Lease questions/freehold

Lzb

Hello all, 

Just looking for some advice. I am in the middle of purchasing a flat. It is leasehold however it will be offered as free hold when all the flats in the building have sold. The sellers intend to offer flat owners on the sale of the last flat via freehold company. Has anyone done this before? Also how much is this likely to cost? 
I have also been waiting for 8 weeks for the following enquires raised. 
1.  Confirm if there are no overriding interests benefitting the properly and that the seller is not aware of any easements which will be excluded by virtue of thisclause.
2. Provide the lease plans with the respective numbering. 
3. The charges register for the freehold title refers covenants and other matters contained in a conveyance dated 6th Oct 1955. Please provide a copy of this document, in the absence of this, confirm that the seller will pay for an unknown rights and covenants indemnity insurance policy on completion.

I am starting to get fed up, put the offer in beginning of Jan. And still waiting. How long should it take for a solicitor to respond to the above? Any advice how I can move the process along? Seems to be taking forever. 

gwynlas

If you are in England or Wales flat cannot become freehold you will own a share of the freehold. The developer might outsurce the managing of the block to an agent who will charge for this service, it will be up to all residents if they retain this agent or appoint your own. Some large property management companies can be difficult to deal with as they do not have local knowledge or any personal interest. It is in your best interests to educate yourself on management companies etc as it will help you a lot with future service charges and block maintenance. Service charges and ground rent vary as to where in the country you are and what amenities you have eg concierge, maintained communal garden, window cleaning etc they also include the buildings insurance and utilities for common areas. They should also include a sinking fund contribution to pay for such outgoings as future redecoration etc so individual flat owners do not face large bills.