Q&A: How can we convert our garage into an office?

Q. We live in the Lake District and would like to move to a remote area of Scotland. This is complicated by the conflicting house-buying and selling systems operating in both countries. Is the only solution to sell in England and then rent before buying in Scotland?
A Simpson, Cumbria

Q. We live in the Lake District and would like to move to a remote area of Scotland. This is complicated by the conflicting house-buying and selling systems operating in both countries. Is the only solution to sell in England and then rent before buying in Scotland?
A Simpson, Cumbria

A. You would be highly unlikely to find a solicitor to act for you who is qualified in both countries' jurisdictions. You would need to employ two solicitors, one for the sale in England and the other for the purchase in Scotland. Once you have decided where you would like to live in Scotland, the selling agent will be able to recommend a solicitor locally, or you could try the Scottish Law Society (0131-226 7411). If you decide to sell and buy simultaneously, you might be able to arrange a bridging loan in principle should the sale fall through in England. However, this could be costly.

Q. My daughter is about to look for somewhere to live in September when she returns to university. We have no experience of renting and are wondering if we should buy a property that she could share with friends. Would this be a wise investment?
PP, by e-mail

A. It could be, but you would have to do your research very thoroughly to find out which are the best areas for students, and what the properties cost and their rental values. Many people have already had this idea so you may find properties are expensive. You would also have to be sure that you have proper tenancy agreements for all the tenants, including your daughter. She might also find it restricting to be seen to be "in charge" of the property. The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors has just published two free leaflets for landlords and tenants, offering a checklist of what to consider and who to go to for professional advice. For copies, telephone 0870 333 1600 or log on to www.rics.org for more information.

Q. We have a large garage attached to our house with a high, pitched tiled roof. We would like to turn it into an office/play/games room with a mezzanine level. There is already an internal door from the house. We don't mind retaining the garage doors at the front so that any future owner could revert to using the space as a garage.
TK, by e-mail

A. Firstly, you will have to consult the planning department of your local council to see if you need approval under building regulations or planning permission. This will determine whether you can change the exterior of the garage. You will then have to weigh up the loss of a garage to yourself as well as any future owner. Is there enough room for off-street parking at the front of the property? Would it be the only property in the street without a garage? The garage doors may also contribute to heat loss from the new room.

If you would like a query answered, e-mail: propertyq&a@independent.co.uk. Only those questions featured will be answered. Any advice given will not be legally binding