Technology has made most aspects of buying and owning property easier. Just imagine (or remember) when you couldn’t browse properties online, but had to rely on paper particulars posted by an estate agent. Or when you couldn’t check out a location or get advice at the click of a mouse.
Even now, however, technology is unlikely to supply all the answers for homebuyers and homeowners. It’s similar to the picture with medical advice: the internet can tell you myriad of possible reasons for the pain in your side, but a doctor or physio is best placed to do something about it.
With legal issues, there are particular risks with over-reliance on technology. Firstly, many websites or advice apps give information based on the law in England and Wales. However, with many legal issues – conveyancing, divorce and separation, arrangements for children, prenuptial and postnuptial agreements, inheritance, and others – Scotland has different rules.
Secondly, solutions for legal issues are rarely one-size-fits-all. Take cohabitation agreements - a simple precaution for anyone buying a home with a partner. As the box shows, they are most effective if they are custom-made for your particular circumstances.
In short, do make use of technology to research your options when you buy, sell or own property, but know its limitations. Getting bespoke advice upfront is often cheaper and simpler than unravelling the consequences of inappropriate decisions.
This article is featured in the Glasgow Property Times - Autumn 2019 and the full magazine can be read here.