A guide to conveyancing for first-time buyers
For the first time in more than a decade, first-time buyers are now outnumbering all types of property buyers.
In this article, the specialist conveyancers at Farnworth Rose offer advice on the conveyancing process for first-time buyers.
What is conveyancing?
Put simply, conveyancing is the process of transferring the legal ownership of a property from one person to another.
What will your conveyancer do?
The role of your conveyancer is to make sure that the legal process of your move runs as smoothly as possible.
This will include:
- Ensuring the seller has a legal title to sell the property
- Organising searches such as local and coal searches
- Making sure the property has the appropriate Planning Permissions and/or Building Regulations, if necessary.
- Raising enquiries with the seller on issues such as boundary responsibilities
- Advising on any restrictive covenants which could affect how you can use your home.
What to look for when choosing your conveyancer
Choosing the right conveyancer to handle your move is one of the most important steps in the home buying process.
There are few things you should take into account when choosing your conveyancer:
- Look for a regulated solicitor – choosing a solicitor regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority will mean that you will be covered by the firm’s insurance should anything go wrong.
- Look for a fixed fee quote – budgeting for your house move is difficult enough without getting nasty surprises on the cost of legal fees. Look for a fixed fee conveyancing quote with a full breakdown of the costs involved (often referred to as ‘disbursements’).
- Choose a specialist conveyancer – the conveyancing process can be complicated so it is important to have a specialist on your side.
How can clients help the conveyancing process?
As a client, the easiest way to help the conveyancing process run smoothly is to communicate with your conveyancer.
This means if you have any concerns about the property, no matter how big or small, you should let your conveyancer know. They can then act to prevent any unnecessary delays.
If you are purchasing your property with a full or part gifted deposit (using money from parents or other relatives) you should also let your conveyancer know straight away so they can carry out all the necessary checks and get you moving as quickly as possible.
Talk to the conveyancing experts at Farnworth Rose
For advice on the conveyancing process, call the specialist conveyancers at Farnworth Rose on 01282 695 400 or visit www.farnworthrose.co.uk