As you may know, buying or selling a property is a thrilling, yet stressful process. With legal complexities and emotions running high, it is often tempting to reach out to the other party directly to smooth things over or seek some answers. But there is no need to rush. While open communication is generally great, direct contact between buyers and sellers can cause serious issues during property transactions. Here’s why:
- Misinformation Mayhem: Buying and selling property involves many complicated legal rules. What seems like a harmless clarification from you could be misinterpreted by the other party, leading to confusion and potential negative legal consequences. It is best to let you conveyancers handle all communication. They are the experts in legal matters and can make sure everything is done correctly.
- Emotional Escalation: When people try to agree on something and then face unexpected challenges, it can cause strong emotions. Direct communication during such moments can quickly turn heated, putting at risk the entire deal. Your conveyancer acts as a buffer, filtering out emotionally charged messages and presenting information professionally, keeping the process civil and focused.
- Unenforceable Agreements: Any verbal agreements made outside the conveyancing process might not hold legal weight. Trust your conveyancer to draft binding contracts that accurately reflect both parties’ intentions, protecting your rights and interests.
- Delays and Missed Deadlines: Talking directly to the other person while also updating your lawyer might cause confusion and slowdown of the process. Letting your conveyancer handle everything related to buying or selling your property makes it easier and faster. They will set clear deadlines and keep things moving smoothly.
- Legal Loopholes and Liabilities: Unwittingly entering into agreements or disclosing sensitive information directly could have unforeseen legal consequences. Your conveyancer is equipped to identify potential risks and ensure both parties adhere to legal requirements, safeguarding you from unnecessary liabilities. This is a very common mistake people make during conveyancing transactions that can lead to significant costs for one or both parties.
But when is direct communication okay?
While the golden rule is to communicate through conveyancers, there are rare exceptions. If a genuinely non-legal, neighbourly interaction arises (borrowing a tool, discussing shared access), a brief, polite exchange might be acceptable. However, always keep your conveyancer informed and avoid discussing anything related to the transaction itself.
Remember:
Your conveyancer is like you guide when buying or selling your property. They will give you advice and take care of all the communication.
Ask questions, express concerns, but let them handle the legal back-and-forth.
By respecting the boundaries of professional communication, you’ll ensure a smoother, safer, and less stressful conveyancing experience for everyone involved.
