When you have agreed to buy a property, you will be thinking about legal representation. But who would be best to complete the purchase? A conveyancer or a solicitor?

Image Credit

Solicitor

A solicitor can complete the conveyancing. However, it is worth noting that a solicitor, who is regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority, can advise on many aspects of the law, not just conveyancing, so your legal costs may increase if you use a solicitor to finalise your property purchase.

Conveyancer

A conveyancer can complete the conveyancing and is regulated by the Council for Licensed Conveyancing. Conveyancing companies such as Sam Conveyancing only deal in property purchase, so may be considerably more affordable than a solicitor.

Image Credit

Reasons to Use a Solicitor

If the purchase of the property could have some difficult aspects, such as the couple selling their property are separating or there are disputes regarding boundaries or other legal issues, then in may be worth your while engaging a solicitor, as they can advise on many aspects of the law.

Downsides to Using a Solicitor

Many solicitors work in small practices, so if they are on holiday, there might be a delay in the completion. It may also be that there are other, more urgent cases that will take precedence over a conveyancing case, pushing your conveyancing lower down on their list. You may also have to visit the solicitor in person to verify your identity, which could be inconvenient for you.

How to Choose Between a Solicitor or Conveyancer

If your purchase is straightforward, then your best choice would be a conveyancer. A conveyancer can do all the same work as a solicitor, and they will often charge you a lower rate. It is always recommended to look at customer reviews before you engage a solicitor or a conveyancer. Check to see what their completion times are and if there are negative reviews. Try looking at the Homeowners Alliance website to search for the best conveyancing solicitors and conveyancers in your area.

What About an Estate Agency’s Recommendation?

Estate agents often earn a commission if they recommend a firm of solicitors or conveyancers, which may add more to your bill.

The conveyancing process demands a lot of legal paperwork and time, so make sure that your solicitor or conveyancer has all the information they need to avoid unnecessary delays. Make sure you fully understand what you are paying for and that there are no hidden charges, and soon you will be on your way to moving into that new property.