5 Questions to Ask Your Solicitor

When buying a new house, it can be hard to stay on top of everything. To help. we’ve compiled a list of important questions you should ask your solicitor.

1) Why do I need a solicitor?

It can be helpful for you to understand exactly what your solicitor will be doing throughout the process. A reputable solicitor should be more than happy to provide a breakdown of the services they’re going to provide.

2) How much will your services cost me?

Once you have a better idea of exactly what services your solicitor is providing, you’ll want to know how much they’re going to charge you. It can be worth shopping around for a solicitor, but it’s not always advisable to go for the cheapest. Look at exactly what each quote covers, whether you’ll be paying a fixed fee and whether there is a fee even if you don’t end up moving.

3) Are disbursements included in my fee?

Disbursements are third-party costs which your solicitor will take care of as part of your transaction. This includes the cost of searches and Land Registry fees. Ask your solicitor whether these costs are included in your quote or if they’ll be added on later.

4) Who will be looking after me?

For a smoother experience, it’s always best to deal with one person as much as you can, so it’s worth asking who your main point of contact will be. Your solicitor should provide you with regular updates on your progress, so it’s also a good idea to check that this will be part of your service.

5) How long will everything take?

Although this can be a harder question to answer, your solicitor should be able to provide you with approximate time frames and best-case scenarios. At the very least, it will give you a rough guide and show your solicitor that you’re keen to keep things moving along. You could also ask them if there’s anything you can do to speed up the process, from signing and returning documents promptly to replying to questions quickly and efficiently.