Property
First sale to use “gamechanger” e-signature completes
The UK’s first-ever property deal using the new qualified electronic signature, which is being trialled by HM Land Registry, was completed this week.
Land Registry moves towards “gamechanger” type of e-signature
HM Land Registry is to pilot the use of qualified electronic signatures that do not need to be witnessed, which it said could be a “gamechanger” for conveyancing.
Solicitors suspended for role in quick-sale property scheme
Two solicitors who breached the trust of vulnerable clients in need of cash by acting in a dodgy quick home sale scheme have been suspended from practice.
Agents call for regulated companies to supply property logbooks
Estate agents have called for the introduction of digital property logbooks, supplied by companies regulated by the government, to help speed up the conveyancing process.
Land Registry to pilot lawyer certificate scheme
HM Land Registry is to pilot a new lawyer certification scheme in the next year to “help provide trust” in the information it receives.
June breaks all records as homebuyers race to beat SDLT deadline
There were more property transactions in June than in any month on record as homebuyers rushed to beat the stamp duty land tax holiday deadline, HM Revenue & Customs revealed today.
Blockchain network aims to provide “missing link” for conveyancing
A house in Kent is the first being sold using a blockchain network that connects conveyancers with estate agents and mortgage lenders.
Conveyancing platform aims to be “central source of truth”
A conveyancing platform which aims to provide a “central source of truth” for buyers, sellers, estate agents and lawyers is being tested by law firms in Kent.
Stay polite and manage expectations, Law Society tells conveyancers
The Law Society has urged under-pressure conveyancers stay civil as they manage the risk that transactions will not complete by the stamp duty deadline at the end of this month.
NAHL to exit conveyancing as it targets PI law firm growth
NAHL plc is set to sell its residential conveyancing business as it looks to focus on growing its personal injury law firm in the wake of a difficult Covid-affected year for the business.
Blog
Amplifying reach through employee-driven thought leadership
Nine in 10 executives believe thought leadership is critical to building authority, yet only a quarter feel they have implemented a robust strategy.
Divorce escrow: asset sales before final settlement
When significant matrimonial assets are sold before a final financial order is agreed, holding the proceeds safely and neutrally can present real practical challenges.
AML lacks clarity – and standards are suffering
If firms are buckling under the pressure of AML regulations, subject to ever-increasing fines, then something is clearly not working as it should be.
