As conveyancers, our role is to manage the legal transfer of ownership from the seller to you. While much of the work takes place behind the scenes, every stage is designed to ensure your new home is legally sound and that there are no issues which could cause complications after you move in. 

Understanding what conveyancing really means can help you feel more confident and prepared as your purchase progresses. 

What Does Conveyancing Involve? 

Conveyancing begins once your offer has been accepted and continues until completion has taken place and your ownership has been registered. 

During this time, we: 

• Review the legal title to confirm the seller has the right to sell 

• Check for restrictions, rights of way, or obligations affecting the property 

• Carry out property searches to identify planning, environmental, or local authority matters 

• Raise enquiries with the seller’s solicitor where clarification is required 

• Prepare and review the contract documentation 

• Manage the transfer of funds on completion 

• Register your ownership once the purchase has finalised 

Although it can appear paperwork-heavy, each step serves a specific purpose in protecting your interests and ensuring the transaction is completed correctly. Experienced conveyancing solicitors make this process far less stressful by handling all the details efficiently. 

How is a Conveyancer different to a Solicitor? 

Both conveyancers and solicitors can handle property transactions, but there are some key differences. 

As conveyancers, we specialise exclusively in property law. This means we focus entirely on the legal process of buying and selling homes, delivering an efficient and streamlined service. Many conveyancers are regulated by the Council for Licensed Conveyancers. 

Solicitors, regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority, are fully qualified lawyers with a broader legal background. In addition to conveyancing, they can advise on more complex legal matters where required. 

At PLS Solicitors, our team is built with both experienced conveyancers and qualified solicitors. This means you benefit from the efficiency of a specialist conveyancing service, alongside the added reassurance that broader legal expertise is on hand whenever needed. The result is a smoother transaction, particularly if unexpected complexities arise. 

Key Stages of Conveyancing Process 

While every property transaction is unique, most conveyancing matters follow the same core structure. 

Instruction 
You formally instruct a conveyancer and provide identification and initial information so legal work can begin without delay. 

Searches and enquiries 
We carry out searches and review the legal documentation in detail. If anything requires clarification, enquiries are raised with the seller’s solicitor. This stage ensures that potential issues are identified early. 

Exchange of contracts 
Once all parties are satisfied and your mortgage offer (if applicable) is in place, contracts are exchanged. At this point, the transaction becomes legally binding and a completion date is agreed upon. 

Completion 
On completion day, funds are transferred, and the keys are released. This is when you can move into your new home. 

Registration 
Following completion, we register your ownership and any mortgage with the Land Registry, finalising the legal process. 

How Long Does Conveyancing Take? 

There’s no fixed timeline for conveyancing. Some transactions are completed within a few weeks, while others take longer, depending on: 

• Property chains 

• Mortgage approvals 

• Search delays 

• Complexity of the legal title 

A proactive conveyancer will keep things moving and update you regularly to minimise delays wherever possible. 

Why Conveyancing Matters?

Conveyancing is not simply an administrative requirement. It provides legal protection and certainty at a significant financial milestone. 

The process ensures: 

• The seller has the legal right to transfer ownership 

• There are no undisclosed restrictions or liabilities attached to the property 

• Contracts accurately reflect what has been agreed 

• Your ownership is formally and correctly recorded 

Without these safeguards, buyers could unknowingly take on legal or financial risks. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Conveyancing in the UK 

Still have questions? Explore more detailed guidance on our full conveyancing FAQs, where our experts cover everything you need to know. 

Let’s Make Your Move Stress-Free 

If you’re ready to get started, our friendly team at PLS Solicitors is here to help. We’ll explain everything in plain English, keep you updated at every step, and make sure your first home purchase goes as smoothly as possible. 

If you have any further questions, get in touch with us today and let’s make your move stress-free and straightforward. 

The post What is Conveyancing? A Clear Guide for Homebuyers appeared first on PLS Solicitors.

Key Conveyancing Costs

• Basic Legal Fees: Typically charged for handling the transaction.
• Search Fees: Cover local authority, environmental, and water searches.
• Leasehold-Specific Costs: These include fees for:
  • Notice of Transfer
  • Notice of Charge
  • Deed of Covenant
  • Certificate of Compliance
  • New Share Certificate

The core of conveyancing costs includes the legal fees for handling the transaction and the costs associated with property searches. Legal fees cover the work your solicitor undertakes to manage contracts, liaise with other parties, and oversee the completion process. Search fees, on the other hand, include checks with local authorities, water companies, and environmental agencies to identify any issues affecting the property. These are essential steps to ensure your purchase is secure.

For leasehold properties, additional charges often apply. For example, you may encounter fees for a Notice of Transfer or Notice of Charge, particularly if the property involves a mortgage. Deeds of Covenant and Certificates of Compliance are other common requirements that involve additional costs. These fees can vary depending on the specifics of the lease.

It’s also worth noting that additional expenses, such as ground rent or service charges, might be part of your ongoing costs as a leaseholder. These details will be outlined in the lease documents, which your conveyancer will review thoroughly to provide clarity.

Transparency is vital when it comes to legal fees. While initial quotes can provide a rough estimate, unforeseen complications can result in extra charges. Choosing a conveyancing firm like PLS ensures you’re kept informed about all costs from the outset, giving you peace of mind throughout the transaction.

At PLS we are a modern, technology-driven law firm, making the conveyancing process as smooth and efficient as possible.

Prefer a personal touch?

There’s always someone available at the other end of the phone to answer your questions. Plus, even if your conveyancer is away, our flexible team is fully informed and ready to assist with your case at any time.

Get in touch with us today to experience seamless service and expert legal advice for your property sale!

The post Breaking Down Residential Conveyancing Fees appeared first on PLS Solicitors.

The UK property market is in a state of transition, with developing economic conditions and market trends creating a dynamic environment for property transactions. Despite any challenges, there are several positive aspects to consider, especially when it comes to choosing your Conveyancer.

1. Stabilising Interest Rates Create Opportunities

With recent fluctuations in interest rates starting to stabilise, the property market is gaining clarity. This stability provides both buyers and sellers with a more predictable environment. For buyers, this means more manageable mortgage rates and clearer financial planning. For sellers, it offers a steadier market in which to price and sell their properties. Conveyancers are pivotal in navigating these conditions, helping clients make informed decisions and secure favourable outcomes.

2. Enhanced Digital Tools Streamline Transactions

Advancements in technology have significantly improved the conveyancing process. Digital tools and platforms make it easier to manage property transactions, from virtual property tours to electronic document submissions. These innovations reduce the time and effort required for property deals, ensuring a more efficient and transparent process. Conveyancers are increasingly leveraging these tools to provide faster, more effective service, enhancing the overall client experience.

3. Increased Focus on Customer Service

As the property market becomes more competitive, conveyancing firms are placing a greater emphasis on exceptional customer service. Personalised support and clear communication are now standard practices, ensuring clients feel informed and confident throughout the transaction. Whether you’re buying or selling, the dedication of conveyancers to providing tailored advice and support can have a significant impact on how you feel on your property journey.

4. Opportunities for First-Time Buyers

The current market conditions are favourable for first-time buyers. With government initiatives and schemes designed to assist new buyers, such as the First Homes Scheme and Shared Ownership, there are more opportunities than ever to get onto the property ladder. Conveyancers play a crucial role in guiding first-time buyers through the complexities of the legal process, ensuring they make informed choices.

5. Resilience of the Property Market

Despite economic fluctuations, the UK property market has demonstrated remarkable resilience. The demand for homes remains strong, and property values have shown stability in many areas. This resilience offers a positive outlook for both buyers and sellers. Working with a skilled conveyancer ensures that you can take advantage of this stability, navigate any potential challenges, and achieve your property goals with confidence.

6. Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Properties

The growing interest in eco-friendly and sustainable properties is shaping the market positively. Buyers are increasingly seeking homes with green certifications and energy-efficient features. Conveyancers are adapting to these trends by gaining expertise in the nuances of eco-friendly property transactions, helping clients navigate the specific requirements and benefits of these properties.

In the current climate, the UK property market is presenting a range of positive opportunities for buyers and sellers. With stabilising interest rates, advanced digital tools, enhanced customer service, and a focus on sustainability, the property market is on the up. Choosing a skilled conveyancer ensures that you can make the most of these opportunities, navigate the property market with ease, and achieve your property goals with confidence.

For expert guidance and support in your property transactions get in touch with our award-winning team today!

The post Navigating the UK Property Market: Why Now is a Great Time for Conveyancing appeared first on PLS Solicitors.

By Daniel Hickey, Managing Director

This year started with positive news on interest rates, largely due to the many lenders becoming competitive in their terms. But a recent announcement that the UK is now in recession potentially signals a slow down to the early spring market. The reality is that the property industry is far from doom and gloom.

Property portal Rightmove started the year by announcing that house prices saw the biggest January rise since 2020 indicating that people selling their properties could fetch a high price compared to previous months and years. With 15% increase of new properties coming to the market, there is also more options for buyers in the market.

The average asking price for properties rose nationally by 1.3%. Sellers may find this encouraging, as it suggests that they could command higher prices for their properties.

Despite the initial rise in prices typically seen in the new year, it’s suggested that prices should only be around 1% lower by the end of the year. This implies a degree of stability in the market and suggests that any initial price inflation may not be sustained.

Last Wednesday the Chancellor delivered his spring budget, only three and a half months after his autumn statement. In relation to property taxes we saw the abolition of furnished holiday letting relief and the multiple dwellings relief on Stamp Duty Land Tax and a change to Capital Gains tax on property disposals, which is designed to draw in more revenue

Most residential property sales involve people’s main homes, which are eligible for Private Residence Relief (PRR) and this relief will continue to apply. But for where Capital Gains Tax (CGT) applies (such as on the sale of second homes, let-out properties, or those developed for profit), the higher rate of CGT goes down to 24%. The lower rate will continue to be taxed at the existing rate of 18%.

In summary, while property prices may experience some fluctuations during the year, the market appears relatively stable.

After years of uncertainty, it appears to remain an exciting time for the UK property market as more conveyancing firms realise the need for technology to transform processes resulting in a better experience for conveyancer, customer and stakeholder. Here at PLS this has always been a priority with our in-house team of developers continuously working improve our systems. Customer and Introducer portals streamline the back and forth of buying and selling properties by digitising key aspects of the process. This has led to improved efficiency and productivity within PLS, reducing administrative burdens.

The post The Economics of the Property Market and What Might Happen Next appeared first on PLS Solicitors.

Why is this important?

Between June 2020-2021 alone, the UK home move transactions were above 450,000. The residential property sector is one of the major contributors to the construction sector, with the UK housing stock hitting a record high of £8.7tn in 2022.

To ensure the industry keeps moving, we must invest in the future of conveyancing – people, talent, and technologies so that home movers can experience efficiencies in fees and excellent customer service.

This week, we spoke to some of our team posing some questions so that they can share their own insights.

What made you choose a career in conveyancing?

“I once had a conversation with a senior barrister who advised that the area of law is not chosen by you but the area of law chooses you and so right they were. 17 years ago I stepped into my first role as an office junior in a conveyancing practice and I have not looked back since. I have worked hard and progressed to where I am now.” – Adrienne Steatham, Business Development & Conveyancing Project Manager

What advice would you give to someone who is interested in joining the conveyancing industry?

“Do it! Not only will you gain legal and technical experience but you will also gain customer service and relationship-building skills too. You will never be bored, there is always something to do and the end result is extremely rewarding.” – Sian Jones, New Build Manager

Who in the industry inspires you?

“Sian Jones and Aash Dhand – I have worked closely alongside these 2 for almost 7 years now and their ambition and dedication to the firm always inspire me to be at my best and improve my own skill set as much as I can. The compassion and understanding they have for staff make me want to strive to be an amazing support system and role model for my team.” – Ashleigh Murphy, Licensed Conveyancer & Assistant New Build Team Manager

What are the challenges you and your team face on a day-to-day basis and how do you work together to overcome them?

“Buying a house is one of the most stressful things you can do in life. Our clients are so desperate to be in their new home and for the journey to run smoothly. There are things that can go wrong but it’s our job to ensure that doesn’t happen. It really helped when we recently developed a Client Relationship Team, headed up by my colleague Ella Boothroyd. Their job is to act as the clients “buddy” and guide them through the journey, separately from the legal team. They will provide outbound calls at key points in the process to ensure our clients understand everything and are not overwhelmed. Our online reviews and and internal client perception ratings have increased since we started providing this service, so it really seems to be working!” – Sian Jones, New Build Manager

What is the best part about being a conveyancer? / BD / Senior Manager in Conveyancing?

“The best part about working in Conveyancing and Business Development is the relationships which you create throughout the whole of the transaction.  This could be with developers, estate agents, mortgage brokers or other solicitors.  The conversations had between these parties are the reason that the industry has evolved as much as it has.  Working in conveyancing is rewarding by providing clients with 5* service and helping them to achieve their dream by working closely with the relationships created over the years and understanding that we are all in it together and working together will only ensure a smoother transaction.” – Adrienne Steatham, Business Development & Conveyancing Project Manager

The post National Conveyancing Week appeared first on PLS Solicitors.

At the Growth Plan statement on Friday 23 September 2022 the Chancellor announced changes to the SDLT in England and Northern Ireland. 

The SDLT-free threshold is being raised from £125,000 to £250,000 – and for first-time buyers (FTBs) it will rise from £300,000 to £425,000. The value of properties upon which FTBs can claim relief will also increase from £500,000 to £625,000.

These changes are live from 23^rd September. 

This is a huge step to helping first-time buyers get on the property ladder, especially during the extreme fuel and gas price inflation. In fact, Kwarteng confirmed these steps will take 200,000 more people out of paying stamp duty altogether.

Example

In October 2022 you buy a house for £295,000. The SDLT you owe will be calculated as follows:

• 0% on the first £250,000 = £0
• 5% on the final £45,000 = £2,250
• total SDLT = £2,250

First-time buyers

FTBs will get a relief and will pay less or no tax if both the following apply:

• They and anyone they are buying with, are first-time buyers
• The purchase price is £625,000 or less

FTBs are eligible if all purchasers are first-time buyers.

Example

You are a first-time buyer and purchase a property for £500,000. The SDLT you owe will be calculated as:

• 0% on the first £425,000 = £0
• 5% on the remaining £75,000 = £3,750
• total SDLT = £3,750

The rules have not changed for higher rate taxpayers and clients will need to pay 3% on top of SDLT rates if buying a new residential property if it means they will own more than one.

This is obviously good news for first-time buyers and will have very beneficial changes for many property buyers as the rate thresholds have increased across the board.

Since COVID we have now seen three very significant changes to SDLT. In both previous “Stamp Duty Holidays” we saw a real surge in the housing market in terms of record numbers of sales and purchases. Many conveyancing firms like PLS saw huge increased volumes in sales and purchases during and leading up to the cut offs of those two SDLT holidays. Whether such numbers in sales and purchases would have happened anyway, albeit over longer periods instead of all happening at once in concentrated peaks, is difficult to tell. But we do know that, in the last two years, the housing market industry has remained as strong as it has ever been, in terms of volumes and of house prices. We can be sure that was down at least in part to the tax reductions. Other factors may well have come from the effects of COVID, including people wanting more space, or just a change, or having more spare cash saved from a reduction in leisure activities or travel. Today’s news is clear evidence that the Government regards the previous SDLT cuts as an effective means of keeping the housing market stimulated.   

When an immediate change like this is made, whilst it is great news for buyers, there is always a bit of a strain on our conveyancers. At PLS we will be spending a lot of today re-calculating our SDLT sums and refunding some lucky clients. We will then spend most of the weekend re-calculating our quotes and client completion statements and getting as much information out to our clients to let them know of the changes. It will be a long weekend for us – but we know it will all be very positive for many of our clients. 

How can PLS help?

Our experts can give you advice and support on what these changes mean to you and your home buying plans, contact us to have your questions answered.

You can also use our Stamp Duty calculator to find out how much you have to pay but remember as a first-time buyer, you will not pay any SDLT on your first £425,000!

The post What the mini-budget stamp duty changes mean for you appeared first on PLS Solicitors.

Months of hard work, collaboration and strategising have gone into the creation of the Academy, which will open its doors at the beginning of July with 7 new team members.

“Our vision is to give people the skills they need to succeed in the fast-moving conveyancing industry” explained Sarah Millican, Head of HR at PLS, who spearheaded the project along with Becca Culley, HR Business Partner. 

“A lot of thoughtful planning has gone into the training schedule which has been created by Laura Sayers who will oversee the Academy,” continued Sarah, “it’s a really in-depth and well-structured training programme that offers people a holistic education on the conveyancing process.”

Successful candidates will join the academy as Legal Administrators and throughout the 18 month course will experience working in different areas of the PLS business, including placements in our support teams and legal teams. They will also attend bespoke classroom training modules which will be delivered by PLS’s own in-house trainers.

Giving Back to the Community and Nurturing New Talent

The academy programme has been built with inclusivity in mind. There are opportunities for everyone and you don’t need formal qualifications to apply.

“We want to make a positive difference in our community and help job seekers discover rewarding long-term careers. Whether you have a keen interest in conveyancing or are a complete beginner, there’s something for you at the Academy,” explained Becca.

Discussing the background of the PLS Training Academy, Sarah shared, “We’ve found that many companies take a siloed approach to conveyancing. People join one department and are not taught how their role fits into the overall business. We want to change that by giving people the chance to learn about the entire conveyancing process in a supportive, nurturing and collaborative environment.”

While the PLS Training Academy emphasises developing the next generation of conveyancing talent, the firm is committed to taking a flexible, people-centric approach.

“There are many aspects to conveyancing beyond the actual legal work,” said Becca. “We hope that, by empowering people to experience different departments, we can identify roles within PLS that best suit their strengths.” 

Investing in the Future: Our People

As well as welcoming new applicants, the PLS Training Academy is part of a comprehensive internal initiative focused on giving back to the talented team at PLS. 

“We are an award-winning company because of our people.” Sarah shared, “We understand the importance of investing in learning and development. It’s something we’ve looked at a lot internally – and formalising our approach through the PLS Training Academy felt like a natural leap forward.”

“Anyone in the business can take modules from the Academy,” continued Becca. “We ultimately want to give back to our people – both new recruits and our amazing team – by supporting their personal and professional development.” 

Learn More About the PLS Training Academy Today!

With a fantastic family culture and an underlying belief in nurturing everyone’s individuality, the launch of the PLS Training Academy is a wonderful opportunity to hop on the career ladder at an award-winning, innovative conveyancing firm. 

Visit our careers page to find out more about life at PLS.

The post Introducing the PLS Training Academy! appeared first on PLS Solicitors.

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During lockdown it was clear that customers became more anxious, particularly around issues of whether their mortgage offers would last before their move or whether they could extend their mortgage offer!

Therefore, so that our customers can be prepared, we have revised our moving home checklist to include some of the risks to look out for from agreeing a mortgage in principle to a covid clean or giving notice on rented accommodation!

The number 1 rule: Try to agree a mortgage in principle

Before you have found your new home, you should begin the process of agreeing a mortgage in principle. These are often valid for 3-6 months and will help reduce delays later. Sellers prefer buyers who have their mortgage in place so there is less of a likelihood that a sale will fall through and some estate agents will want to see a mortgage in principle before arranging socially distant viewings in light of COVID-19.

If you have a mortgage in principle and your circumstances have changed, e.g. redundancies, you will need to inform the lender or this could be considered mortgage fraud.

3 months before your move

• After you have had an offer accepted, you should appoint your conveyancer to manage the legal aspects of the transaction. People often underestimate the time this can take, so early action is advisable. Ask your conveyancer what average timings they are currently working to, and see if they have any digital ways to speed up the service so you’re not relying on the postal service.
  
• You should also appoint your surveyor. You will need to liaise with your mortgage lender as they may wish to appoint a surveyor who is on the approved list.
  
• If you are in rented accommodation, inform your landlord of your intended moving date. But do not serve notice on your landlord until your legal advisor confirms that it is sensible to do so. Your legal advisor is responsible for the conveyancing process and will discuss completion dates with you when the time is right. Serving notice on your rented accommodation too early may leave you homeless however, there are recent restrictions brought in during the coronavirus crisis that mean landlords cannot evict you. Shelter has more information if this is a concern.
  
• Obtain quotes for removal companies. Consider whether they can practice socially distancing measures where applicable.
  
• Ensure that your insurance company provides cover particularly for valuable items during the move.  If not, ensure that your removal company provides adequate insurance.
  
• Prepare an inventory to ensure nothing goes astray during the move. And ensure that the new property and any items of concern are cleaned according to NHS guidelines.
  
• Sort through the contents of your home to get rid of what you don’t want or need. The less you take, the lower the cost of the removal will be. Check to see if charity shops and refuse sites are open first, and whether there are any further restrictions.
  
• Record all important contact details and phone numbers that you may need.
  
• If this is a move associated with your job, check with your employer as to whether they are going to cover any of the costs of the move. If currently furloughed, check that you are following the specific rules, especially around timings for flexible working.

4 weeks before your move

• Check whether your removal company is going to supply packing material.
  
• Start liaising with your conveyancer to discuss the moving date.  But remember to be led by them. They will give you a realistic view of the likely completion date and whether it has been adversely affected by COVID-19. Liaise with your landlord for a flexible rolling contract in case of any delays.
  
• Arrange insurance cover for the new house to start from exchange of contracts. Your conveyancer should advise you when to put cover in place. This will be your responsibility from exchange so make sure you get cover in time however, remain flexible where possible if there are delays in exchanging due to COVID-19.

2 weeks before your move

• Liaise with utility companies to inform them of the move date. Ask for their policy in the event that these dates have to be moved at short notice due to coronavirus hold ups.
  
• Get rid of any rubbish or unwanted items from sheds, cupboards, attics and cellars. You must sell with vacant possession unless your sales contract stipulates otherwise, and only leave items that you have included in your sales inventory known as the Fixtures Fittings and Contents form. Check with your local household refuse website to make sure it is open and has no current exemptions.

1 week before your move

• Finish packing and labelling boxes with the name of the room for the new house.
  
• Confirm with your removal company that the move date is still as planned, and they understand where the new house is and whether there are any travel restrictions. Inform neighbours where possible if you will be unable to follow social distancing guidelines.
  
• The time of the move cannot be guaranteed. It depends on the time the seller’s lawyers receive the sale monies. This can be later in the afternoon on the day of the move. So, it is a good idea to check with your removal company how long they will stay at the property. It may be wise to consider delayed completion insurance and if there are any COVID-19 exemptions.
  
• Cancel subscriptions, prepare change of address letters for banks, HMRC, utility companies, your employers, and set up a forwarding address for post with the post office. If you plan on working from your new home, check to see if there are any allowances that could help you.

Moving Day

• Pack your overnight suitcase ensuring you have all you will need on arrival.
  
• Ensure all boxes have their room destination.
  
• Check the house you are leaving is fully emptied and cleaned to COVID-19 standards.
  
• Record all utility meter readings and take an image on your phone for later review.
  
• Lock all windows, doors and make sure the house is secure.
  
• Make arrangements for the handover of keys. This may not be able to happen in person due to social distancing so discuss with your conveyancer or estate agent how this will occur.
  
• Make sure you understand how keys for the new house will be handed to you.
  
• Check in with your estate agent and conveyancer on the morning of completion to see how things are going on the legal side of things and double check in relation to the handover of keys.
  
• Do not hand over your keys on your sale until your conveyancer has advised you to do so.

To download your own checklist, click on the PDF link below.

https://bit.ly/3dIyOQh

The post The new home move checklist: Moving home during COVID19 requires more planning! appeared first on PLS Solicitors.

Residential conveyancers are at the coal face of any house move transaction, liaising and negotiating with all the parties in the process – from the mortgage adviser to the estate agent and the other party’s solicitors. The critical success factor is that your solicitor is maintaining contact with the vendor and all of those who are required to make your home move possible.

Here are 6 things you need to know about how to choose the right solicitor.

1: Find your solicitor early on

Having your solicitor lined up and ready to go comes with a lot of perks! Finding a solicitor early in the process allows them to do all the prep work in advance, including applying for deeds and title documents which could take weeks on more complex transactions such as unregistered and/or leasehold properties.  

For new build properties, there are often 28 day exchange terms and your solicitor will need to be experienced in working to these tight timescales imposed by some housebuilders.

In essence, having your solicitor appointed early, reduces the risk of any circumstances changing whilst you look for a solicitor.

2: Ask for recommendations

Ask your estate agent, housebuilder or mortgage adviser for a recommendation or even friends and family who have used a solicitor in the past.

Make sure to read the reviews! Whilst home move processes are not always smooth and some reviews may be negative, real client experiences will paint a picture of how the solicitor works in a broader sense, this will help you filter out the good from the bad.  You should look for solicitors who have more than a 4* status [https://uk.trustpilot.com/review/www.pls-solicitors.co.uk]

We would advise not to always go with the first option and you don’t have to choose a solicitor which is local! Technology has moved on so much that many customers are undertaking their transactions from home without having visited their solicitor. Prepare an advantages and disadvantages list, but most of all, check them out (see point 4) and call them to see if they appear to be a professional organisation.

3: Ask for a quote

Find out how much it will cost and ask for a full breakdown. This will include things such Stamp Duty (otherwise known as SDLT [https://www.gov.uk/stamp-duty-land-tax/residential-property-rates]), and Registry fees [https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/land-registry] and Local Authority search costs. Find out how much your conveyancer charges for their work. Is it by the hour or can you agree a fixed fee? Whilst discussing this, check they have a secure method of making payments.

4: Check them out

An important part of your research.

• Is this solicitor accredited? Especially by the CQS.
• Are they Regulated? Either by SRA or CLC. Regulation will ensure that if something goes wrong you will be protected. [https://www.thersa.org/]
• Do they have a portal to allow full case transparency? [/https://portal.pls-solicitors.co.uk/login/]
• Are there at least 2 or more partners in the company? [https://www.pls-solicitors.co.uk/meet-the-team/]
• Can they undertake sale or purchase? Make sure they are able to do exactly what you need them to do.
• Are they on all mortgage lender panels?
• Do they have the necessary expertise to deal with HTB, HTB ISA and other government schemes?

5: Get to know your solicitor

Knowing that your solicitor will be able to do what you need them to do is almost as important as having a solicitor in the first place. It is important to find out if you have a dedicated case handler, and who will take over if they fall ill or go on holiday.

Find out their experience. How many transactions have they undertaken? Have they ever worked on a case like your own? Knowing this information will help you find the solicitor that suits your needs.

6: Agree communication terms!

Discuss how often you want to hear from each other. Some solicitors will want to inform you immediately after each step of the way, whereas other may want to update you every few days with their progress. Decide what would suit you.

During the Exchange of Contracts process, you should be speaking to your solicitor at least once a week. If they are not calling you – you should call them!

It may be that your solicitors utilise advanced technology which provides you with regular automatic updates [https://portal.pls-solicitors.co.uk/login/]

Decide how you would like to be contacted and then discuss that with your solicitor. Some like to stick to phone calls, many prefer email communication and some favour face-to-face interaction – or during lockdown, Zoom calls!

Choosing a solicitor can be daunting but if you put the time and research in to find the right one, everything else should run smoothly!

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