Levels of service, experience, and expertise can range dramatically depending on who you choose, with any service provider.
When you move home you will be asked to choose a solicitor to handle the legal work. To maximise your chances of securing a highly experienced and efficient law firm, you should ensure that your property lawyer can reassure you that they will commit to provide the best possible service. From our experience, momentum can be built on a sale and purchase legal work by following these general principles
Sale
Issue the contract and Land Registry title documents within 24 hours of being instructed.
Obtain a mortgage redemption statement at the outset of the sale to ensure the sellers know the balance due to redeem their mortgage.
Forward the buyer’s enquiries to the seller or obtain telephone replies as soon as possible.
Ask the seller to sign all required legal documents as soon as the buyer’s lawyer has approved them to prepare for exchange of contracts.
Purchase
Aim to review the legal contract and supporting documents within 48 hours of receipt.
Prepare a report to the buyer in advance of receiving replies to enquiries and search results, to be finalised when all the required information and documentation is in place.
Delays can occur during sale and purchase transactions because a great deal of information is often required via third parties such as surveyors, search providers and mortgage lenders. However, securing an efficient conveyancer is one task you can take better control over, as they are your lawyers, working for you.
What can a buyer or seller do to ensure a more efficient process?
- Sign and return documentation requested by your property lawyer as quickly as possible;
- Prepare your finances in advance. You will need to evidence how you will fund your purchase;
- On a purchase, instruct a surveyor as soon as possible;
- Discuss timescale (i.e. completion dates) from the outset via the Estate Agents so all parties know to work towards a particular date;
- Take an interest in why your Estate Agent is recommending a particular conveyancer to you.
If you are looking for conveyancing services in the South, our expert residential property solicitors based in Salisbury, Southampton, Poole, Bournemouth and Winchester are on hand to provide you with the legal help and guidance you need. Don’t hesitate to contact Partner and Property Solicitor Lucy Spollin on 01202 339006 or contact us here.
