Appointing a conveyancing lawyer is key element of the house-buying process. Finding the right conveyancer can make the entire process run far more smoothly. Conveyancers deal with the legal process of buying and selling property. Here are five things you should look out for when choosing the right conveyancer for your circumstances.
Get a conveyancing quote
Homebuyers are advised to get a conveyancer in place before making an offer on a property or deciding to sell. One of the key factors in helping you to choose a conveyancer will be the cost, as budgets need to be carefully managed during the complex and costly process of buying a property. You will probably wish to get conveyancing quotes from a number of potential conveyancers.
It is important to make sure these quotes are fully itemised so you know exactly what is included in the price. Good conveyancing quotes will break down all of the services offered, including details such as how much surveys cost and when VAT will be added. Always try to compare at least three quotes and beware of companies which advertise only the legal costs and not the cost of the full process.
Check out a potential conveyancer’s credentials
It goes without saying that you should always check a potential conveyancer’s regulatory status first. Look online for any reviews about the quality of service others have received from them. Estate agents may recommend a conveyancer but beware that some may be getting a fee in return for the recommendation. One of the best ways to find a good, reliable conveyancer is through word of mouth. Speak to family and friends who have moved house recently and find out if they were happy with their conveyancer.
Consider how you wish to communicate
The conveyancing process is based on effective communication and can also involve a great deal of form filling and document sharing. Consider how you would like your conveyancer to communicate with you. Some conveyancing services may choose to carry out most of the communication online or over the telephone. Others may prefer to meet face-to-face where necessary. Consider how important this is to you and which type of approach you would prefer.
If you prefer a more personal service and face-to-face contact, then a local conveyancer may be more suited to you. According to the HomeOwners Alliance the conveyancing process takes on average 12 to 16 weeks, so expect to have plenty of contact from your conveyancing solicitor during that time.
Think about appointing a local firm
In many cases, a conveyancer with a good knowledge of the area in which you are buying can be a big advantage. They will have more in-depth knowledge about certain roads, areas and houses in the vicinity. You may wish to opt for a local conveyancer to benefit from this knowledge. Some property specialists such as Sam Conveyancing have local offices around the country. It also opens up the option to interact with them in person, and reduces the risk of property fraud, which can be easier to perpetrate if transactions and documents are being handled online.
Do you have a good rapport?
It can be genuinely beneficial to speak to your potential conveyancing solicitor in person or on the phone before you hire them. Buying property involves a great deal of communication and so it is important to find someone with whom you have a good rapport. Pick a firm that you find trustworthy with a good communicator who will answer your questions as swiftly as possible.