prabhu
Relocating often comes with a long to-do list. One of the biggest decisions is choosing a good solicitor. Whether you’re buying your first home or moving for a new job, having a reliable legal expert by your side allows for a less stressful move. The right solicitor will handle contrasts and paperwork, and also flag issues you might not even be aware of. But how do you find a trustworthy solicitor in an unfamiliar area?
Start with local expertise
Solicitors with experience in the local property market offer a significant advantage. They understand the area’s council requirements, potential land issues, and legal quirks. For example, in areas like Cheltenham, solicitors often deal with properties in conservation zones or heritage areas, something a non-local firm may be less well-versed in. Cheltenham solicitors can offer expert legal advice on buying a property or declarations of trust.
Seek recommendations
Word of mouth still carries weight. If you have family, friends, or colleagues who’ve recently moved to the same area, ask about their experience. Were they happy with their solicitor? Was the communication clear and timely? Estate agents can also be a useful source of referrals.
Then there’s the digital version of word of mouth. Check review sites like Trustpilot or Review Solicitors and read about others’ experiences.
Check accreditations
Reputable solicitors will be regulated by the Solicitors’ Regulation Authority. This means the solicitors must follow a strict code of conduct and meet professional standards. Look for a firm with years of experience and a proven track record.
Compare fees
Solicitors charge in different ways: they may offer fixed fees for conveyancing, or charge by the hour or as a percentage of the property price. Get quotes from multiple firms and make sure you understand what’s included. A cheaper quote may exclude important services like searches or bank transfer fees. Avoid firms that are vague about pricing or reluctant to provide a breakdown. Transparency at the early stages may reflect how they’ll communicate later on.
Take note of first responses
See how the solicitor communicates from the start. Do they reply prompty? Are their explanations easy to understand? Do they sound engaged or are they merely ticking boxes? Ask whether you’ll be dealing with one solicitor or multiple team members. Smaller firms and local outfits often pride themselves on offering a more personal service, which can be a plus during a stressful move.
Look beyond price
Price matters, of course, but other factors like the solicitor’s experience, efficiency, and commitment may have just as big an impact on your experience. Delays, miscommunications, and errors in paperwork can be costly, both financially and emotionally. Remember solicitors aren’t all the same, even if they quote the same price.
Ask questions
When you’ve narrowed down your options, you might wish to ask: how will you keep me updated? What’s the average timeline for completing a property transaction? Do you handle all aspects of conveyancing (including searches and liaising with mortgage lenders)? The way the solicitor responds will tell you about how they work.
Last word
Choosing the right solicitor is a key part of your move. Take the time to research, compare, and ask questions. A good solicitor will protect your interests and help you feel in control through the process.
