Editor's note: This brief was summarised by The Property AI Newsroom from a report by The Negotiator. Read the original article for full details.

Conveyancers Urged to Strengthen Ties with Estate Agents

New research has found that estate agent referrals are the leading factor influencing buyers’ choice of conveyancer, ahead of recommendations from friends and family or online searches. Conveyancers are being encouraged to focus on building relationships with estate agents to secure more instructions in a competitive market.

Lyons Bowe Solicitors conducted research showing that 32% of buyers appointed a conveyancer recommended by their estate agent, making this the largest single source of instructions. In comparison, 25% of buyers relied on recommendations from friends and family, while 19% found a conveyancer through online searches.

The research also revealed that buyers place greater importance on recommendations than on price. Among buyers who considered more than one firm, 38% said a referral or recommendation was the most significant influence on their decision. This compares to 20% who cited price and 11% who were influenced by online reviews.

These findings come as conveyancing firms face increased competition for instructions in a housing market where buyer demand has softened. The report highlights that agent referrals remain a key source of new business for conveyancers.

Paul Lyons, managing director of Lyons Bowe Solicitors, stated that referrals from estate agents continue to play a crucial role in how buyers choose a conveyancer, especially in a subdued market. He emphasised the importance for conveyancers to invest time in building and maintaining strong relationships with local agents, as estate agents prefer to recommend firms they trust to deliver reliable and efficient service.

Lyons also noted that providing strong service levels is essential for conveyancers to maintain agent relationships and generate future recommendations from clients.