onthemove

How to Save Money when buying your first home!

Fri, 24 Mar 2023 11:11:09 GMT

Buying a home is expensive, but it doesn't have to break the bank. Here are some money saving tips for buying your first home.

We understand that buying a property for the first time can be an overwhelming experience, especially when it comes to financing. But with proper planning and some savvy financial strategies, you can save money and get on the property ladder. Here are ten ways that you as a first-time buyer can save money when buying a property!

Build up your deposit: The larger your deposit, the lower your mortgage rate will be. Aim to save at least 10% of the property value before you start house hunting.
Check government schemes: The UK government has several schemes to help first-time buyers, such as Help to Buy, Shared Ownership, and Right to Buy. Look into these schemes to see if they can help you.
Research the market: Look at different areas and property types to find a good deal. Consider areas that are not as popular but have good transport links, schools and amenities.
Consider a fixer-upper: A property in need of renovation may have a lower price tag but can still be a great investment if you’re willing to put in the work.
Negotiate: Don't be afraid to negotiate the price with the seller or their agent. You may be able to get a better deal.
Use a mortgage broker: A broker can help you find the best mortgage deal for your situation and save you time and money in the long run.
Be aware of additional costs: In addition to the deposit and mortgage, there are other costs to consider, such as stamp duty, solicitor fees, and survey costs. Budget for these costs in advance.
Get a survey: It’s important to have a survey of the property you’re considering buying, so you know what repairs may need to be done in the future. You can use this information to negotiate a lower price.
Look for incentives: Some developers and sellers offer incentives such as paying for legal fees or offering cashback. Look out for these deals when buying a new build property.
Don't rush: Take your time and don't feel pressured to buy a property. Rushing into a decision could lead to regret and extra expenses down the line.

By following these tips, you can save money and make an informed decision when buying your first property in the UK. Remember, buying a property is a long-term investment, so take the time to do your research and plan accordingly.

The High Street is Dead: Why use an online conveyancer?

Fri, 17 Mar 2023 12:00:27 GMT

High Street Conveyancers are a thing of the past, here's why!

Moving home can be a stressful and time-consuming process, especially when it comes to the legal side of things. Conveyancing is an essential part of buying or selling property in the UK, and choosing the right conveyancer can make a significant difference in how smoothly the process runs. In recent years, online conveyancing has become increasingly popular as an alternative to traditional high street conveyancing. We'll show you exactly why it's best to use an online conveyancer when moving home in the UK below.

The world has adopted to working online, and there's good reason for that! It's taken the world of conveyancing a little longer to catch up but we're now in a position to offer the exact same service, but with many extra benefits to help you and your move! Here's just a hand full;

Cost-effective: Online conveyancers are often more affordable than high street conveyancers, primarily due to their lower overheads. According to a study by HomeOwners Alliance, the average legal cost of conveyancing in the UK is £1,040, but online conveyancers can offer services for as little as £500.
Convenience: Online conveyancing offers greater convenience than high street conveyancing, as it can be done entirely online. This means that clients can access their conveyancer at any time, from anywhere in the world, making the process more flexible and adaptable to individual needs. ID checks and documents are all done online which saves both time and money right from the start!
Speed: Online conveyancers are typically faster than high street conveyancers due to their use of technology. They can streamline the process by automating administrative tasks, reducing the time it takes to complete paperwork and searches. This can be especially important in a competitive housing market, where speed can make a significant difference in securing a property.
Expertise: Online conveyancers specialise in conveyancing and have a team of dedicated professionals who can offer expert advice and support. They are often highly experienced in dealing with complex conveyancing issues, such as leaseholds and shared ownership, and can offer specialist services at no extra cost.
Transparency: Online conveyancers provide clients with full transparency on fees and the progress of their conveyancing process. Clients can access their case online, receive regular updates and communicate directly with their conveyancer.

It's clear why working with an online conveyancer is now the more popular choice for people moving home. But, why is it that we're moving away from using a High Street firm?

Cost: High street conveyancers are often more expensive than online conveyancers, due to their higher overheads. Clients can end up paying more for the same service as an online conveyancer.
Limited accessibility: High street conveyancers are often limited to their local area, which can restrict clients' choice and flexibility. Clients may need to travel to their conveyancer's office, which can be inconvenient and time-consuming.
Limited opening hours: High street conveyancers typically operate within regular business hours, which can make it difficult for clients to contact them outside of these times. This can cause delays in the conveyancing process.
Limited technology: High street conveyancers may not have access to the latest technology, which can slow down the conveyancing process. They may rely on manual paperwork, which can be time-consuming and prone to errors.

So, as you can see, online conveyancing offers several advantages over traditional high street conveyancing when moving home in the UK. Online conveyancers are cost-effective, convenient, fast, and offer expertise and transparency. High street conveyancers offer a personal service, but they can be more expensive, less accessible, and limited by their technology and opening hours. With the growth of online conveyancing in recent years, it is clear that it is becoming the preferred choice for many UK home movers. However, it is important to choose a reputable online conveyancer that is regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority or Council for Licensed Conveyancers to ensure that the process runs smoothly and safely.

If you'd like to see just how good online conveyancing can be, use our quote tool below to get your free, no obligation quote. Alternatively, call us and chat to one of our friendly team to answer any questions you may have!

The REAL cost of buying your first home

Wed, 15 Mar 2023 11:30:45 GMT

Here's the real costs of buying your first home, it's more than you think!

Buying your first home is exciting and we want to make sure that you have all the information you need on the costs of moving before you get started. This will allow you to budget appropriately and not have any surprises as you go through the process, the aim is to have as much money left over to put into the house for when you move in!

There are a number of costs that first time buyers need to consider when buying their first home. Here are the most important ones to keep in mind, along with some rough estimates of how much they might cost and when they're due:

Deposit: 5%-20% of purchase Price - Paid when you exchange contacts, between 6-20 weeks of your offer being accepted

A deposit is the amount of money that a buyer must put down upfront as part of the purchase price of the property. Most lenders require a deposit of at least 5% of the purchase price, but some lenders may require more. For example, on a property worth £250,000, a 5% deposit would be £12,500.

Mortgage arrangement fees : £500-£2,000, paid either on completed application or added to monthly mortgage payments

Some lenders may charge a fee for arranging a mortgage. These fees can vary widely, but they are typically around £1,000-£2,000.

Stamp duty : Price depending on purchase price, use this calculator , Paid within 14 days of completion

Stamp duty is a tax that buyers must pay on properties over a certain value. The threshold for paying stamp duty is currently £125,000, but this may vary depending on the location of the property. For example, on a property worth £250,000, the stamp duty would be £2,500.

Solicitor's fees :

A solicitor is required to handle the legal aspects of buying a property. Fees can vary, but typically range from £1,000-£2,000.

Survey costs :

A survey is recommended to check the condition of the property before purchase. Costs vary depending on the type of survey required, but typically range from £250-£1,500.

Removal costs :

Moving costs can vary depending on the distance of the move, but typically range from £500-£2,000.

Home insurance :

Insurance is necessary to protect the property against damage or loss. Costs vary depending on the size and location of the property, but typically range from £300-£1,000 per year.

In addition to these costs, first time buyers should also factor in any additional expenses such as repairs, renovations, and furniture. By considering all of these costs upfront, first time buyers can ensure that they are fully prepared for the financial responsibilities of owning their first home.

When should I sell my house?

Wed, 15 Mar 2023 10:58:57 GMT

Want to know when the best time is to sell your home? We'll let you know below!

According to research by the property website Zoopla, the most popular month for home moves in the UK is August, followed closely by July. This is likely due to the summer months being a popular time for families to move while their children are out of school. In contrast, the winter months of December and January are typically the quietest times for home moves in the UK.

However, it's worth noting that the timing of property sales and moves can vary significantly depending on location. For example, in London, the busiest time for property sales tends to be in the autumn months, when the summer holidays are over and people are back in the city.

Over the last five years, there has been a noticeable shift in the timing of property sales and moves. With the rise of online estate agents and digital property marketplaces, property transactions can now take place more quickly and easily than ever before. As a result, people are no longer tied to traditional seasonal patterns and are more likely to move when it suits them.

Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the UK property market, with many people reassessing their housing needs as a result of lockdowns and remote working. This has led to a surge in demand for larger properties with more outdoor space, as well as for properties in rural areas.

It depends on various factors, such as your personal circumstances, the location of the property, the current state of the property market, and the condition of the property.

For example, if you need to sell your property urgently, you may not have the luxury of waiting for the ideal market conditions. In this case, you may need to sell regardless of the season or market conditions. Similarly, if your property is in a desirable location with high demand, you may be able to sell at any time of the year, regardless of market conditions.

Moreover, the UK property market is notoriously unpredictable, and there is no guarantee that waiting for the 'best time' to sell will result in a higher sale price. Market conditions can change rapidly, and even the most experienced experts can struggle to predict future trends with accuracy.

Ultimately, the decision of when to sell a property should be based on a careful consideration of all relevant factors, including personal circumstances, market conditions, and the condition of the property. By taking a comprehensive approach, you can make an informed decision that is right for you and your property.

In conclusion, while there are some traditional patterns in when most people move home in the UK, such as the popularity of August and July, the market is becoming increasingly diverse and dynamic. By staying informed about market trends and taking a flexible approach, property sellers can make the most of their sales opportunities at any time of the year.

5 exciting ways to prepare for selling your home!

Tue, 14 Mar 2023 10:56:26 GMT

If you're excited for moving home, get started with these 5 steps!

Moving home can be an exciting time for many people, as it marks the start of a new chapter in their lives. If you're a seller preparing to move, it's essential to take some steps to ensure a smooth transition to your new home and why not get started early! In this blog, we will discuss five things you can do to prepare for your move while highlighting the excitement that comes with selling your home.

Declutter and Organise

One of the best things about moving is the opportunity to declutter and start fresh in your new home. Before you put your home on the market, take some time to go through your belongings and organise them. Start by separating items into piles of things to keep, donate, sell, or discard. This process will not only help you feel organised, but it will also make your home more appealing to potential buyers. Decluttering can make your home feel more spacious, and buyers can better visualise themselves living in it.

Start Packing Early

Packing can be a time-consuming and tedious process. Starting early can help you avoid the stress and rush of last-minute packing. Begin with items you don't use often and work your way up to things you use daily. Remember to label each box with the contents and the room it belongs in to make unpacking easier in your new home.

Research Moving Companies

Moving can be a daunting task, and selecting a reliable moving company can make all the difference. Start your research early by asking for recommendations from friends and family and reading online reviews. You can then compare prices to find the best company for your needs. Knowing that you have a reliable moving company can give you peace of mind during the moving process.

Update Your Address and Subscriptions

Before you move, make a list of all the places you need to update your address. This includes your bank, credit cards, insurance company, and subscriptions. Notify them of your upcoming move and provide them with your new address. This will ensure that your mail arrives at your new home without any delays.

Complete any Repairs or Maintenance

Before listing your home for sale, it's essential to complete any repairs or maintenance. Doing so will make your home more appealing to potential buyers and could result in a higher selling price. Additionally, completing these tasks before you move out will save you time and money in the long run. Completing these tasks can also help you feel more confident during the selling process.

Instruct your Solicitor as early as possible!

Getting legally prepared for your sale puts you in a great position for when you find a buyer. Filling out the initial forms can be time consuming so it's best to get it done right from the start, even before you've listed your house for sale. This means that when you accept an offer on your house your Solicitor can send the draft contracts straight away which saves valuable time and kickstarts the process.

Selling your home can be an exciting time in your life, as it opens the door to new possibilities and adventures. With the right mindset and some careful planning, you can make your move a positive and exciting experience. If you'd like any help getting prepared or speaking with our team to get a quote to undertake the legal work, just call us or get a quote using the links below.

The 7 Best Places To Live In The UK

Tue, 07 Mar 2023 10:24:49 GMT

Do you live in one of the top 7 places in the UK? If not, here's how much it will cost you!

The UK offers a diverse range of options for those seeking a place to call home. With bustling cities, charming towns, and stunning countryside landscapes, there's no shortage of attractive locations to choose from. We may not be known best for our weather but we sure have some great places to live! Here are some of the top 7 in the UK, along with their average house prices.

London - Average house price: £500,000

London is one of the most vibrant and exciting cities in the world. It's home to a diverse range of cultures and boasts some of the best restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues in the country. However, it's also one of the most expensive places to live in the UK, with an average house price of around £500,000.

Oxford - Average house price: £400,000

Oxford is a picturesque city located in the south of England. It's famous for its world-renowned university and stunning architecture, making it a popular destination for tourists and students alike. However, it's also a great place to live, with a thriving cultural scene and an average house price of around £400,000.

Bath - Average house price: £350,000

Bath is a beautiful city located in the southwest of England. It's famous for its Roman Baths, Georgian architecture, and stunning countryside surroundings. It's also one of the most expensive places to live in the UK, with an average house price of around £350,000.

Edinburgh - Average house price: £270,000

Edinburgh is the capital city of Scotland and is famous for its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture. It's a great place to live, with plenty of employment opportunities and a high quality of life. The average house price in Edinburgh is around £270,000.

Bristol - Average house price: £280,000

Bristol is a lively and creative city located in the southwest of England. It's known for its street art, music scene, and great food. It's also a great place to live, with a thriving economy and an average house price of around £280,000.

Brighton - Average house price: £360,000

Brighton is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city located on the south coast of England. It's famous for its beach, pier, and lively atmosphere. It's also a great place to live, with a strong sense of community and an average house price of around £360,000.

Manchester - Average house price: £200,000

Manchester is a bustling city located in the north of England. It's famous for its music scene, football clubs, and vibrant culture. It's also a great place to live, with a strong economy and an average house price of around £200,000.

How To Get People To Pay More For Your House When Selling

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 16:46:10 GMT

Let's face it, we always want more money for our house when we sell. Well, now you can! Use these steps below to make your home more valuable!

Selling your home can be a challenging task, especially in a competitive market. To attract potential buyers and receive the highest offer, you need to make your property stand out from the rest and the Estate Agent can only do so much! Here are some tips that can help you get more for your home!

Improve the Curb Appeal

First impressions are essential, and the first thing that potential buyers will see is the exterior of your property. Therefore, it's important to ensure that the curb appeal is attractive and inviting. You can achieve this by painting the front door, trimming the hedges, mowing the lawn, and planting some flowers or shrubs.

Declutter and Clean

A cluttered and messy property can be a big turn-off for buyers. Therefore, it's essential to declutter and clean your property before putting it on the market. Get rid of any unwanted items, clean the floors and surfaces, and ensure that the rooms are tidy.

Neutralise the Decor

While you may love bright and bold colours, potential buyers may not share the same taste. Therefore, it's advisable to neutralise the decor of your property. Paint the walls in neutral colours, remove any bold wallpaper or artwork, and ensure that the furniture is minimal and unobtrusive

Make minor Repairs

Small repairs such as a dripping tap or a loose doorknob may seem insignificant, but they can put off potential buyers. Therefore, it's essential to make minor repairs before putting your property on the market. Fix any leaky faucets, replace any broken tiles, and ensure that all appliances are in good working order.

Highlight the Best Features

Every property has its unique features that can make it stand out. Whether it's a beautiful garden, a stunning view, or a spacious living area, it's essential to highlight these features. Ensure that they are clean, well-maintained and prominently displayed in your property listing.

Hire a Professional Photographer

High-quality photographs can make all the difference when it comes to attracting potential buyers. Therefore, it's advisable to hire a professional photographer who can capture your property in the best light. Make sure that the photographs showcase the property's best features and are taken from different angles.

Set a Realistic Price

One of the most important factors that can influence the sale of your property is the price. Setting a realistic price that reflects the market value of your property is essential to attract potential buyers and receive the highest offer. Research the local market and compare prices of similar properties in your area to determine a fair price. Speak to a few Estate Agents to get their opinion on the value of your property and then make an informed decision.

With these tips, you can increase your chances of attracting potential buyers and receiving the highest offer for your property.

The 5 Steps To Successful Negotiations On Your Purchase

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 12:29:42 GMT

Negotiating the price for a house is a MUST when buying, let us show you how to do it!

We can all do with a little extra money when moving home but negotiating the price of your new home can be a daunting experience!

Follow these 5 steps to negotiate a fair price for your new home without being taken advantage of:

Step 1 - Do your research

Before you start negotiating, research the selling prices of similar properties in the area. Consider any differences, such as the condition of the property, the location, and any additional features. This information will give you a better idea of the fair market value of the property and help you make an informed decision.

Step 2 - Identify the seller's motivations

Knowing the seller's motivations can give you an advantage in the negotiation process. For example, if the seller is in a hurry to sell, they may be more willing to negotiate on price. Conversely, if the seller has received multiple offers, they may be less likely to accept a lower offer. You can usually find this information out from the Estate Agent or asking the Seller directly when you are viewing the property.

Step 3 - Consider other factors

Price isn't the only factor to consider when negotiating. You can also negotiate on other factors, such as the completion date, repairs or improvements that need to be made, or any items you would like them to leave when your complete. Consider what's important to you and be prepared to negotiate on those points.

Step 4 - Be confident

Confidence is key when negotiating. Be prepared to walk away if the seller isn't willing to meet your price. Don't be afraid to make a lower offer, but make sure it's within a reasonable range of the fair market value of the property.

Step 5 - Leave the negotiations to one person

If you are buying with a friend or partner make sure that one person does the negotiations. This will avoid any miss-communication between multiple people and allows one person to build a relationship which can impact the willingness of the seller to reduce the price.

There will always be an element of making a decision 'in the moment' and sometimes you will need to go with your gut! Once you have the price agreed there are many other ways to save money when buying your new home and prevent spending money unnecessarily to help give you a little more wiggle room to own your dream home!

The Top 5 Mistakes First Time Buyers Make When Buying

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 12:03:10 GMT

No one likes to make mistakes, especially when buying a home!

Buying your first home is a very exciting experience, but it can also be quite overwhelming without the right tools and information. There are many factors to consider when purchasing a property, and first-time buyers can easily make mistakes that can cost them a lot of money and time, well not on our watch! In this guide, we'll take a look at some of the most common mistakes first-time buyers make and provide tips on how to avoid them.

1. Not researching the market

One of the most common mistakes first-time buyers make is not doing enough research on the housing market. Before you start looking for a property, you should do your homework and find out what's available in your price range. This will give you an idea of what to expect and help you avoid overspending.

2. Not getting pre-approved for a mortgage

Another mistake first-time buyers make is not getting pre-approved for a mortgage. A pre-approval will give you a clear idea of how much you can afford to spend on a property, and it can also help you stand out from other buyers when making an offer. Not having a pre-approval can result in losing out on your dream home to another buyer who are better prepared.

3. Not considering all the costs

First-time buyers often overlook the additional costs associated with purchasing a property, such as legal fees, stamp duty, and moving costs. These costs can add up quickly, so it's important to factor them into your budget before making an offer on a property.

4. Rushing into a purchase

Buying a property is a big decision, and first-time buyers often feel pressure to rush into a purchase. However, it's important to take your time and make an informed decision. Don't be afraid to ask questions and seek advice from professionals before making an offer on a property.

5. Not considering the long-term

First-time buyers often focus on the short-term when purchasing a property, such as the initial cost and location. However, it's important to consider the long-term implications of your purchase, such as the potential for growth in the area and the resale value of the property.

With careful planning and preparation, you can make your first home purchase a success. Good luck!

A Step by Step Guide to Buying Your First Home

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 11:29:53 GMT

A step-by-step Guide To The Home Buying Process And What To Expect Along The Way

Buying a home is an exciting journey, but it can also be overwhelming, especially for first-time buyers. With so many steps involved in the process, it's essential to understand each stage and what to expect along the way. In this guide, we'll take you through the home buying process, step-by-step, and provide top tips to make it as stress-free as possible. This is not an exhaustive list, there is more to know, but for now it's great to understand the basics and get a better understanding of what you can expect.

Step 1: Know your budget

Before starting your home search, it's important to know your budget. Determine how much you can afford to spend on your new home and work out your monthly mortgage payments. Don't forget to factor in additional costs such as stamp duty, legal fees, and moving costs.

Tip: Get a mortgage agreement in principle (AIP) from a lender to give you an idea of how much you can borrow and what your mortgage payments will be.

Step 2: Find a property

The exciting part! Start your property search by looking online or through estate agents' windows. Be sure to view properties in person to get a feel for the home and the neighbourhood.

Tip: Register with local estate agents to receive alerts when new properties become available that match your criteria.

Step 3: Make an offer

Once you've found your dream home, it's time to make an offer. You'll need to negotiate the price with the seller or their estate agent.

Tip: Offer slightly less than the asking price to leave room for negotiation.

Step 4: Hire a solicitor

You'll need a solicitor or conveyancer to handle the legal aspects of buying a home. They'll carry out searches, check the contracts, and transfer the funds.

Tip: Choose a solicitor who specialises in conveyancing and has good reviews.

Step 5: Arrange a survey

Before exchanging contracts, you'll need to arrange for a survey to check the condition of the property.

Tip: Consider getting a full building survey if the property is old or has been renovated. The Mortgage Lender will carry out checks but this may not be as comprehensive as you need it to be.

Step 6: Exchange contracts

Once you're happy with the survey results, the sellers solicitor has answered your enquiries and your mortgage offer is in, it's time to exchange contracts. This legally binds you and the seller to the sale.

Tip: Arrange home insurance to start from the date of exchange.

Step 7: Completion

Completion is when you become the legal owner of the property. Your solicitor will transfer the funds to the seller, and you'll receive the keys to your new home.

Tip: Check the property thoroughly before moving in and take meter readings.

By following these steps and our top tips, you'll be on your way to owning your dream home in no time!

At onthemoov, we understand that the home buying process can be daunting. That's why we offer a range of services to help make it easier, including finding you a solicitor or conveyancer to handle the legal aspects of buying a home. We also have carefully selected partners to help with building insurance, surveys and even mortgages! Contact us today to see how we can help you with your home buying journey.

How to Save for a deposit when buying your first home

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 11:05:12 GMT

Check Out Our Tips and Tricks for Saving Up for That All-Important Deposit

Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, but it can also be a daunting one. One of the biggest challenges for first-time buyers is saving up for the deposit, especially when the price of a skinny caramel latte has gone up by 20%!

The larger the deposit you can afford, the better the mortgage rates you can get, and the less you will have to pay in interest over time. In this post, we'll offer some tips and tricks for saving up for that all-important deposit.

1. Set a Realistic Savings Goal

The first step to saving for a down payment is to set a realistic savings goal. How much do you need to save? A typical deposit is around 10% of the purchase price, but some lenders require as much as 20%. If you're unsure how much you'll need, use a mortgage calculator to estimate your monthly payments and work backwards from there.

2. Create a Budget

Once you have a savings goal in mind, it's time to create a budget. Review your income and expenses to determine how much you can realistically set aside each month for your deposit. Look for areas where you can cut back on expenses, such as dining out or entertainment - don't worry this is only short term, that cheeky Nandos can wait!

3. Open a High-Interest Savings Account

It's important to put your savings in a high-interest savings account to make the most of your money. Look for a savings account with a competitive interest rate and no fees. There may be a government scheme to help you with this that offers great benefits!

4. Automate Your Savings

Set up an automatic savings plan to make saving for your deposit easier. You can set up a standing order to transfer a fixed amount of money from your current account to your savings account, make sure you're strict on yourself to keep this money in here and not draw it out!

5. Look for Additional Sources of Income

Consider taking on a side hustle or selling unwanted items to generate additional income. Every little bit helps when it comes to saving for a down payment and who knows what you have lying around!

6. Avoid Large Purchases

Avoid making large purchases, such as a new car, until after you've bought your home. Large purchases can eat into your savings and make it harder to reach your down payment goal. Purchasing anything through finance can also effect the amount you can borrow and therefore the deposit amount you will need to put down.

In summary, saving for a deposit takes time and effort, but it's worth it in the end. The short term cut backs you may need to make will add towards the long term benefit of owning your first home and enjoying everything that comes with it.

Disclaimer: The above blog post is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be financial advice. It is important to consult with a financial advisor or property lawyer before making any financial decisions related to purchasing a home. The information provided in this post may not be suitable for everyone, and individual circumstances may vary. Onthemoov is not a financial advisor or property lawyer and does not provide financial advice or legal services. Please consult with a qualified professional before making any financial decisions.

10 ways to find the right Solicitor for you!

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 10:41:27 GMT

Ever wondered what to look out for when choosing a Solicitor for moving home? Then check out our top 10 tips for finding yours!

It's no secret that buying or selling a house can be a daunting task. It's not something you do every day and it's usually one of the biggest financial decisions you can make and with many things to consider when taking the big step.

One of the most important aspects of the home buying process is finding the right solicitor to help you through the legal aspects of the transaction and usually the part we have the least amount of knowledge on. Here are ten ways to find the best solicitor for your move:

Responsiveness: A good solicitor should be quick to respond to your inquiries and provide you with information about their services. Make sure you feel comfortable communicating with them because you will need to when you start the process.
Contact Information: Look for a solicitor whose website includes photos and direct contact information for their conveyancers. This will help you feel more connected to your legal team and know who is on the other side of the phone.
Accreditation: Choose a firm that has the Conveyancing Quality Scheme (CQS) accreditation. This ensures that they are providing a high level of service and are held to a high standard.
Authority: Make sure the solicitor you choose does not need authorisation from a senior solicitor to exchange. This will save you time and money.
Timeframe: Ask about their exchange times and what you can expect for yours. It’s important to have a rough idea of how long the process will take and although it is not possible to give exact dates they can give their averages.
Backup: Find out if the solicitor has a colleague who will work on your case if they are on annual leave or off sick. This ensures that your case will continue to progress even if your solicitor is not available.
Fees: Look for a solicitor who does not try to negotiate with you on their fees. Transparency in pricing is important to avoid surprises down the road and a great solicitor knows they are worth what they charge.
Protection: Make sure the solicitor offers protection in case your transaction falls through. This is important, as one in three transactions do not complete and you do not want to be left out of pocket.
Direct Communication: Find out if you can speak directly to your solicitor if you need to. Some firms only use systems to update their clients, which can be frustrating if you have questions.
Reviews: Check out online reviews of the solicitor you are considering. Positive reviews from previous clients are a good sign that they provide quality service.

Now that you know what to look for in a solicitor, it’s time to start your search!

At onthemoov, we can help you find the right solicitor for your move. We specialise in helping people that may not have the knowledge of moving home navigate the home buying and selling process, and we work with a network of trusted solicitors who meet our high standards.