Q&A Can I change my solicitor part way through a sale?

Q: Help! I want to change solicitors part way through my purchase, can I do this?

I’m concerned the online solicitors I instructed some 8 weeks ago will risk my purchase, as they’ve made little progress and rarely communicate with me, the estate agent or other solicitor.

There’s no chain, so a lengthy sales progression wasn’t expected and I’m finding the constant stress of having to chase them difficult to manage.

A:Firstly, I’m sorry, this is so frustrating. You’ve put your trust in professionals and they should be providing a better service.

Having worked with the majority of York and Tadcaster based solicitors for almost 20 years, I get a feel as to which offer a good service, always recommending my clients and their buyers, to use a local and preferably independent, residential property solicitor. It’s a matter of personal opinion, however mine is that I would pick a local independent over a cheap online solicitor every time.

You absolutely can change solicitors, though it may cost you money and time. The stress saved by having a good property team should, in my opinion, more than cover the monetary cost.

I would initially advise asking your estate agents for their advice, as they will know the transaction details inside out. However, if you are set on your decision, be sure to inform them of your new solicitor, so they can issue a new Notification of Sale.

If you’ve already paid for your searches and survey, you should be able to bring them with you, but your new solicitor will confirm the details of the switching process. Do remember to check that your mortgage offer can be amended for your new solicitor too.

I wish you the best of luck with your purchase.