Do I need a solicitor?

_{Posted 06/02/2023 14:10}

Did you know that you can carry out the legal process of buying and selling a house yourself?

Although we wouldn't recommend it!

Many of our clients think that solicitors charge a lot of money to carry out the conveyancing process of selling and/or buying a house, but can you do it yourself?

Yes, it is possible to carry out the legal process of buying and selling a house yourself. This is known as a "DIY" conveyancing or "self-conveyancing." However, it is important to keep in mind that the legal process of transferring ownership of a property can be complex, and there are many pitfalls to be aware of.

If you decide to go down the DIY route, you will need to do your own research and be prepared to spend a significant amount of time and effort on the process. You will also need to be confident in your ability to understand and interpret the legal documents involved, as well as to carry out any necessary searches and checks.

It is also worth noting that if you make a mistake during the conveyancing process, it can have serious consequences and could even result in the loss of your deposit or the property itself.

In most cases, it is recommended that you appoint a professional conveyancer to handle the legal aspects of the transaction on your behalf. This will give you peace of mind knowing that an experienced professional is handling the process and that everything is being done correctly.

What are the pitfalls of carrying out my own conveyancing when buying a house?

If you choose to carry out your own conveyancing when buying a house, there are several potential pitfalls you should be aware of, including:

1. Lack of expertise: Conveyancing involves complex legal processes, and without the proper training and experience, you may miss important details or make mistakes that could have serious consequences.


2. Time-consuming: The conveyancing process can be lengthy and requires a lot of time and effort, especially if you're doing it yourself.


3. Increased risk of mistakes: Without the oversight of a professional, you are more likely to make mistakes or miss important steps in the process, which could result in delays or even invalidate the sale.


4. Limited protection: If you make a mistake or encounter a problem during the conveyancing process, you may have limited recourse for resolving the issue, whereas if you use a solicitor, they have professional indemnity insurance to protect you.


5. Reduced bargaining power: Without the support of a professional, you may be at a disadvantage in negotiations with the seller or their solicitors.


6. Limited access to resources: Solicitors have access to a wide range of resources and databases to assist them in the conveyancing process, which you may not have access to if you're doing it yourself.

In conclusion, while it is possible to carry out your own conveyancing when buying a house, it can be a complex and risky process. It's important to weigh the potential pitfalls against the benefits and decide if the cost savings of doing it yourself are worth the added risk.