When you’re buying or selling a home, one of the first professionals you’ll need is a conveyancer – the legal expert responsible for managing the transfer of property ownership. Traditionally, this role was fulfilled by a local solicitor or law firm you’d meet face-to-face. But in recent years, online conveyancing has surged in popularity, offering speed, affordability, and digital convenience.
So how do you choose between the two? Should you stick to a local high street solicitor or embrace a tech-led solution? In this article, we’ll explore the differences, pros and cons, and help you decide which route makes the most sense for your property transaction.
What Is Conveyancing?
Conveyancing is the legal process of transferring a property from one owner to another. Whether you’re buying or selling, a property conveyancer is responsible for ensuring everything is legally sound – from conducting local authority searches to drafting contracts and liaising with mortgage lenders.
You can choose either a residential conveyancer (a specialist in property law) or a solicitor who offers conveyancing as part of their legal services. Both are qualified, but the experience and service model can vary dramatically between online and traditional approaches.
What Is Online Conveyancing?
Online conveyancing services operate mostly (or entirely) remotely. You’ll usually interact with your legal team via email, phone, or an online portal. Documents are often signed electronically, and some providers even offer 24/7 case tracking so you can monitor progress at your convenience.
These services tend to focus on volume and efficiency – streamlining the process using technology and standardised workflows. They’re especially popular with buyers and sellers looking for fast, affordable service without the need for face-to-face meetings.
What Is Traditional Conveyancing?
Traditional conveyancing is typically offered by a local solicitor or high street law firm. You’ll often meet your solicitor in person, particularly when signing contracts or discussing complex issues. This approach is more relationship-driven and personalised – ideal if you value one-on-one service and local knowledge.
Traditional firms may also offer a wider range of services, which is helpful if your property transaction is legally complex and requires support from other departments, such as family or probate law.
Pros and Cons of Online Conveyancing
Pros:
- Lower costs: Online firms often charge less, thanks to reduced overheads and scalable operations.
- Speed and efficiency: Digital processes, e-signatures, and real-time updates can help speed up transactions.
- Convenience: You can manage everything from home – no need for office visits or printing documents.
Cons:
- Less personalised: You may deal with multiple people or automated systems, which can feel impersonal.
- Variable communication: Some online firms are excellent, but others may be harder to reach or slow to respond.
- Limited local knowledge: Without area-specific insight, issues like regional planning concerns or leasehold quirks may be missed.
Pros and Cons of Traditional Conveyancing
Pros:
- Face-to-face service: Ideal for complex transactions or buyers who prefer in-person communication.
- Local expertise: Knowledge of local councils, estate agents, and property history can be an advantage.
- Stronger relationships: A dedicated contact often means better communication and continuity throughout the transaction.
Cons:
- Higher fees: Traditional firms usually have higher operating costs, which can translate to more expensive services.
- Slower turnaround: Paper-based processes or slower office systems may increase transaction times.
- Limited hours: Office-based firms may not offer evening or weekend support, which can be inconvenient.
Which Is Right for You?
The answer largely depends on your preferences, transaction complexity, and budget. Here’s how to decide:
Choose Online Conveyancing If You:
- Are confident handling documents and communication digitally.
- Want a quick, straightforward process for a standard freehold purchase or sale.
- Prioritise price and efficiency over personal service.
- Are comfortable without face-to-face interaction.
Choose Traditional Conveyancing If You:
- Are dealing with a leasehold, shared ownership, or more complex property structure.
- Value one-on-one advice and prefer in-person meetings.
- Want a conveyancer with deep local knowledge and experience.
- Have multiple legal considerations (e.g., probate, trusts, or family law) linked to the transaction.
Key Considerations When Choosing Either Option
Regardless of whether you go online or traditional, here are the factors that matter most:
Regulation and Accreditation
Make sure your conveyancer is regulated by either:
- SRA (Solicitors Regulation Authority) for solicitors
- CLC (Council for Licensed Conveyancers) for licensed conveyancers
Also check if they are accredited by the Conveyancing Quality Scheme (CQS) or offer a regulated residential property law service, which indicates a higher standard of professionalism.
Transparent Pricing
Ask for a full quote that includes:
- Legal fees
- Disbursements (e.g., Land Registry, searches, Stamp Duty)
- Bank transfer charges
- VAT
Ensure there are no hidden fees, especially for leasehold properties or additional services.
Responsiveness
Poor communication is the number one complaint about conveyancers. Ask:
- Will I have a dedicated case handler?
- How often will I receive updates?
- Can I contact you directly if there’s a problem?
Technology and Access
For online services:
- Do they offer secure portals or apps for document upload?
- Are electronic signatures supported?
- Is case tracking available?
For traditional services:
- Do they accept electronic documents or require everything in hard copy?
- How quickly do they respond to queries?
Final Thoughts
Both online and traditional conveyancing services have their strengths – and neither is inherently better. It all comes down to what works best for your situation. If you’re after a fast, cost-effective service and are comfortable managing things digitally, an online property conveyancer may be the perfect fit. But if you’re buying a more complex home, prefer personalised attention, or want the reassurance of in-person support, a traditional solicitor may better suit your needs.
No matter which route you take, choosing a conveyancer with clear communication, proper regulation, and strong reviews will give you the peace of mind needed for a smooth, stress-free transaction.
