New version has details about specific process changes
The Conveyancing Association (CA), a trade body for the conveyancing industry, has announced updates to its Estate Agent Best Practice Guide.
The guide was initially launched back in December 2014 to help conveyancers and estate agents improve communication between firms as well as to help enhance conveyancing transactions for clients.
“The relationship between conveyancers and agents is very important in order to achieve what everyone in the transaction wants to achieve, which is a purchase or sale that completes on time and gets all stakeholders to where they need to be efficiently,” said Beth Rudolf, director of delivery at the Conveyancing Association.
“Given the changes we have recently seen which impact on the way conveyancers work with agents, particularly in terms of material information provision and the use of Digital ID, now is the time to update it,” she added.
Changes to the guidelines
The new version of the guide adds new detail which specifically covers recent changes to the process, including technological advances and how they might be covered off.
It now covers the provision of Material Information at the start of the house sale and purchase process, as well as Digital-ID and how client ID verification may be shared between the conveyancer and the agent.
Conveyancers and agents are also recommended to have structured progress updates regarding cases, including an agreement on their timeliness, how the updates may be provided, and commitments to returning communications.
The new version also covers predicted exchanges and completions between the conveyancer and agent, as well as how they may work together to deliver this. It establishes a commitment on how they will work with one another in a professional and respectful manner.
“It’s not mandatory for our member firms to follow the guidance, but we believe by doing so, we can secure better working practices between conveyancers and agents, and improve understanding of conveyancing,” said Rudolf.
“By sharing the Material Information efficiently, estate agents can win more business and reduce transaction times, while conveyancers can act in the best interests of their clients and reduce risk, creating a positive home moving experience for all.”
The updated guide can be found on the CA website.
