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Using solicitors recommended by estate agents?

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Comments

  • covmike
    covmike Posts: 41 Forumite
    Is the general consensus the same here for new builds?

    I am looking at buying a new build using the FirstBuy government scheme. I got 3 quotes from solicitors whose details I got from Orbit (the homebuy agent in Coventry) they were all around £1100. The developer gave me details of two solicitors who charge no more than £850. This seems to be a significant difference and I wonder if this is subsidised by the commission from the developer and that is how it is lower?

    Do people think there would be a problem dealing with the developer recommended solicitor?

    Thanks

    Mike
  • googler
    googler Posts: 16,103 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture 10,000 Posts Name Dropper Combo Breaker
    covmike wrote: »
    Is the general consensus the same here for new builds?

    No, the situation we're talking about here is someone SELLING, and using a solicitor recommended by or associated with the selling agent.

    I am looking at buying a new build using the FirstBuy government scheme. I got 3 quotes from solicitors whose details I got from Orbit (the homebuy agent in Coventry) they were all around £1100. The developer gave me details of two solicitors who charge no more than £850. This seems to be a significant difference and I wonder if this is subsidised by the commission from the developer and that is how it is lower?

    Do people think there would be a problem dealing with the developer recommended solicitor?

    Yes, you're looking for someone to be on your side; a solicitor associated with the developer you're buying from, and recommended by the developer, is hardly likely to fight your corner with any enthusiasm in any problem area since it will risk their relationship with the developer.

    As a buyer, find your own solicitor at arm's length or more from the developer
  • paddyrg
    paddyrg Posts: 13,543 Forumite
    Your solicitor is there to represent your interests - if they have divided loyalties, you're not going to get the best from them, even if they do save you ~0.2% of the house price by using them!
  • DVardysShadow
    DVardysShadow Posts: 18,949 Forumite
    covmike wrote: »
    Is the general consensus the same here for new builds?
    As this thread is about SELLING and you are BUYING your newbuild, you should totally disregard this thread.
    Hi, we’ve had to remove your signature. If you’re not sure why please read the forum rules or email the forum team if you’re still unsure - MSE ForumTeam
  • covmike
    covmike Posts: 41 Forumite
    Thanks for pointing that out guys. I did read the initial post but it didn't jump out at me that it was about selling so thanks for clarifying.
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