resources – fraud accounts...

If you're looking to sell property in the UK, you may have considered selling at a traditional auction. But is selling property at auction right for you? In this article, we'll explore the legal implications, rules and regulations, and important...

Buying property at a traditional auction can be a thrilling and potentially rewarding experience. However, it is important to be aware of the legal implications, rules and regulations, and possible risks involved in such a purchase. In this article, we...

It's a week since the firm attended the annual Law Net Conference and Awards 2022 on Friday 1st July at the Celtic Manor Resort in Wales. The annual conference is the flagship event in the LawNet solicitors calendar each year,...

With summer in full swing, many people are planning to make changes to their gardens. Some changes might be extensive, including decking, a garden office, fences or a total landscaping overhaul. While you generally won’t need permission to plant your...

A recent survey has given some insight as to reasons why a buyer withdraws from a transaction. The survey was carried out by a “quick buy” company that specialises in buying houses where transactions have recently fallen through. Almost...

Over the past 12 months, I have dealt with more equity release lifetime mortgage cases than in the previous 5 years put together. There is no doubt that equity release is becoming a more popular product and this is likely to increase as house prices rise...

The impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the UK’s economic agenda dominated the Chancellor’s 2021 Budget Statement, with support for business and jobs receiving top-line billing. Coronavirus lockdown keeps chancellor’s attention on...

Non UK residents to pay Stamp Duty surcharge from 1 st April 2021 With all the press focus on the Stamp Duty holiday that is shortly to come to an end it is a good time to also focus on an another potential increase in Stamp Duty due to...

Residential Property Buy To let - Update for Landlords on the Tenant Fees Act 2019 and Electrical Checks for rented properties coming this year. For landlords renting out private properties a Tenant Fees Act 2019 was the latest in a long line of...

Thinking of buying a property for the first time in the next 10 years? Take action this month! If you are someone who might buy a property for the first time in the next 10 years then you may need to take some action over the next month! The Help...

It’s that time of year where we get a few instructions that usually begin with the conversation “We’ve been going on holiday to Devon/Cornwall/Dorset/Norfolk for some years now, we love it there and this time we decided on the spur of the...

Warmer weather draws our attention to the outdoors and a visit to the garden centre will be top of the to-do list for many as their thoughts turn to gardens after the slow start to spring. But being sure of the ground rules is a good idea before...

Those thinking about Spring and the changes it may bring are likely to be focused on the countdown towards the Brexit deadline of 29 th March, but there are also homeowners, estate agents and solicitors up and down the country who are wondering whether to...

If you own your own property, then you’re generally responsible for the upkeep of the building. The buck stops with you, whether the property is residential or commercial, and by law you have to ensure it’s safe for members of the public to enter...

If you’re attempting to obtain planning permission to develop your property, you need to ensure that you understand exactly what is expected of you, and what requirements you need to meet in order for your application to be granted. These will differ...

The Government has announced plans to tackle unfair leaseholder arrangements on new-build properties, but in the meantime, as the spring housing market gets into full swing, it’s worth understanding the difference between freehold and leasehold...

Research shows that gazumping is back in the property market and Jane Williams, a partner at Martin Tolhurst Solicitors, the South East’s busiest conveyancing firm, has looked at the reason behind gazumping. Research from Countrywide Estate...