Lawyers key to making Hips a success

Posted: 08 Aug 2007 10:38:08 GMT

Lawyers need to be involved throughout the Home information pack (Hip) process if they are to be a success.

Lawyers need to be involved throughout the Home information pack (Hip) process if they are to be a success.

According to Hipag Services, Hips will only speed up the home-selling process if a lawyer is on hand to make sure everything is completed correctly.

The lawyer will be able to ensure that the pack is comprehensive and this, says Hipag chief executive officer Rob Hailstone, will save a great deal of time.

"The basic Hip will contain only the minimum amount of legal documents – such as office copies and searches," he said.

"When a buyer's lawyer receives the Hip he will, nine times out of ten, find it defective and he will ask the seller's lawyer to obtain important missing information and documentation – taking weeks, if not months.

"In these cases, Hips will not speed matters up, reduce stress or achieve any of the intended benefits, unless you involve a property lawyer from the outset," added Mr Hailstone.

It was revealed recently by the Association of Home Information Pack Providers that the average Hip is being completed in less than 48 hours.

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