Real estate property transactions are generally overwhelming, especially if you lack the knowledge and experience in handling them. By hiring a conveyancer, you can have peace of mind knowing you have a professional working by your side who knows how to handle all the legal aspects of buying or selling a property for you.
Choosing the right conveyancer can seem like picking a needle out of the haystack. It’s because the conveyancing industry is notorious for providing second-rate service for premium rates.
Finding a reliable conveyancer that offers quality services at reasonable prices can be tough, but you can have an easier time buying or selling your property using this guide. Read the information below to learn more on how to select the right conveyancer wisely.
What Makes an Excellent Conveyancer?
Offers a client care letter upfront
All excellent conveyancers provide client care letters to their clients, containing a breakdown of conveyancing fees and a detailed description of the service they will provide to ensure they are transparent from the very beginning.
If you are handed a client care letter that lacks important details, especially the cost, choose another conveyancer. Commit only to the conveyancing service when you sign and give back the letter.
Technologically advanced
Technological advancements make business operations more efficient. Look for a conveyancer who uses technology to their advantage. For instance, they should use online case tracking to record all your transactions on a dedicated website with a secure login process. This way, you can monitor the progress of your case at any time. Working with a firm that uses the latest technology can help you save time and money.
Operates on a no completion, no fee basis
No completion, no fee means that your conveyancer guarantees that if the sale of your property does not reach completion, you don’t have to pay any legal fees. This is important because one out of three property sales fail.
Operates on a fixed fee guarantee basis
Conveyancers used to charge hourly, which causes bills to escalate out of control. To get your money’s worth and budget accurately, hire a conveyancer who offers a fixed fee guarantee. Doing this assures you that you are protected even if you run into unexpected problems.
Specialises in residential conveyancing
Experience is the most important factor to consider when looking for a conveyancer. You may partner with professionals specialising in divorce, employment, or commercial property law, but they may not provide the best residential conveyancing service. Opt for those who have the necessary knowledge, skills, and experience in residential conveyancing or at least have a specialist conveyancing department to ensure they can help you with your case.
Operates extended opening hours
The property buying or selling process can seem confusing, especially if you are a first-time buyer or seller. Working with a conveyancer who communicates well with you should be your top priority.
Many conveyancers have a typical 9-to-5 business schedule, but if you want to act quickly on your legal issue, it’s best to choose a firm that can be contacted outside of office hours. Avoid hiring conveyancers you have to chase because they will only bring you unnecessary stress and hassle. Instead, seek good conveyancers who will guide you through every step of the way.
Should I Hire Local Conveyancers?
Many clients believe that local knowledge is an essential part of being an exceptional conveyancer, but this is just a misconception. Contrary to popular belief, distance doesn’t matter at all, and you have no reason to meet with your conveyancer during a sale.
Therefore, don’t limit yourself to local conveyancers. Feel free to look around and search for a specialist who can offer you the best service you need within your budget. On the other hand, you may opt for a conveyancer near you who can easily visit the property if your transaction involves altering existing boundaries or creating new rights of way.
Is It Advisable to Work With a Conveyancer Recommended by My Estate Agent?
Recommendations are generally helpful, but when choosing your conveyancing service provider, be wary of those suggested by your real estate agent. Most of the time, they may be serving their best interests and not yours. They establish a profitable relationship by partnering with conveyancers and negotiating their referral fees.
How Much Does Conveyancing Cost?
There is no average conveyancing fee because there are many factors that make the overall cost. In general, conveyancing rates vary depending on the value of the property you want to buy. The breakdown of the total conveyancing costs usually include:
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Bankruptcy search fee
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Disbursements
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Local authority searches fees
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Land registration fee
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Online ID verification
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Registration of title
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Solicitors’ fees
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VAT at 20 per cent
What Are the Common Pitfalls When Looking for the Right Conveyancer?
Missing hidden costs
Don’t get overly excited about cheap conveyancing quotes. Some have missing hidden costs, so be vigilant. To avoid falling victim to conveyancers taking advantage of their clients’ inexperience with real estate transactions, do your research and be aware of the final conveyancer cost. In addition, be wary of rates that don’t fully itemise all charges and avoid conveyancers who charge hourly.
Delays on paperwork
Expect to deal with a lot of paperwork during the conveyancing process. If you end up hiring a conveyancer who fails to submit the right documents on time, they can cause considerable delays. You can prevent this problem by using online case tracking and other modern conveyancing practices. This way, you can access up-to-date information at any time.
Communication problems
Aside from the late submission of paperwork, the process can get delayed when your conveyancer is difficult to get hold of. You may have a hard time getting your questions answered or tracking the progress of your case. This can be the case with conveyancers who have additional work aside from conveyancing. To ensure better communication, prefer office-based conveyancers who can focus fully on your case.
Is It Worthwhile to Choose a Conveyancer With the Cheapest Fee?
Never choose a conveyancer based solely on cost. This is because conveyancers who offer the cheapest rates are rarely the best. In fact, some of them are usually the busiest and the most difficult to contact.
Don’t fall into the trap of saving money on conveyancing fees. Working with conveyancers like them won’t help you deal with your real estate transaction effectively, and they will make the process even more lengthy and stressful.
Conclusion
Choosing a conveyancer may seem as complicated as the real estate transaction itself. However, once you finally find the right person to work with, you are assured of having a hassle-free property buying or selling experience. Remember all the information stated in this guide so you can have an easier time looking for the right professional who can make the entire process as stress-free and error-free as possible.
Whether you are buying, selling, or remortgaging a house, you can use our conveyancing calculator to compare conveyancing quotes instantly. At Conveyancing Calculator, we offer a technology that lets you access prices directly from UK-based conveyancers. Get a quote today!
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