Finding a Solicitor

Normally, the first question you’re asked after making an offer on a property is the name of your solicitor or licenced conveyancer.

Conveyancing is the legal term for transferring ownership of property, whether you are buying or selling.

Ways to find solicitors or conveyancers

There are several ways to find a suitable solicitor or conveyancer. For example, you can:

• Ask your family and friends
• Your Estate Agent might recommend
• A mortgage broker can offer help
• Get on online comparison quote

Legal Fees

Fees for conveyancing can be charged in different ways:

• Fixed Fee
• Hourly Charges

Shop around. Try to get at least three different quotations. Also ask about what’s included, and what services are available. Always make sure you get a cost breakdown. Above all make sure you compare like with like when looking for a solicitor.

Legal Fee Charges should include things like:

• Searches
• Bank Transfer
• Land Registry Fees
• Stamp Duty Costs
• Other Disbursements

Services Provided

How your legal adviser communicates with you is all important. Hopefully, you’ll get a feel for this when shopping around. But, you’ll need to think about:

• What method will they use to communicate with you
• Is it easy for you to contact them
• How will you be kept updated

When things go wrong

Things can go wrong when you’re buying and selling homes. Sadly, small things can be quite frustrating. Unfortunately, there’s always going to be setbacks, some will be minor and some might be major.

Setbacks can include:

• The Seller deciding not to proceed
• Unforthcoming solicitor
• Gazumping
• Valuation Problems
• Mortgage Difficulties