Waiting for the conveyancing process to complete can be one of the most stressful parts of a property transaction. While it can feel like a slow, unchangeable process, there are a number of things you can do to both find the right professional and help speed things along.
1. Be Prepared from Day One
The biggest cause of delays in conveyancing is often a lack of preparedness. As a buyer or seller, you can be a huge asset to your conveyancer by having your paperwork ready.
- For Sellers: As soon as you put your property on the market, you can start gathering all the key documents. This includes the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), any building control certificates for alterations, and leasehold information (if applicable). Your conveyancer will thank you, as they can begin work as soon as an offer is accepted.
- For Buyers: Have your mortgage in principle ready and all your identification documents and proof of address handy. The faster you can provide information to your conveyancer, the faster they can get to work.
2. Communication is Key (But Don't Pester!)
While you want to be kept in the loop, constantly chasing your conveyancer with phone calls can actually slow them down. They are often working on multiple cases at once, and every minute spent on the phone is a minute they're not working on your file.
- Agree on a communication plan: When you first instruct your conveyancer, ask how they prefer to communicate. Do they have an online portal you can log into? Will they provide weekly email updates?
- Be clear and concise: When you do communicate, be clear about what you need. Provide all requested information in one go, rather than in multiple emails.
3. Choose a Proactive and Modern Conveyancer
The conveyancing industry has evolved. Many firms now use technology to streamline their processes. An old-school firm that relies on snail mail and phone calls will almost certainly be slower than a modern firm that uses:
- Online case trackers: These systems allow you to log in and see exactly where your case is at any time of day, without needing to call.
- Secure portals for document sharing: Instead of relying on the post, you can securely upload and sign documents online.
- Dedicated case managers: While many firms have a central number, a good firm will assign you a specific individual who is responsible for your case. This gives you a clear point of contact and helps to build a more productive working relationship.
4. The Power of a "No Sale, No Fee" Promise
The UK property market can be unpredictable. Chains can collapse for any number of reasons, from a buyer's mortgage falling through to an unexpected survey result. A "no sale, no fee" policy can provide a vital safety net.
- What it means: A no sale, no fee guarantee means that if your property transaction falls through before contracts are exchanged, you will not have to pay your conveyancer's legal fees.
- What it doesn't cover: It's important to remember that this guarantee only applies to the legal fees. You will still be liable for any disbursements that have been paid out on your behalf, such as search fees. However, by protecting you from the main legal cost, it significantly reduces your financial risk.
Finding the Right Firm Made Easy
Trying to find a professional who is both affordable and efficient can feel like a tall order. However, online comparison sites have completely changed the game. They allow you to filter for firms based on their fees, services, and even their reviews.
For a fast, easy, and transparent way to find and compare quotes from a wide panel of UK-regulated conveyancers, visit Conveyancing Hive. They can help you find a professional who is not only a great price but also committed to a smooth and efficient service. By choosing a modern, proactive conveyancer, you can take control of your property transaction and help make it a faster, less stressful experience.
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