A person signing a contract, with a model house on the desk

This is a common grumbling from many people trying to get a mortgage through. So let’s look at the potential reasons why solicitors may seem slow in dealing with mortgages:

High volume of work: Solicitors often have a lot of cases to handle at any given time, and mortgages can be a complex legal process that requires a lot of attention to detail. This can lead to delays in getting things done as quickly as you might like.

Communication issues: Solicitors may need to communicate with multiple parties during the mortgage process, including lenders, estate agents, and clients. If there are any communication breakdowns or delays, this can slow down the process.

Legal requirements: Solicitors have to follow strict legal requirements when handling mortgages, including anti-money laundering checks, conducting due diligence and ensuring that all necessary documents are in order. This can take time, but it's important to ensure that everything is done correctly to avoid any legal issues down the line.

Overall, while it can be frustrating to deal with delays in the mortgage process, it's important to remember that solicitors are working to ensure that everything is done correctly and in compliance with the law.

How to choose a solicitor for mortgage work

Choosing a solicitor for mortgage work can be a daunting task, so we’ve put 7 tips together to help you select one that works well for you:

  1. Check for qualifications - Look for a solicitor who specialises in property law and has experience in dealing with mortgage work. Make sure they are licensed and regulated by a professional body, such as the Law Society in the UK
  2. It’s key to ensure your chosen solicitor can work with all lenders, this is especially important when dealing with Buy to Let LTD company transactions
  3. Ask for recommendations - Ask your mortgage adviser, estate agent, or friends and family if they can recommend a solicitor. You can also check online reviews and ratings to get an idea of a solicitor's reputation
  4. Consider their location - It may be more convenient to choose a solicitor who is based near your property, as this can make it easier to meet in person and exchange documents
  5. Ask about fees - It's important to understand how much the solicitor will charge for their services, and what is included in that fee. Some solicitors may charge a fixed fee, while others charge an hourly rate
  6. Communication - Choose a solicitor who is easy to communicate with and provides regular updates on the progress of the mortgage work. You want to be able to get in touch with them when you need to
  7. Availability - Make sure the solicitor you choose is available to take on your mortgage work and can work to your preferred timescales.

Overall, choosing the right solicitor for you can make the mortgage process smoother and less stressful, so take your time to find someone who is experienced, reliable, and has your best interests in mind.