Our Residential Conveyancing team guides clients through buying and selling property, ensuring a smooth, stress-free process.
In our next sit down with the team, we chat to Head of Residential Conveyancing, Karen Hakin.
Name: Karen Hakin
Job title: Head of Residential Conveyancing
What’s your role within the residential conveyancing team, and what does a typical day look like for you?
I’m the Head of Residential Property at Cartridges Law. A typical day for me usually starts with a team check in, to make sure everyone has what they need. I then get started on working through my priority list which can be incredibly varied.
How long have you been with the firm, and what first attracted you to join?
I’ve been at the firm since March 2024. I love the firm’s culture, and its local community feel. Cartridges Law have a great work ethic and are committed to supporting staff in flexible working which helps form a good work/life balance.
What do you enjoy most about working in residential conveyancing?
Being part of an incredible supportive team who are always there to lift each other up.
What’s one thing people might not realise about your job?
How seriously I take feeding my team! A good days work is done on a full stomach and plenty of pick me up snacks.
What’s been a memorable moment or proud achievement during your time here?
I joined the firm at a pivotal moment. They trusted me to set up a new system and build a new team which has been a great achievement. I am really proud of our strong team; we’ve worked together to improve how we support each other – we’re great problem solvers!
How do you approach client care and communication during the conveyancing process?
I approach each client differently. It is important to communicate in the way that best suits each person. Whether it’s email, phone or face to face meetings, we like to ensure we can adapt to all clients needs. Explaining things with no legal jargon is really important. Selling or buying a house can be overwhelming for some, so we try to explain the process without putting too much emphasis on old complicated Latin phrases.
How important is a good relationship with Estate Agents and other providers?
Very! We’ve built strong relationships with local estate agents and we know the importance of keeping them updated regularly. This helps with keeping the process moving – we all have the same goal of a prompt completion.
What’s one piece of advice you often give to clients going through a property transaction?
It is really important to trust the process and have patience. A timeline is good to have but best used as a guide and not an expectation. Issues can arise that aren’t initially obvious, and these can take time to resolve.
How do you stay organised and manage multiple transactions or tasks at once?
Every morning, I write a list of files/tasks that need to be done, then prioritise and work my way through. I find designating Fridays as completion days really helpful – most people want to move on a Friday.
What’s your favourite part of the conveyancing process and why?
Completions! I love the feeling of helping someone move into their new home. The happiness they feel makes the job worth it.
What’s one thing you think makes this firm a great place to work?
My team! We’re lucky, we work together well and all support each other, with plenty of light-hearted moments.
Contact our Residential Conveyancing team for a no obligation quote on your property sale or purchase. Take a look at the property services we offer.