Following a turbulent couple of years marked by falling transaction volumes, rising interest rates and an increasingly complex regulatory environment, the industry is at a critical juncture.
Conveyancing transactions have been on a steady decline since Covid-19. Economic pressures, including high inflation and interest rates contributed to the slowdown, as did falling house prices. 2023 saw a 21% decrease in transaction volumes compared to the previous year.1
In the past year, thousands of conveyancers and conveyancing solicitors have left the profession entirely, citing burnout, stress and overwhelming workloads. This environment has led to a worrying drop in the number of active conveyancing firms, particularly impacting midsized practices.
Over the past two years, the number of residential law firms in the UK no longer offering conveyancing services has decreased by 455.2 With rising workloads and limited resources, many more conveyancers are likely to exit the profession, and an additional wave of conveyancing firm closures is expected in 2025.
Despite these challenges, client expectations are higher than ever. Complaints to the Legal Ombudsman have risen, mainly due to communication issues and delays. Research indicates that home buyers seek quicker processes, better communication, and more digital services, reflecting a growing need for modernisation and transparency in the sector and its processes.
Amid these industry-wide challenges, we at Kaur Sutherland have implemented strategic measures to ensure long-term stability while enhancing service quality and supporting our dedicated team.
Following a merger with O’Hare Solicitors in Dumbarton, we have focused on creating a comprehensive legal and property hub. This integrated approach combines conveyancing, estate management, and estate agency services under one roof, offering clients a streamlined and cohesive experience.
Despite rumours of retirement in the air, Gerry O’Hare, Partner at Kaur Sutherland, is confirming he is far from stepping back. Gerry, who has operated from Station Road since founding O’Hare Solicitors in 2009, remains committed to maintaining this location as a vital community resource. With over 40 years in legal practice, he now focuses on a five-year plan to build a unified service hub, combining conveyancing, estate management, and estate agency expertise.
Our Dumbarton office now collaborates closely with Haxton Property Estate Agency, while the Lenzie office partners with Coda Estates. This innovative structure not only enhances service delivery but also ensures that clients receive comprehensive support tailored to their needs from start to finish.
Jus Chall, Operations Director at Kaur Sutherland, highlighted our forward-thinking approach: “We’ve developed a strong, complementary team across our offices. Gerry’s extensive experience in estate law, combined with our conveyancing expertise, allows us to offer an elevated level of support. The growth of our Dumbarton team means we’re well-equipped to meet the evolving demands of today’s property market.”
By prioritising collaboration, modernised services, and client-focused solutions, Kaur Sutherland is setting a new standard in conveyancing; demonstrating that even in challenging times, innovation and commitment can drive success.
To see how our innovative approach can simplify your property journey, get in touch today for a personalised conveyancing quote, and discover how we can help bring your property dreams to life.
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Sources:
The Access Group. (2024). “The state of the UK Conveyancing Market”. September 2024 ed. [online]. Available: https://pages.theaccessgroup.com/LGL-landscape-insight-report-2024_Report-PDF.html. Page 9. Last Accessed: 29/11/24.
Legal Futures, Neil Rose. (Nov 2023). “Number of conveyancing solicitors slumps as market contracts.” [online] Available: https://www.legalfutures.co.uk/latest-news/number-of-conveyancing-solicitors-slumps-as-market-contracts.Last Accessed: 29/11/24.
