If you’re fretting about conveyancing and are not sure where to start, you’ve probably got a heap of questions you’d love answering. Here are four to get you started:
“When should I contact a property solicitor?”
Contact a property solicitor as soon as you know you’re moving. This allows you to contact a number of different providers until you find someone you’re entirely happy with. It also allows you to get yourself used to the conveyancing process and how it works so you don’t worry constantly. Practically, it’s also important because the process takes between 8 and 12 weeks – barring any delays.
“Is there anything I have to do?”
Whilst the majority of the conveyancing process is handled by your conveyancing solicitor, you do have some obligations. One of the most prominent will be signing and returning your contract, which you should do as quickly as possible so as to not slow down the overall process. Talking with your conveyancing solicitor in the early stages is a great way to find out exactly what will be happening and what you’ll need to do – that way there won’t be any surprises along the way.
“How do I know my property solicitor is professional?”
Ensure you instruct a solicitor that’s a member of the Solicitors’ Regulation Authority (SRA). If you hire a licensed conveyancer make sure they’re registered with the Council for Licensed Conveyancers (CLC). These professional organisations help assure high standards amongst their members. You should also ask to see testimonials from previous clients, and expect to receive a client care letter when you first start the conveyancing process. This details a full itemised breakdown of the money you’ll be charged in addition to the company’s policy on complaints and grievances.
“How much will it cost?”
Conveyancing fees depend on the property solicitor you use and the type of property you’re selling. Traditionally solicitors will charge a basic fee for their time and services in addition to disbursements, which are fixed costs incurred and passed onto you. Without disbursements or VAT, expect to pay on average around £570 pounds for conveyancing if you’re both buying and selling a house in the UK. If your property is leasehold, or your case is unorthodox, you will pay more.