SortRefer has argued that many of the free legal packages offered by lenders are not always the best option for the client.

The online conveyancing portal, which promotes a vetted national panel of conveyancers to brokers through its portal, is hearing from brokers who have recommended remortgages to clients which include a free legals package. Brokers are reporting that the service can be slow, communication that is non-existent or just poor and that the client is not actually fully represented as the conveyancer works for the lender not their client.

SoftRefer’s CEO, Kevin Tunnicliffe, says that free legals are tempting but brokers should explore other avenues. In some cases, recommending a cashback deal (which can cover all or most of the legal costs) could be a better solution and better safeguard their interests.

He said: “Free legals are a great idea and work well as a marketing highlight but like a mirage they promise much, but are not necessarily in the best interests of the client. Brokers need to be able to inform their clients that on ‘free legals’ deals, the lender chooses a conveyancing business based more on cost than quality. This can often lead to delays and lack of communication, which can slow down the transaction.

“Brokers who suggest a remortgage with a cashback component can then recommend a conveyancer with a proven record like SortRefer, where we have a range of Fixed Price Remortgage products that fit in well with cashback products. It ensures that clients have proper representation and a better service.”