Online conveyancing services have grown in popularity during recent years. Particularly in response to the pandemic, where customers could continue the process while also adhering to the relevant safety guidelines.
What may have seemed like a passing trend in the industry has proven to be a modern and forward-thinking solution.
However, there is still plenty of misinformation out there that can be confusing for property buyers. In this article, we will demystify some of the common misconceptions, so you can make an informed decision.
Myth #1 – You will get a better service from your local solicitor
One of the most common misconceptions about online conveyancing is that you will receive a lesser service.
Many high street conveyancers will say the personal service they deliver will result in a better experience.
However, local knowledge is no longer essential, and making appointments to visit your conveyancer can even slow down the process.
With online conveyancing firms, you will never have to visit your conveyancer and the majority of the transaction can be completed from your own home.
The conveyancing industry is currently inundated with transactions, causing communication to falter. The benefit of online services is they often come with a designated customer support team.
They act as an additional level of support and contact during your transaction, so they can focus on you while the conveyancer focuses on the legal work.
Myth #2 – There will be lots of hidden charges
Online conveyancing is often cheaper than the traditional method. However, many believe that this can be too good to be true and are cautious of extra hidden charges.
While it is essential to read the terms and conditions for every quote obtained, many online conveyancing firms work to a fixed legal fee.
This means the standard charges are included in the initial quotation, to inform you of the exact total, upfront. Still, the conveyancing process is not always straightforward and unexpected expenses may be incurred.
However, this is true of conveyancing in general and not only specific to online firms. The key is to compare quotes in detail, ensuring they all adhere to a fixed legal fee and list any disbursements within the quote.
Myth #3 – The conveyancing process takes longer online
Another common myth is that the conveyancing process takes longer with online services.
In reality, removing some of the unnecessary steps in the traditional process can lead to quicker completions.
By communicating via email, phone, and online case-tracking systems, time can be saved from attending lengthy appointments.
Online firms have even developed faster systems to improve the conveyancing process, such as identification checks.
Before, conveyancers and solicitors would request customers to deliver original documentation for them to verify.
This process could take up to two weeks alone. However, new biometric identification software can allow the checks to be completed in minutes, straight from your smartphone or device.
Due to this, online conveyancing solutions can complete transactions quicker on average than traditional firms.
What does this mean for you?
By busting some of the most common myths surrounding online conveyancing, we hope you can make a more informed decision.
Online conveyancing firms have come a long way in a short space of time. They are designed to give a transparent solution that fits your busy daily life.
Consider the facts rather than the fiction and discover that an online conveyancing solution is right for your transaction!
At Home Legal Direct, we pride ourselves on delivering an expert online conveyancing service to every customer. We connect our customers to our vetted panel of industry-regulated conveyancing firms to deliver the highest level of service. If online conveyancing sounds like the best solution for you, contact us to get your free quote now.
Peter Joseph is CEO of Home Legal Direct
