solicitor? help

[TomTom]

my 1st mortage deal is up soon and due for renewal. Im shopping round to find the best deal I can, but If I swap lenders ie from northern rock to halifax, do I need a solicitor?? Im confused and my minds blown a bit as im a bit of a rookie so any help much appreciated.

[Ethel]

No you don't need a solicitor, the new mortgage company will put their charge with the land registry, which is the only requirement.

Be aware though that you may have to pay an arrangement or admin fee which can vary greatly between companies.

Also - watch out for 'lock ins' which charge you a penalty for paying off the mortgage early. You might win the lottery next week!

I find this site excellent for practical, unbiased advice

http://www.moneysavingexpert.com/mortgages

[Priesty]

A solicitor is needed for a remortgage, some lenders offer free legals, otherwise you will have to pay a conveyancer to act on your behalf.

[erimus1]

Many mortgage companies will insist that you use a certain solicitor to carry oute the conveyance. A bit like insurance companies that ask that you use a particular garage when repairing a car - This is a contravention of Eurapean laws on free movement of goods and services - they are not legally allowed to do it, but still try it on.

[erimus1]

Sorry - I didn't read the question correctly - You do requier a solicitor or a professional conveyancer for a remortgage - They still have to do all the searches and so on.