Conveyancer vs Solicitor: What’s The Difference?
Conveyancing is an essential step when buying or selling property. However, many homeowners are daunted by it. There’s lots of jargon and complicated legal processes, which can seem overwhelming. At Real Legal, we’re trying to make homeowners more comfortable with conveyancing by sharing our knowledge with you.
One of the most common questions we get asked is, what’s the difference between a conveyancer vs solicitor? We’re here to break down the distinction and help you choose the right conveyancer or solicitor for you.
What is conveyancing?
Before we go any further, you need to understand what conveyancing is. Conveyancing is the legal process that transfers ownership of a property from one person to another. It makes the sale legally valid and can prevent future disputes over ownership.
Whilst you can complete conveyancing yourself, most mortgage providers insist you hire a professional. This could be either a conveyancer or a solicitor. Their understanding of property law will ensure that all legal requirements are met and facilitate a smooth change of ownership.
So what’s the difference between a conveyancer vs solicitor?
Both conveyancers and solicitors are trained in property law. That means they can complete conveyancing to the same high standards. At Real Legal, we’re conveyancing solicitors, so our team includes both conveyancers and solicitors.
However, there are a few differences between the two:
Legal training
Whilst a conveyancer is just trained in property law, a solicitor is trained in other kinds of law as well. That could include family or criminal law, for example. If you choose a solicitor to undertake your conveyancing, they may therefore offer other services.
Membership and regulation
Solicitors must also be part of the Law Society and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. Conveyancers only have to be registered with the Council of Licensed Conveyancers. Whether you choose a conveyancer or solicitor, membership of these bodies should guarantee quality service.
Do I need a solicitor if I have a conveyancer?
No, you don’t need a solicitor if you have hired a conveyancer. A conveyancer can complete all the legal processes to transfer ownership.
The role of a conveyancer or solicitor
Whether you choose a conveyancer or solicitor, they will perform the same role. The only difference in their role will depend on whether you are a buyer or seller. Here are the common conveyancing tasks they will carry out.
Legal compliance
Whether you are buying or selling, your conveyancer or solicitor will make sure all legal requirements are met to complete the sale. That includes checking title deeds, carrying out anti-money laundering checks and more. These are complicated legal processes that are best left to professionals.
Property searches
If you’re buying a property, your conveyancer or solicitor will conduct property searches. These searches will uncover hidden issues like boundary disputes, planning permission applications and flood risks. This means you can make an informed decision before buying a property.
Preparation of contract
The seller’s conveyancer or solicitor will draft a contract of sale. This will be sent to the buyer’s representative, who may come back with some changes or enquiries. After some negotiation, the contracts will be exchanged and the sale becomes official.
Preparation of monies
Once the contract is exchanged, the buyer’s conveyancer or solicitor will liaise with lenders and prepare the money to transfer. Once done, the sale is complete.
Conveyancer vs solicitor: which should you choose?
The choice between a conveyancer vs solicitor comes down to personal preference. Whilst solicitors have more training in other areas of law, this isn’t relevant to conveyancing. Therefore, you shouldn’t base your decision on this.
Here are some factors you should consider when choosing a conveyancer or solicitor:
Cost
Most people’s primary concern is cost. Costs can be broken down into legal fees and disbursements. Legal fees are how much the firm charges for their services, whilst disbursements are additional costs incurred. Ask at least 3 different conveyancers or solicitors for a quote upfront.
Communication
Conveyancing can be a stressful process. Clear and open communication can ease your worries. You should choose a conveyancer or solicitor who will communicate with you and provide regular updates.
Lender’s panel
Some mortgage providers will only work with conveyancers on their lender’s panel. Check whether this is a requirement by your lender. If it is, ask firms whether they are on the lender’s panel before requesting a quote.
Local or nationwide
If you want to pop in and see your conveyancer or solicitor, you should choose a local conveyancer. They are normally more approachable and better at communication. National conveyancers may only communicate via email.
Reviews
It is crucial to check reviews before you choose someone for conveyancing. Take your time to read through the reviews. Sometimes, people leave a 1 star review for something completely out of the conveyancer’s hands (like the seller withdrawing). However, if the same issue repeatedly appears, that should be a red flag.
We hope this has helped to clear up the difference between a conveyancer vs solicitor. Both are trained in property law and can complete your conveyancing. Solicitors are also trained in other areas of law, like family or criminal law. However, this isn’t relevant to conveyancing.
At Real Legal, we have a team of conveyancers and solicitors. Our experience and expertise make conveyancing seamless and stress-free. We pride ourselves on our excellent customer service, providing regular updates on progress. There is always someone on hand to answer any questions you may have. Just call or email us. Or, if you’re local, pop into the office for a chat and a coffee. Request a conveyancing quote today.