How can you help your conveyancer?
When giving conveyancing advice we stress how important it is to use a conveyancer when buying or selling a house. Only if you really know what you are doing should you consider DIY conveyancing. But just because you get someone else to do it for you, it doesn’t mean you can’t help the conveyancing process along.
Be organised and provide things in advance
Whether you are a buyer or a seller, giving your conveyancing solicitor details such as the address of the property involved in the transaction up front is a time saver. It is useful for getting the ball rolling and it also lets your conveyancer know what kind of client you will be and the type of organisation and commitment you expect from them.
Also provide them with details of your mortgage lender, the asking or agreed sale price, and whether you are buying on your own or with someone else.
Provide identification
Have your identification documents ready to be handed over to your conveyancing solicitor. You’ll need a passport – so make sure you know where yours is and that it has not expired – and proof of address. For the latter, collect together some utility bills, a bank statement and your driving licence.
Have your mortgage agreement in place
Don’t wait for an offer to be accepted before getting a mortgage offer arranged. This is for three reasons. First, after the elation of having a bid accepted, getting a mortgage application rejected will feel doubly disappointing. Second, it’s possible any agents you are working with will view you as time-wasting searchers, and focus their attention – and latest availabilities – on other buyers. Third, there will be times during the conveyancing process when your conveyancer will need this offer.
Have an itinerary
If you are selling, draw up a list of things you are willing to include in the sale early on, rather than when pushed for by your conveyancer. Not only does it mean you can get through the negotiation stage of the process quicker, it also means that you have more opportunity to change your mind.
Ask questions
Find out how long things should take and what else you can do to help. Keep your conveyancer focused on your case and help push it through as quickly as you can. Not only can a prolonged conveyancing process be stressful; the longer it goes on, the more chance there is of the deal falling through.
