First Time Buyer Mortgage

gracceex

Hi all!

I have just reserved a new build property and a little confused on the type of solicitor I should instruct and how to go about finding one! Has anybody gone with a solicitor that they have found online or would you suggest I go with the solicitor recommended by the developer. The Solicitor they have recommended is coming in at approx £2400 (but I get a £1000 incentive towards legal fees subject to using their recommended broker and solicitor). The solicitors I've found online are coming in around £1200.

Thanks!

jennhg88

The solicitor the developer suggests will possibly be quicker as they already have all the information for the development.

However a local solicitor which has a conveyancing department (recommended by friend or family or something?) might be better if you can drop off documents directly etc and aren't reliant on the post.

So it's swings and roundabouts really. Are you sure the quotes are like for like?

mrginge

Neither.
Find a local independent solicitor.

sal_III

The type of solicitor you are after is "conveyancing" solicitor. In theory any solicitor can do the job, but for best results for for specialists in the field. The most important thing about the solicitor is for him/her to be on your mortgage lender approved panel.

Your mortgage broker will be able to recommend one, that fits that criteria. Alternatively you should be able to get the list from the Lender and pick one.

Speaking of which, be careful when using brokers and solicitors recommended by the developer, often they don't have your interest at hearth, but that of the developer.

sheepy21

Ask around for recommendations, I asked fb friends etc, read reviews. I quickly realised the online companies were on the whole atrocious. In the end we went with the solicitor recommended by the ea, we were originally not planning on it, but we researched the firm and were happy that they were competent. Our solicitor has been fantastic, so no regrets on our end!