With more than 14 years’ experience, Residential Property Solicitor James advises buyers, sellers and property investors on residential conveyancing, freehold and leasehold transactions, remortgages, auction purchases and higher-risk buildings. We caught up with James to discuss what drew him into residential property law, what clients value most and why clear communication makes all the difference.

Finding the Right Fit

Rather than studying law from the outset, James graduated from the University of Bristol with a History degree in 2008.

After speaking with practising lawyers and law graduates about the different career paths available, he realised that property law offered exactly what he was looking for: a varied, client-facing area of law where no two days would ever be the same.

More than 14 years later, that variety is still what keeps him motivated.

“Every transaction is different. Every client has different priorities, different circumstances and different challenges. That constant variety is what keeps the role interesting.”

Every Day Is Different

Ask James what a typical day looks like and the answer is simple: there isn’t one.

His days are spent speaking with clients, progressing transactions and finding practical solutions to the issues that inevitably arise during the buying and selling process.

Whether acting for a first-time buyer, someone remortgaging their home or an experienced property investor, his focus remains the same — helping clients move forward with confidence.

“A large part of my role is keeping clients informed and helping them find practical solutions based on their individual property needs.”

Why Leasehold Work Stands Out

James advises on every aspect of residential conveyancing, from freehold purchases and sales to remortgages, transfers of equity and auction transactions.

However, if asked which area he enjoys most, the answer is immediate.

Leasehold transactions.

“They’re often more complex than freehold matters and every transaction brings its own challenges. That’s what makes them so interesting.”

His experience also extends to advising on higher-risk buildings, an increasingly specialist area following the introduction of the Building Safety Act and ongoing regulatory reforms.

Keeping up to date with constantly evolving legislation is essential to ensuring clients understand both the legal and financial implications before committing to a purchase.

“It’s important that clients understand whether a building is safe for occupation, but also whether any remediation costs could affect them. My role is to make sure they’re fully informed before they proceed.”

Keeping Clients Informed

Buying or selling a home is one of the biggest financial decisions most people will ever make.

James believes clients shouldn’t just receive good legal advice – they should understand it.

“Clients are outcome-focused. They want to avoid unnecessary confusion and stress wherever possible. Our job is to guide them through the process clearly and help them achieve the result they’re looking for.”

That commitment to communication shapes the way he works.

Rather than only contacting clients when something significant happens, James believes regular updates are just as important, even when there has been little progress behind the scenes.

“Even if there’s nothing substantive to report, clients appreciate knowing where things stand. I also make sure I’m available to speak on the phone whenever they need reassurance or have questions.”

A Different Approach to Residential Conveyancing

For James, one of the biggest strengths of Vyman Solicitors is its personal approach.

Rather than treating conveyancing as a volume process, the Residential Property team focuses on building relationships, understanding clients’ objectives and providing practical advice throughout every stage of the transaction.

It is an approach that reflects Vyman’s philosophy of being “Your Trusted Legal Partner to Help Navigate Life’s Key Moments.”

“For me, that means being there throughout one of the biggest moments in someone’s life. It’s about helping clients make informed decisions, removing uncertainty wherever possible and making sure they always know someone is looking after their interests.”

Speak to James and Our Residential Property Team

Whether you are buying your first home, selling a property, remortgaging, purchasing at auction or navigating the complexities of a leasehold transaction or higher-risk building, having the right legal advice can make all the difference.

As part of Vyman Solicitors’ Residential Property team, James works closely with clients to provide clear, practical advice from instruction through to completion. With over 14 years’ experience in residential conveyancing, he understands that every property transaction is unique and believes that regular communication, straightforward advice and a proactive approach are key to helping clients move with confidence.

At Vyman Solicitors, our Residential Property solicitors advise homeowners, first-time buyers, landlords, developers and property investors on a full range of residential property matters, including:

• Residential conveyancing
• Freehold and leasehold transactions
• Buying and selling residential property
• Remortgages and transfers of equity
• Auction purchases
• Higher-risk buildings and building safety matters

Whether you’re taking your first step onto the property ladder or managing a complex residential property transaction, James and the Residential Property team are here to help you navigate every stage of the process with confidence.

To speak with James or a member of our Residential Property team, please get in touch to discuss your transaction.