Conveyancing - am I being unreasonable?

welshwizard1927

We haven't yet formally instructed our solicitors to undertake the conveyancing work, but were worried that the firm we plan on using are just too slow and lazy to want our business:

We queried prices etc last week - and in fairness they got back to us within a day or two. We indicated that we would like to instruct them, subject to the mortgage approval and they said they'd send out the paperwork in readiness. That took a week to come.

Again, in fairness it wouldn't have made a huge difference as we received the mortgage offer on the same day we received the solicitors paperwork, but the time it took to receive it concerned us slightly.

Having received the paperwork, I've raised a straightforward query regarding ID documents. Despite ringing (on three different numbers) it goes straight to answerphone. An email has not been responded to.

It leaves me wondering whether I should instruct this firm - I don't think I've ever been able to get straight through to them on the phone - it's always been after leaving messages that eventually someone has called me back. Am I being unreasonable?

Guest101

It's hard to say. Your not yet a customer, so you may not be a priority.

BUT

Your not yet a customer, surely they should want to butter you up.

It's very difficult to say, so id go withyour gut feeling

quotememiserable

I recently appointed a conveyancing solictor, and was amazed when I phoned round how unhelpful they were. The one I found that answered the phone quickly, knew their pricing and sounded knowledgeable got the job.
I'd recommend you ditch them. If they're poor now how will they be if the going gets tough.

watkins101

^^ This, I rang round 4 different solicitors and one stood head and shoulders above the rest. All 4 were about the same money within a few quid but the one I instructed was by far the most helpful and knowledgeable.

welshwizard1927

This is the thing - were using this firm on recommendation of a colleague who had used them. They're slightly more expensive but within reason.

Although I accept I'm not yet a customer, and fully appreciate they may have more urgent things to deal with, the fact they don't answer the phone really bugs me. And it doesn't seem a one off, but more of a custom.

Decisions decisions!

venture211

welshwizard1927 wrote: »

This is the thing - were using this firm on recommendation of a colleague who had used them. They're slightly more expensive but within reason.

Although I accept I'm not yet a customer, and fully appreciate they may have more urgent things to deal with, the fact they don't answer the phone really bugs me. And it doesn't seem a one off, but more of a custom.

Decisions decisions!

Our conveyancer is also a bit slow tbh, received our first letter a week after, but there was a weekend bank holiday in between.But, they do answer queries on calling twice.Not sure if thats normal.:eek:

Goldiegirl

If you haven't been impressed so far, look elsewhere, and find one that you feel confident want your business and will do a good job for you

Thrugelmir

welshwizard1927 wrote: »

Again, in fairness it wouldn't have made a huge difference as we received the mortgage offer on the same day we received the solicitors paperwork, but the time it took to receive it concerned us slightly.

With no mortgage offer in place then your not a fee paying client. As there's little they can do. Why the urgency?

ACG

Conveyancing solicitors are really hit and miss. Ive seen some shockers doing this job.

I went to a first time buyer event about 2 months ago and met a solicitor. She was lovely really helpful really friendly. Ive used her ever since. I request a quote on price and get it back within an hour or 2. As soon as i instruct her for the client she sends out the paperwork and calls the client the same day if possible to introduce herself.

Drop me a PM if you want me to put you in touch... although shes actually off on monday (but atleast shes told me in advance).

welshwizard1927

Thanks ACG - I'm going to pop in on Monday to drop off docs and ask in passing how they prefer to contact me. I can understand them not answering phone if dealing with something else, but at least have the decency to call back!!

I'll DM you Monday night if needed...