Choosing a Conveyancing Lawyer
There are many emotions involved in buying or selling a home. There are many ups and downs that are a part of this lengthy process. It is easy to become stressed or even anxious at some point. As a matter of fact, trials and tribulations are common according to a survey conducted by Home Selling Buyer Expert, a consumer advice website, in 2022. The survey concluded that 31% of all home property sales fall through at least once.
Trying to buy or sell a house without legal advice can not only be frustrating, but it can also reveal some legal challenges that become quite costly. The process that transfers land and property ownership from one person to another is called conveyancing. Conveyancing is best done with legal assistance.
A great lawyer will listen to your wishes and non-negotiables so that he or she can be your advocate and spokesperson throughout the legal process of conveyancing, communicating with you throughout the process. So, how do you go about finding a great legal representative?
- Research!
Follow the Rule of 3! Do your research on conveyancing services. Use word of mouth to follow recommendations from your social circles and read online reviews so that you can narrow the options down to 3 different service providers.
- Quality!
You are looking deeper than a price tag here. You need a conveyancing lawyer who will help you to the best of his or her ability and will do the work of completing the sale and transferring property ownership. When seeking a quote, give as many details as possible about the services you require and ask for any foreseeable expenses that the conveyancing lawyer would expect. This should give you a close to accurate quote. Beware of low fees as this often implies that the solicitor is working with many clients or that they will be passing your needs down to a junior member with minimal experience.
- Credible and Regulated! Lawyers can be part of regulatory bodies, demonstrating that they are being held accountable to providing services that meet a certain standard. Some common regulatory bodies may include Law Society’s Conveyancing Quality Scheme (CQS) or Solicitors Regulation Authority. Credentials prove reputable and regulated services will be provided. Don’t let an unaccredited solicitor take advantage of you or your pursuit of having a new home.
- Honest and Confident! If you are unable to feel comfortable with the conveyance lawyer that you have chosen, then trust your gut. Being able to meet in person will give you insight to the person’s work ethic and integrity. Beware of solicitors who will work only online or are working from a remote location. Being seen and heard should be important to you and to them.
Know your personal boundaries! And stand firm. In the end, the conveyancing lawyer is working with and for you. This person needs to be able to represent you honestly and confidently but also to communicate efficiently and effectively with you and on your behalf. Local offices may be the best for delivering such standards.
Your non-negotiables should be a top priority to a conveyancing lawyer. These are issues and concerns that can result in a deal breaker. A conveyancing lawyer who will listen to you and speak up on your behalf is irreplaceable!
5. Speak Up and Seek to Understand! When you are working through the legal processes of conveyancing, it is understandable that there will be laws, regulations, and terminology that are unfamiliar to you. You will get out of this experience what you put into it. Speak up and ask questions when you don’t understand!
Instructing a conveyancing lawyer is an investment worth making. People sometimes work through the conveyancing process on their own. It takes a lot of time to research and investigate the legal ramifications of making a mistake or of being taken advantage of. The professionals of Parfitt Cresswell would like to encourage you to take the time to find a lawyer who is well-versed in conveyancing law. If working with a mortgage company, they may have a requirement for you to hire a legal representative to work directly with them. If you already have one, then the mortgage company can work directly with him or her as a part of the conveyancing law services.
Don’t just look at a price tag. Quality, credibility, regulations, honesty, confidence, advocacy on your behalf, and working to help you understand are all priceless services that any good conveyancing lawyer will want to offer you.
Parfitt Cresswell offers a free initial consultation for anyone seeking legal advice. Our team of experienced lawyers are very knowledgeable about conveyancing services and all aspects of property law. They are dedicated to helping you achieve a smooth transition into your new home.
