Online security is a major topic at the moment and cyber crime is constantly on the rise.

Scams are increasingly inevitable and as a result users must work to protecting themselves. For this reason we’re bringing you our top tips to protect you when buying your new home. 

1. It’s a good idea to use a conveyancer who’s been personally recommended to you by someone you trust.

2. Ideally, choose a local conveyancer who you can drop in and visit if you need to.

3. Buying a house is a really big deal, so don’t scrimp – prioritise recommendations over price. Don’t necessarily go with the cheapest, you have been warned!

4. Advice from the SRA is to “Find a solicitor who’s a member of the Conveyancing Quality Scheme”

5. Ensure the CS is SRA regulated (get their SRA number)

6. Check the solicitors record via the SRA website (‘Consumers’, ‘Check a solicitor’s record’) http://www.sra.org.uk/consumers/solicitor-check.page

7. Read through any disciplinary findings in full
8. If the solicitor is ‘trading as’ something other then their official name, ask yourself why? Are they possibly trying to hide from negative reviews? This is just a thought but might be something worth considering!
9. Google the CS (including official name) for reviews.

10. Find out how the CS will communicate with you and if there will be any limited hours.