Everyone looks at three main things when they’re buying a house: area, facilities and price. However, there’s one more thing that many people think isn’t important: a conveyancer.

What is conveyance?

Conveyance is the legal process of signing paperwork required when selling or transferring property to another’s name. The necessary process of this is simple:

First, you agree on a price with the seller. The seller’s solicitor will then draw up a contract detailing all clauses, amounts and payments. In a case where you don’t have a solicitor, the seller will then give you this contract, and you have to sign it. However, if you have a solicitor, they will first go through the contract details and make sure everything is fair and valid.

This is the point where most people question the need of the solicitor – after all if all they’re going to do is read the document, why do you need a solicitor for buying a house?

A solicitor can provide you with many more services than just drawing up or going through a contract.

Things a solicitor can help you with:

• Inspections

The seller of the property isn’t required to disclose any problems. This makes it all more important for you to inspect the house yourself to find problems or breaks. Experts should ideally do inspections. An estate solicitor usually has several people he/she knows who can help secure your best interests.

• Contacts & language

Purchasing a property comes with complicated legal procedures and terminology. A solicitor can help you navigate it and make sure you aren’t confused by legal terms.

• Mortgage filing

A mortgage is a long-term loan against the property you’re buying. There are many different types of mortgage and several providers. Finding one can become hectic, especially when you consider the varying amounts and rates of interest. A solicitor can help you find the right mortgage provider or even help you estimate how much mortgage you need.

• Tax filing

After the transfer of ownership, you’re required to pay tax. The Stamp Duty Land tax depends entirely upon the property. Your solicitor will calculate this tax, pay it to the Revenue commissions. Without the tax, the property cannot be registered in your name.

Without a solicitor, you’re still expected to navigate through these tasks. However, an estate solicitor has experience and resources from their experience, which can be advantageous to you.

If you would like help purchasing a home or with any other legal query, please get in touch with the team at Devaney & Partners.