First time buyers - how to choose a solicitor?

laurat

Hello, I've been lurking on this board for a while and have picked up some great tips, but I'd really appreciate some help here.

We are on the brink of putting in an offer on a flat in a new build development, having had some mortgage quotes. However we're aware of the need to have a solicitor in place before we get the ball rolling.

How should we go about this? Is it best to go for a local solicitor? Should we just pick a few and compare their quotes? Is there anywhere we can go for recommendations? We have been recommended a family solicitor by relatives but they aren't overly local.

Any tips would be great.

Many thanks in advance,

Laura

MortgageMamma

Hi Laura

Its always bes to go on recommendation, what area are you in?

Some of the internet firms are good as well though.

stanmoresaver

recommendation is the best route- If you don't get anywhere with friends and family- maybe your mortgage broker could advise you-we build up good relationships with solicitors and want the same end- ie a speedy conclusion.

SS

MortgageMamma

I need a new solicitor to start working with, she is getting bogged down with too much work from me!

AndrewSmith

I actually think the wisest way to do it is to get:

1 Local quote
1 Online Quote
1 Distant Solicitor Quote

Compare all 3, play them off against each other beofre making your decision.

Don't automatically go for the cheapest. If you are paying bottom dollar chances are you may get bottom quality service. After all do you think the solicitor will bust his gut over a case that is earning him less than another on his desk that may be easier?

Common sense is the best approach.

Andy

herbiesjp

:spam: reported

laurat

Thanks very much for all your replies.

MortgageMamma - we're in North London, Crouch End / Hornsey / Muswell Hill area if that helps or if anyone is local and has any ideas!

I shall certainly contact the one the relatives have mentioned and ask the mortgage broker.

Re the suggestions to get online quotes in addition to others, which websites are best for this purpose please? And is there a list of particular services we'd need to ask to be quoted on? Sorry I'm really not sure how this part of it all works, so thank you for your help.

Laura

achilles

Browns solicitors is a chain that's been mentioned on the boards a couple of times.
Also know someone who went with them and recommended them, though others have said that whilst not super efficient, they got the job done at a good price. The service you want is conveyancing for a house purchase. there's a list on their website detailing all the costs, use the purchase cost calculator for an indication of the fees
https://www.brownssolicitors.co.uk

Most work by all solictors is done by phone and post so not too much problem with distance, though you will have to visit the office on one occasion so bear that in mind.

also check what the fees will be should the purchase fall through before exchange of contracts. (Browns is no move, no fee)

laurat

re my last reply - stanmoresaver - I have just noticed your location! Would you be able to make any recommendations please?