Major digital reform in the homebuying and selling process is set to gather pace this year delegates at the Conveyancing Association’s Annual Conference were told.
The event, held at The Belfry Hotel & Resort and marking the Association’s 25th anniversary, brought together representatives from across the property sector to examine the future of conveyancing under the theme ‘Conveyancing Under the Spotlight’.
Speakers pointed to a combination of technological development, regulatory consultation and industry collaboration as key drivers of change, with AI, upfront information and wider digital infrastructure all expected to reshape how transactions are handled.
Alongside the focus on innovation, the Conference also addressed immediate operational pressures facing firms, including proposals to charge conveyancers for access to the Lenders’ Handbook, potential tax adviser registration requirements linked to SDLT submissions and suggestions that interest earned on client accounts could be diverted to fund the justice system.
HELPING COMMUNITY
Nicky Heathcote, Non-Executive Chair of Conveyancing Association, says: “In opening the Conference, I wanted to focus on the work we are doing right now on behalf of our members on some very pressing issues.
“These are not abstract debates. They go to the heart of how conveyancing firms operate and serve their clients.
“Also, the recent response to the collapse of a law group also sums up what the CA community stands for and I was heartened by the strength of feeling in the room to help all those impacted.”
HAPPENING NOW
And she adds: “Another clear message from this year’s Conference was that digital change is no longer a future aim, it is happening now and it will gather pace throughout 2026. Over the past 25 years the CA has pushed for a more open, joined-up and efficient home moving process.
“What we heard from our speakers is the tools to support that ambition are now in place, but it will take commitment from every part of the sector to make the most of them. Conveyancers, lenders, agents, tech firms and Government must move in step if we are to see real and lasting improvement.”
RISK AND REWARD
She went on to say: “We also had honest debate about the risks as well as the rewards. Reform of the home buying and selling process, the move towards more upfront information, and the growing use of AI will all shape how firms operate and how clients experience the transaction.
“Our role is to ensure conveyancers have a strong voice in those discussions and any change works in practice, not just in theory. If we keep the focus on better outcomes for clients, then the progress we discussed at Conference can translate into genuine change on the ground.
“I am particularly grateful for the generosity shown at our Charity Dinner, where we raised over £8,000 for Parkinson’s UK. It is a charity very close to my heart, and the funds raised will make a real difference to those living with the condition and to the vital work the charity carries out.”
COLLABORATION AND FOCUS
Eddie Goldsmith, Conference Chair, adds: “This year’s Conference showed how far the sector has come, but also how much work remains.
“Digital tools now offer real scope to improve transparency and speed within the home moving process, yet progress will depend on collaboration and a clear focus on practical delivery.
“It was encouraging to see such open discussion about both the opportunities and the pressures facing conveyancers today.”
