The coronavirus pandemic that began in 2020 has undoubtedly had an unprecedented impact on people’s behaviour across the world, and pretty much changed life as we know it.
It might seem surprising, then, that despite all the lockdowns, the UK property market has remained buoyant, with existing homeowners and first-time buyers continuing to buy and sell, albeit with the COVID-secure process taking a little longer than usual.
And we’re pleased as punch to say the latest conveyancing expert to join our team, property lawyer Rebecca Sutton, is busy helping Hull and East Riding residents make the move into their dream homes – as well as supporting commercial buyers and sellers.
“This past year I’ve been really impressed with the way all professionals involved in the conveyancing process have worked together and adapted to the changes and new ways of working,” Rebecca explained. “Everyone has pulled together and kept the lines of communication open, even if their offices have had to close, so we can still concentrate on doing our jobs and helping people buy and sell property safely, and of course as quickly as possible.”
Stress reliever
It’s natural for anyone who is selling and/or buying a property to experience a whole host of emotions, worries and anxieties, especially as in some cases the process can feel as if it’s taking rather a long time!
Rebecca shoulders some of that responsibility by easing those stresses and strains, and making the process as smooth and speedy as possible. And she understands it’s not just about bricks and mortar, it’s about people and families, and it’s their hopes and dreams that are at stake.
“It’s not just a transaction, it’s personal,” said Rebecca. “I like the fact that every client is an individual, everyone’s needs are unique, and every transaction is different. I am quite a chatty person and enjoy talking with my clients and finding out why they are moving and their reasons for choosing this special property, whether they are downsizing, needing a bigger home for an expanding family, or investing in their first shop or office premises.
“I’m a good listener, I pay attention to what my clients want, and I always do my utmost to be as proactive as possible and advocate for them. We’ve all been there, we’ve all been in those shoes, and I know how it feels. I’m there to take care of all the paperwork and transfer ownership, but they are the ones waiting for the day they can pack the boxes and they do all the physical work, it’s a combined effort.
“It always feels so satisfying to be able to tell a client we’ve achieved completion, I know how much that means to them and it still gives me a buzz.”
Supportive atmosphere
So, after more than 18 years working in residential conveyancing in and around Yorkshire, what does Rebecca make of James Legal? She said: “It’s feels like I’m part of a family, it’s such a friendly and supportive environment. The whole team appreciates the importance of getting a job done as efficiently as possible, but everybody is very calm and this atmosphere really helps when you’re dealing with stressful situations and tight deadlines.”
Outside work, Rebecca enjoys spending time with her husband and two daughters, eating out and a bit of retail therapy in the local shops, and travelling abroad for relaxing holidays – COVID-permitting of course!
If you’d like to speak with Rebecca about your house sale or purchase, contact her via rebecca.sutton@jameslegal.co.uk or 01482 974475 to arrange a free, no-obligation initial chat.