How to choose a solicitor for your home purchase
So, you’re buying your first home – congratulations! Now, you need to find a solicitor to assist you in the conveyancing process. But with so many options, how do you decide who to appoint?
In this blog, we’re detailing the things to consider when choosing a conveyancing solicitor.
Check they’re on your lender’s approved panel
Mortgage lenders will only release funds if their legal requirements are met. Therefore, lenders have their own approved panel of solicitors. Your mortgage broker will be able to find out if your solicitor is on your lender’s panel.
If you’re buying a Shared Ownership home, rest assured that all of the firms on Share to Buy’s solicitor and conveyancing panel are approved by lenders that offer Shared Ownership mortgages.
Specialist expertise
The nuances of affordable homeownership and buying schemes require specialist knowledge of the legal matters to ensure the transaction goes smoothly. This is why, if you’re purchasing a leasehold property or buying through a scheme like Shared Ownership, it’s important to appoint a solicitor with the relevant expertise.
Customer reviews
Online review sites like Trustpilot publish unbiased, verified reviews from previous customers, providing an authentic representation of the firm’s customer service. Reading about the experiences of others can help you make an informed decision about whether to appoint a particular solicitor, and what you can expect if you do.
Compare quotes
It can be tempting to go for the cheapest option, especially if you’re working with a tight budget, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the best one for you. After all, the quote that’s the cheapest at face value could have hidden costs. That’s why it’s important to shop around and get quotes from different firms to see how much they charge for their services, and what’s included in the fee.
Get recommendations
Trusted friends and family members can be a viable source of recommendations if they’ve previously experienced a service that you’re in the market for. When it comes to conveyancing solicitors, they may have had a five-star experience with a firm that specialises in exactly what you need, such as expertise in leasehold properties.
Consider geography
You don’t have to choose a local solicitor, but it can be beneficial. They can have better knowledge of the area you’re buying in, such as environmental risks like flooding, and local policy and development plans.
Find a conveyancing solicitor with Share to Buy
Share to Buy is the country’s leading property portal dedicated to affordable homeownership and buying schemes – such as Shared Ownership and Rent to Buy – designed to help you onto the property ladder. Whichever scheme you choose, our panel of solicitors can assist you with the conveyancing process. It features firms with specialist knowledge of affordable homeownership schemes and the various nuances regarding legal matters.
Explore the panel to contact firms, get quotes and find your conveyancing solicitor.
Why not join us for one of our Expert Days? These free virtual events give you the opportunity to book short one-to-one appointments with trusted property professionals, including solicitors and conveyancers. You can expect:
- Honest, straightforward answers to your questions.
- Guidance tailored to your circumstances.
- A supportive, no-pressure discussion.
- Clear next steps or points to consider after the session.
There’s no obligation to proceed with any services – the focus is on helping you understand your options.
Learn more about our Expert Days here.
