Being a first-time buyer is an exciting milestone in your life, but it can also feel overwhelming. There is a lot to think about and do before completing and calling your new property home.
One important aspect of the house buying process is finding a good solicitor to handle the property transaction and legal aspects of the sale. Discover more about all the reasons why you need a solicitor when buying a house and how to find one.
What does a property solicitor do?
While it will cost you money to hire an experienced solicitor when buying a home, it is an essential part of the process. They are there to help you make the legal part of buying a home as smooth as possible. A solicitor or conveyancer handles the legal elements involved in buying or selling a property for you. It is their job to keep you updated on the latest developments and information and to answer questions you have as a first-time buyer.
Do you need a solicitor as a first-time homebuyer?
The short answer is, yes, you need a solicitor when buying a home and as a first-time homebuyer. While you are not legally required to hire and use a solicitor when buying your first home, you will be lost without their help and might even find it nearly impossible to move forward without one. The reason being is that they can assist you with overseeing the legal aspects and process of the sale. This will ensure that ownership of the property is legally transferred to you.
What is conveyancing?
Another question or matter to address when buying a home for the first time is what is conveyancing. Simply put – it is the legal transfer of property between two parties such as a seller and buyer. A conveyancer is a specialist in conveyancing only, while solicitors can work on other legal matters of the sale too. Who you choose to use depends on your needs and what qualifications and knowledge you need them to have to help you with the sale and transfer of property.
What is the house conveyancing buying process?
When buying a home, there are several stages involved during the house conveyancing process. Below are a few of the steps that you’ll follow and need to complete as a first-time home buyer.
- Confirmation of instructions and proof of identity checks & source of funds
- Ensuring contracts are exchanged
- Obtaining the seller’s fittings and contents form and getting copies of the title documents
- Providing legal advice and addressing any pre-contract enquiries
- Carrying out the legal work necessary on behalf of your mortgage lender
- Handling the exchange of contracts, completion and transfer of funds
- Managing the payment of stamp duty
- Registration of transfer of ownership at the Land Registry
Getting in touch with a qualified solicitor
Curtis Whiteford Crocker has a team of experienced residential solicitors and conveyancers who understand the ins and outs of buying a property. Contact a Devon solicitor today if you are buying a house and we will be happy to help ensure a smooth and informed home buying process from start to finish.