The journey to find your next property can be a long and challenging one. When you reach the end of your search and your offer is accepted, it feels like a dream come true.
However, many purchasers, especially first-time buyers, are surprised to learn the hard work starts after an offer is accepted.
Both sides must instruct a conveyancer, if they have not done so already, to undertake the legal work. The right conveyancing firm is often key to the transaction’s success.
Speed
The conveyancing process is full of traditional practices, but online conveyancing networks work differently to deliver faster transactions.
By modernising the methods that take longer than necessary, a good conveyancing network will save time on transactions.
For example, a traditional firm can take approximately two weeks to carry out its identity and anti-money laundering (AML) checks. This can be done in just a few minutes with an online conveyancing network.
By also communicating over email, telephone, and the post, time can also be saved on lengthy face-to-face appointments.
Online portals
An online conveyancing network will have multiple firms on their panel to assign their client’s cases to. Many of these conveyancers will have online portals for customers to access information on their transactions.
This can include receiving communications, getting updates on their cases, and even uploading documents. Instead of waiting for an appointment or getting through on the phone, online portals deliver updates to customers in real-time. The convenience of an online portal fits in with busy work schedules, evenings, and weekends.
Fixed legal fee quotations
When shopping around for a conveyancer, it is vital to check the small print on all quotations. Many firms out there will not include all the fees in your quotation for a reason – to appear more competitive.
However, an online conveyancing network will often provide fixed legal fee quotations.
This means all the standard fees are included unless otherwise stated. This provides you with the exact cost of the legal work before you decide to instruct. They may also provide optional extras, such as homebuyer’s protection insurance, to give you added peace of mind.
Customer support team
The conveyancing process can be intimidating for many home-movers, no matter their experience. With legal jargon to decipher and curveballs along the way, it is usual to have questions.
An online conveyancing network can support and guide you throughout your transaction with its own customer support team.
While the conveyancer focuses on the legal work, the network’s support team can explain the process, answer questions, and even assist you in getting updates.
Especially if you are feeling nervous, an online conveyancing network can provide an additional layer of support that you would not get from a high street solicitor.
Peter Joseph is CEO of Home Legal Direct
