How To Decide on A Property Conveyancer In 2024

What is a Conveyancing Solicitor? 

A conveyancer is a solicitor who specialises in all legal aspects of property; both residential and commercial. When buying or selling a property, you will usually need to obtain the services of a conveyancing solicitor, who will undertake tasks on your behalf, such as drawing up legal documents and dealing with the Land Registry. 

Conveyancing fees will vary depending on the firm you choose, based on your location and the value of the property that you are buying or selling. Suppose you are buying and selling – i.e. selling your current home and buying a new one. In that case, it will usually be more cost effective and efficient to use the same conveyancing solicitor for both transactions. 

Choosing a Property Conveyancer in 2024

Finding the right fit when it comes to your conveyancing solicitor is of paramount importance as you’ll be relying on this person or firm to get the job done for you as quickly and efficiently as possible. In this section, we’ll run through your checklist for finding the right conveyancing solicitor for your requirements. 

Consider the Location 

Although relatively new, online conveyancing is becoming more common and, while this can be convenient, it may not always be the best option. Where possible, look for conveyancing solicitors in your local area as, not only will they be familiar with the area but you’ll also be able to pop in to see them during the process if necessary. 

Check Reviews 

These days there are few types of business which are not subject to feedback – which means that you should be able to find online reviews for the conveyancing firms on your shortlist. 

It’s a really good idea to make the time to read these reviews as they may highlight issues regarding a firm or individual. Similarly, if there are no reviews at all, this in itself can be a red flag. 

If friends or family have bought or sold similar properties in the same area, it’s absolutely worth asking them for conveyancing recommendations as this can make the search and decision process considerably shorter. 

Meet the Solicitor 

Now that you’ve whittled your shortlist down further, it’s time to get personal. Insist on a meeting or telephone call with your solicitor to get a feel for who they are and how they do business. If they seem disinterested or impatient, it may be time to move on. 

At this stage, it’s also a good idea to ask your conveyancing solicitor to explain their company’s process for conveyancing. As well as giving you an idea of what to expect, this is important as it will also give an indication of how modern the firm is. 

Historically, conveyancing has had a bit of a ‘stuffy’ reputation and, even in 2024, some firms still rely on old fashioned methods rather than embracing advanced technology. For you, this could mean that the process will not only take longer but is also likely to be more expensive. 

Make Your Needs Known 

When hiring a conveyancing solicitor, you will, of course, expect them to keep you up to date with progress and any problems – but communication works both ways. It’s important that you make your solicitor aware of any important information including the date that you need the process to be completed.

Being aware of all of the facts will help your conveyancer to work with you and get the job done in a timely manner. 

Check Your Contract Before Signing 

At the beginning of the process, your conveyancing solicitor should provide you with a contract which will detail all of the pertinent information about your transaction including fees. It’s important that you read this contract carefully – including the small print – before you commit to ensure that there are no additional fees or charges. 

You will also want to check the contract for clauses about what happens if you decide to end the agreement. It may be that you change your mind or the buying / selling transaction falls through – in which case, you need to know how this will impact your conveyancing.

Deciding on a property conveyancer in 2024…

Buying a new home can be really exciting but it can also be paved with pitfalls. Because of this, it’s essential that you have the right person on your side – which means choosing your conveyancing solicitor carefully. 

As detailed in this article, make sure that you do your research, shop around, read those reviews and, most importantly, check out the small print on your contract in order to avoid any nasty surprises. Studies show that the average Brit will live in 11 different homes in their lifetime – so finding the right conveyancing solicitor is a great investment in your future.