Nina Hood is the head of residential property at Cumbria firm Thomson Hayton Winkley. She is a licensed conveyancer with more than 25 years’ experience in the property sector. Nina leads a 14-strong team of fee earners, trainees and support staff, as well as running a caseload of her own. She is passionate about supporting the wellbeing of her team by ensuring a positive and supportive environment.
What was your career path to your current role?
I started my career in a mortgage broker firm as a sales progressor in 1999. After building good relations with solicitors, I was approached by a local firm to join as a secretary. While in that role, I began studying and, after completing my CILEX Level 3 Paralegal qualification, I was promoted to a fee earner. From there, I continued to build my experience in residential conveyancing, gaining my CLC licence, eventually working my way up to my current position as head of department. It’s been a very hands-on journey.
Did you have any other career ambitions?
When I was younger, I was convinced I was going to be a prison officer, inspired by my love of Prisoner Cell Block H on TV. Thankfully, I ended up in conveyancing instead which is a much better fit. That said, there are some days where some of the skills might come in handy!
What keeps you motivated in your work?
As much as I enjoy helping clients through what is often one of the most important and stressful experiences of their lives, I am very motivated by my team. Supporting them, seeing them develop and creating a positive working environment are important to me.
If you could change one thing about the transaction process, what would it be?
Improving communication and transparency throughout the process. A lot of stress in conveyancing comes from uncertainty, so keeping everyone better informed at each stage would make a huge difference to clients’ experiences.
There have been positive steps in recent years with technology, but there is still more to be done to create greater consistency across the industry.
What has been the best development in conveyancing in the last 20 years?
Technology, without a doubt. Digital systems, online platforms and improved case management tools have made a significant difference in terms of efficiency and accessibility, both for legal professionals and clients. I remember the days of ringing the Land Charges Department and phonetically spelling out a client’s name to get a bankruptcy search result, which was then posted out!
And the worst?
One of the ongoing challenges has been the lack of consistency across the industry. While technology has improved many aspects of conveyancing, not all parts of the process have kept pace, which can lead to delays and frustrations for clients. There has also been a growing expectation to move faster, but this is not always realistic given the number of parties involved.
Do you think conveyancing will ever be fully digitalised?
I think we will continue to see more of the process becoming digitalised, and that’s a positive step in terms of efficiency and accessibility. However, I don’t think conveyancing will ever be fully digital.
Do you think it should be?
Property transactions involve people, emotions and often complex circumstances, so there will always be the need for professional judgement and personal support alongside technology. Technology should enhance the process but not replace the human element. Finding the right balance is key.
What’s the best piece of advice anyone ever gave you regarding your career?
To trust my own judgement and not be afraid to back myself when making decisions and progressing in my career.
What advice would you like to give to someone just starting out?
Be honest with your clients. It is better to under-promise and overachieve. Over the years, I’ve found that if you are clear in your communication and manage your clients’ expectations, it makes a huge difference to their experience and helps build trust. It will also save you a lot of stress in the long run!
Tell us something people may be surprised to know about you…
I took a seven-year break from conveyancing in mid-career to work in estate agency. It gave me a great insight into the process from a different perspective, which has been invaluable, and something I still use in my role today.
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