Has your solicitor just told you they've not received your mortgage offer? Try not to overthink, the likelihood is that there isn't a problem. As long as your mortgage offer has been issued, it could either mean your mortgage adviser hasn't sent it, or your solicitor can't find it.
In this insight, we will explain the steps to take when your solicitor is saying your mortgage offer is not received.
If your mortgage offer hasn't reached your solicitor, there's a straightforward solution: request a re-send of the document from your mortgage provider. This action alone often resolves the issue without further complications.
In most cases, there's no need to panic as this issue can usually be resolved smoothly. Whether it's a matter of miscommunication or misplaced documents, taking the right steps can help ensure a prompt resolution.
To resolve this in the quickest manner follow these steps:
During the mortgage offer stage, both you and your solicitor should receive the document simultaneously via email, thanks to automated systems. First, verify whether you have received your own copy. If you have yours, but your solicitor doesn't, it could suggest an issue with their inbox, their contact details, or their organisational skills. Request that your mortgage adviser re-send your offer, but this time with a read-receipt. That will tell you if your solicitor has opened the mail.
If you do have your mortgage offer, it's a good idea to forward it to your solicitor to prevent any potential delays. However, bear in mind that for security purposes, your solicitor may require an official copy directly from the mortgage provider.
If your solicitor still claims to be without a copy of the mortgage offer, it's essential to double-check the contact details your mortgage adviser has for your solicitor. Make sure they have the correct email address and consider requesting an alternative email in case of a full mailbox. Remember that the mortgage offer is also typically sent by post, so you can anticipate its arrival in the worst-case scenario.
Throughout this process, it is crucial to maintain open communication with both your solicitor and mortgage adviser. Regularly update them on any progress or steps you have taken to resolve the issue. Clear and prompt communication can help streamline the resolution process.
If you have followed all the necessary steps and the issue persists, it may be time to escalate the matter. Contact your mortgage provider's customer service and request to speak with a supervisor or manager who can assist in resolving the missing mortgage offer. E-mails are trackable, it's possible if you make contact with the right person, they can check the send status of the e-mail. By doing this, they can confirm what time the e-mail was sent, if the e-mail bounced or was opened.
In most cases, once your mortgage adviser issues the offer, it should be sent to your solicitor promptly. Since many lenders now transmit mortgage offers electronically, typically via email, the transfer is instantaneous. However, it's important to note that the speed of receiving the mortgage offer also depends on the efficiency of the mortgage adviser and any potential delays caused by external factors.
The time it takes for a mortgage offer to reach your solicitor can vary based on several factors. The process from valuation to mortgage offer generally takes a few days to a week, depending on the workload and efficiency of your mortgage adviser. If your adviser is dealing with a high volume of applications or faces any unexpected circumstances, it could result in slight delays.
Solicitors often required a hard copy of the mortgage offer for their records. However, with the advancements in technology and digital documentation, many solicitors now accept electronic copies of the mortgage offer. This means that a printed hard copy may not be necessary.
Ask your solicitor to determine their requirements. Some solicitors may still prefer to have a hard copy for their files, especially if they are more comfortable working with physical documents.
It is unlikely that your solicitor will accept a copy directly from you to proceed fully with your case as this opens up the risk of fraud.
Discovering that your solicitor has not received your mortgage offer can initially be worrying. But, it is often a minor issue that can be swiftly resolved. By requesting a re-send of the offer, double-checking contact details, and maintaining clear communication, you can overcome this hurdle and proceed with confidence in your home-buying journey.
Stuart is an expert in Property, Money, Banking & Finance, having worked in retail and investment banking for 10+ years before founding Sunny Avenue. Stuart has spent his career studying finance. He holds qualifications in financial studies, mortgage advice & practice, banking operations, dealing & financial markets, derivatives, securities & investments.
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