house conveyancing

[EllyD]

Is it very difficult to access the sites that give details of search and house registry? Anyone know what they are? - and has anyone done their own conveyancing? If so, any great problems?

[Buenchico]

All documents held by the Land Registry, about a particular property, can be purchased online, here:
http://www.landregisteronline.gov.uk/

I've never done my own conveyancing, so I won't comment about how easy (or otherwise) it might be. I will point out, however, that licensed conveyancors are usually far cheaper than solicitors and, in my experience, far more efficient.

Chris

[buildersmate]

Agree with you, Chris. In fact most high street solicitors practices (that are not just a man and a legal dog) employ licensed conveyancers anyway to do the work and deal directly with the client. They don't tell you that. Of course they will be quick to point out that the individuals works under the supervision of a solicitor.

[EllyD]

Thank you for your helpful advice. It makes a lot of sense. I thought there had to be a cheaper way to do these things when all they do is access the internet - then charge a fortune!
Now, is there any point in using an on-line conveyancer? They seem quite good value. I found them when I googled "licensed conveyers uk".

[Buenchico]

If problems arise, it helps if you can talk directly to the person doing the conveyancing. Your signature will be required on a few documents, so it's also easiest if you can just call into the office to deal with it.

Personally, I'd prefer to find somebody locally. The problem is, though, that many small firms have been bought out by solicitors. I've just taken a look under 'Conveyancers' in my local Yellow Pages and I can only find one firm which isn't actually a solicitors' company. Even so, that would be the firm I would contact first before trying the solicitors. (If I couldn't find an independent licensed conveyancer, I'd ring round all of the solicitors offering 'fixed fees' and get the best quote).

Chris

[EllyD]

Thanks for that tip Chris and Buildersmate, I`ve had a quick look at Yell.com and there are one or two "legal services" firms within 20 miles which makes it a practical proposition. Elly.

[buildersmate]

I sold a house this way Ellie. My licensed conveyancer was 200 miles away in Manchester and I never met her. Correspondence was largely conducted using email and phone, except legal documents that needed signature which were sent by Registered Post. Many conventional solicitors don't or won't use email, preferring to sent letters all the time.