Client Portal Overview for Property Transactions

Oct 18, 2024

Lecture on Client Portal for Property Sale and Purchase

Overview of Client Portal

  • The portal is accessible from the first letter sent to clients.
    • Clients receive a username and password.
    • Username and password include the case reference number and a system-generated password.
  • Portal tracks live updates on transactions.
  • GDPR-related data like anti-money laundering is hidden.
  • Estate agents have similar access through an agent portal.

Milestones in Sale Process

  • Categories and Stages:
    • 10 categories on sale, subdivided into stages.
    • Green, orange, red indicators show completion status.
  • Initial Steps:
    • Lawyers instructed upon receiving instruction form.
    • ID checks should be completed within 14 days via Checkboard app.
    • Documents like title, plan, etc. are compiled and sent to buyer's solicitors.
  • Automation and AI:
    • Automated redemption figure requests and chases.
    • Contracts drafted automatically using special coding.
  • Client and Document Interaction:
    • Documents to read and sign are accessible on the portal.
    • PIF, Fiches, Lease Sold forms are completed using e-sign.
    • Documents are submitted online and some require wet signatures.

Process of Handling Issues

  • Potential issues like court orders, third-party payments are flagged.
  • Clients provide necessary documentation or explanations.
  • System automatically generates memos for flagged issues.

Exchange and Completion Process

  • Client Involvement:
    • Clients coordinate with agents to agree on a completion date.
    • System allows continuous exchange attempts without re-authorization.
  • Final Stages:
    • Post-exchange tasks include requesting final redemption figures.
    • Completion involves money transfer and key release.

Purchases Process

  • Initial Setup:
    • Similar instruction and ID check processes as sales.
    • Deeds are downloaded for review and initial inquiries are raised.
  • Search and Contract Pack:
    • Searches are requested and completed in parallel to receiving contract packs from sellers.
    • Contract packs are reviewed for discrepancies or issues.
  • Inquiries and Reporting:
    • Additional inquiries based on contract review.
    • A report on title and request for deposit are sent to the buyer.

Handling of Mortgage and Title

  • Mortgage Offer:
    • Includes the offer, deed, sometimes valuation.
    • Reviewed automatically for standard cases, manually for exceptions.
  • Final Preparation:
    • Pre-exchange papers are sent to the client.
    • Wet signatures required for some documents.

Post-Completion Tasks

  • Final Steps:
    • Balance from clients and funds from lenders confirmed.
    • Stamp duty and AP1 submitted to respective authorities.
  • Agent and System Interaction:
    • Agents view milestones but not GDPR-sensitive data.
    • Clients see live updates of case history.

Additional Notes

  • Avoid unnecessary calls for inquiries; use emails and automated systems.
  • Ensure clients understand the importance of timely document submission and signature.
  • Case management system mirrors portal updates in real-time.