Ever wondered why property transactions can feel like they’re stuck in the last century? Through a combination of excessive workload and broken industry practices, solicitors can end up derailing property deals. Let’s explore some common bad habits and offer you the knowledge to prevent them.
1. Bad habits of solicitors
1.1 They love-bomb you to get your business, then they abandon you
Initial enthusiasm fizzles out—it’s a common complaint. At first, solicitors seem keen and go above and beyond to chase you and get your business. But once they have you on board, you become another case file in their pile. The promise of a personalised service can quickly turn into a frustratingly impersonal experience, where you’re left chasing for updates and feeling like a small cog in a large machine.
Pro-tip: Always ask how a solicitor will communicate with you throughout the process and how often you can expect updates. Ask for references, get guarantees in writing, and opt for a service with clear, regular communication channels.
1.2 They are not incentivised to meet deadlines
Lack of incentive for speed makes the working with solicitors painfully frustrating. Traditional solicitor firms are not usually driven by how quickly they can get your transaction to completion. Their fixed fees mean whether your purchase takes 8 weeks or 18, they generally get paid the same. This creates a lack of urgency, leading to delays that are not only annoying but can also be costly for you and result in a fall through. This sluggish pace is made worse by the feeling that once you’ve started the process, you’re too far in to change course, leaving you feeling trapped.
Pro-tip: Look for conveyancing solutions that offer a faster, more streamlined process. Services like Conveyo use technology alongside human expertise to accelerate and simplify property transactions, aiming for completion in as little as 4 weeks.
1.3 They leave you hanging in the balance
Communication blackouts are too common, with long periods where you hear nothing from your solicitor. This silence can be deafening, leaving you anxious and out of the loop. The complex jargon and opaque processes of the property market create an information imbalance where the solicitor holds all the cards. Many clients find that instead of having a trusted advisor by their side, a solicitor can leave them feeling powerless and at the mercy of someone else’s timetable.
Pro-tip: Ensure you’re equipped with the basic knowledge of the conveyancing process, so you can ask informed questions and understand the stages of your transaction. Partnering with a conveyancing service that values transparency can also help demystify the process, giving you greater control and peace of mind.
2. How to Prevent Solicitor Self-Sabotage
2.1 Knowledge is power
Knowledge truly is power, especially when it comes to navigating the complexities of property transactions. Before you embark on your journey, do your homework. Understand the basics of the conveyancing process, familiarise yourself with the stages of buying or selling a house, and know the common pitfalls. This preparation equips you to ask the right questions and make informed decisions.
Pro-tip: Never hesitate to ask your solicitor for updates or clarifications. It’s your right to be informed.
By taking charge of your understanding, you mitigate the risk of being left in the dark or worse, being misled. Remember, the more you know, the more empowered you are to ensure your solicitor stays on track and adheres to your timelines.
2.2 Choose the right solicitor
Choosing the right solicitor can make or break your property transaction. Look for a solicitor or conveyancer who is proactive, responsive, and has a track record of adhering to timelines. Solicitors should communicate clearly and regularly, keeping you updated every step of the way.
Key qualities to look for:
- Responsiveness: How quickly do they reply to emails or calls?
- Transparency: Are they open about their fees and the process?
- Proactiveness: Do they anticipate potential issues and act on them promptly?
- Reputation: What do their previous clients say about them?
For further guidance on selecting a conveyancer who aligns with your needs, consider reading “How To Choose The Right Conveyancer”. This resource provides practical tips on evaluating potential solicitors.
Pro-tip: Don’t just go for the cheapest option, weigh their service quality and reputation as well. You get what you pay for.
2.3 Act proactively with Conveyo
Start thinking about conveyancing as soon as you enter the property market. Selecting Conveyo for your transaction means you’re choosing a hassle-free and swift process. Our platform matches clients with top-performing solicitors who are carefully vetted to ensure quick, effective, and stress-free conveyancing.
Why choose Conveyo?
- Everything in one place: Our digital platform offers a seamless blend of necessary tools and services, facilitating a streamlined transaction.
- Powered by AI: We leverage Artificial Intelligence to speed up the conveyancing process, predicting and mitigating potential delays before they become problems.
- Driven by humans: Despite our technology, we never lose the personal touch. Our team is always here to support you.
With Conveyo, you’re not just choosing a solicitor; you’re selecting peace of mind. You can rest assured that your property transaction is in the hands of data-driven experts committed to meeting your deadlines with efficiency and clarity.
Don’t leave your property transaction to chance – use Conveyo and get a trusted, modern solicitor with a proven track record. Discover the future of home buying and selling with Conveyo.
Due diligence and the right partners play a pivotal role in preventing solicitor bad habits. By arming yourself with information, carefully choosing your team, and leveraging conveyancing platforms like Conveyo, you place yourself in a position of strength, ready to navigate the complexities of property transactions. Through informed decision-making and strategic partnerships, you can ensure a smoother, more transparent, and successful property transaction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can someone sue after buying a house?
Yes, a buyer can sue if they discover undisclosed problems after the purchase. They would need to prove that the seller knowingly hid major defects. Platforms like Conveyo minimize such risks by using data-driven processes that foster transparency and reduce human error.
What can stop a house sale?
- Unsatisfactory home inspection results
- Low property appraisal
- Buyer’s financing falling through
- Legal issues with the title
- Seller fails to meet contract obligations
What to do when a buyer pulls out?
- Renegotiate with the buyer if possible
- Relist the property as quickly as possible
- Consider keeping the deposit, if the contract allows
- Review the reasons for withdrawal to prevent future occurrences
- Reach out to other interested parties or buyers
