If you want to know who should handle your property purchase, it’s a question that has many people scratching their heads. The answer is not as straightforward as it seems! This blog post will explore the differences between a solicitor and a conveyancer to help you make an informed decision about who should represent you in your property transaction. When it comes to property transactions, both solicitors and conveyancers are regulated by the Law Society. To practise, both must adhere to certain standards and complete regular Continuing Professional Development (CPD).
The key difference between a solicitor and a conveyancer
The main difference between a solicitor and a conveyancer is that a solicitor is also qualified to practise law in other areas, whereas a conveyancer specialises solely in property law. This means that a solicitor may be better equipped to deal with complex legal issues that can sometimes arise during a property transaction. However, it’s important to remember that not all solicitors are conveyancing specialists. If you instruct a solicitor who is not a specialist, they may need to outsource the conveyancing work to a licensed conveyancer. This can end up being more expensive than if you had instructed a conveyancer directly.
So is it better to use a solicitor or a conveyancer?
Ultimately, the decision of who to instruct is a personal one. Some people feel more comfortable using a solicitor because they perceive them to be better qualified. Others find that instructing a conveyancer can be just as effective and can often be cheaper. In addition, some conveyancing firms now offer a ‘no sale, no fee service, which can be helpful if your transaction falls through. When it comes to choosing between a solicitor and a conveyancer, there is no right or wrong answer. It depends on your circumstances and what you feel most comfortable with. For example, if you are buying a complex property or are likely to encounter legal issues, it may be worth instructing a solicitor. However, if you are buying a simple property with no complications, a conveyancer may be the best option.
Bottom line
If you’re still not sure who to instruct, it’s always a good idea to get several quotes from both solicitors and conveyancers before making a decision. This will give you an idea of the costs involved and will help you to compare the services on offer. Plus, it’s always a good idea to speak to friends or family who have recently bought a property to see who they used and whether they were happy with the service.