subject: The Benefits Of Fixed Fee Conveyancing [print this page] When deciding whether to instruct a solicitor you will need to make a considered decision about whether paying them an hourly rate or a fixed fee is most cost effective. There is a simple process to follow. Firstly, as always is the case when dealing with money matters, shop around. Look at a range of firms fixed fee rates for the work that you require doing. Also find out each solicitors hourly rate as a comparison. If what you are enquiring about could be subject to complexities and could take a significant length of time it will probably be in your best interest to agree on a fixed rate fee so you do not end up paying through the nose. However, if the process is expected to be quick and efficient, it will probably be most financially viable to agree upon an hourly rate.
A benefit of a fixed fee service is that it is a case of what you see is what you get. Or more specifically, what you are quoted is what you get. A fixed fee is an all inclusive cost for a service, or bundle of services, so you will not be presented with any nasty surprises further down the line. Issues you (and even sometimes your lawyer) do not foresee will not add any extra costs to your legal fees. There will also be no added costs for any extra services, or services you did not realise you would require but were not included in your hourly quote. In a nutshell, it is far far simpler to get a fixed fee.
In terms of conveyancing, which can sometimes be a lengthly process, prone to hiccups and stalling, it is a particularly cost effective method of approaching your conveyancing fee. A fixed fee has the potential to save you a lot of unnecessary cost.
Do remember that often your fixed fee quote will outline the services which are included in the quote, do not assume that services which as not listed are included as this will incur you extra costs. Make sure all the services you need are included in your quote and be certain to negotiate with you solicitor should you wish to add in more services. If your quote is a little ambiguous do make sure to ascertain exactly what it is that you are signing up for when you agree to pay the fixed fee price.
