Over the past week, I've had the privilege of observing and participating in some truly transformative discussions within the conveyancing profession.
As someone who has seen and been involved in solutions that work for all stakeholders, it's incredibly encouraging to witness the evolution of our conversations from frustration and resistance to reasoned, professional debate.
This shift is not just promising—it's essential as we navigate the significant changes that are reshaping our profession.
It's important to recognise that this debate has highlighted a clear polarisation of opinions. On one side, there are those who remain entrenched in traditional practices, resisting inevitable changes and even arguing that "the law is not the law," despite it being enforceable from every practical standpoint.
On the other side, we see professionals who, although perhaps initially hesitant, are beginning to assess the situation with a more pragmatic approach. These early voices, like the first swallows of summer, are the beginning of a much-needed professional debate within our field. They are recognising that adapting to new ways of working—whether through digital innovations, rethinking traditional roles, or considering new business models—is necessary to meet the demands of today's market.
I want to clarify that I'm not selling a solution; I'm advocating for one. My approach is independent, and my motivation is to foster a dialogue that helps all stakeholders navigate this paradigm shift. I've witnessed firsthand how effective solutions can be when they are thoughtfully implemented and tailored to benefit everyone involved. Recent discussions have explored potential conflicts of interest if conveyancers were employed directly by estate agents, as is sometimes the case in Scotland. While there are valid concerns, it's this kind of forward-thinking dialogue that allows us to consider new possibilities and adapt them to our own context.
To those who have engaged in these debates with professionalism, openness, and a willingness to explore new ideas—thank you. Your contributions are crucial in helping us move from a place of uncertainty to one of understanding and acceptance of new methods. By continuing to engage in this kind of thoughtful and reasoned dialogue, we can ensure that our profession not only survives but thrives in a rapidly changing environment.
Let's continue to build on this momentum. The road ahead may be challenging, and the polarisation of opinions is real, but with the kind of constructive conversations we've started, I'm confident that we can move forward with both confidence and clarity.
There's no nut so tight it can't be cracked with the right approach.