In a recent episode of the Today’s Conveyancer podcast, Dave Lister, co-founder of X-Press Legal Services, discussed the profound changes he has witnessed over 25 years in the property search and ancillary services industry.
Founded by Dave and his wife Lynne, along with their three adult children, X-Press Legal Services has grown significantly from its origins in Lynne’s publishing days. The business was initially sparked by her role as editor of a franchise magazine, which led to an introduction to the Property Search Group (PSG). This early connection laid the groundwork for what would become a thriving enterprise.
Reflecting on the evolution of the industry, Dave Lister noted the dramatic shifts that have occurred since the company’s inception. “In the beginning, everything was paper-based, and we spent countless hours navigating between local authorities to gather information,” he explained. The transition to digital services has revolutionized the sector, but Dave remains steadfast in his belief that personal interaction remains crucial.
Despite the advances in technology, Dave underscored the irreplaceable value of human touch in the process. “You can’t automate everything; there are too many complexities and nuances,” he said. His recent experience with a client regarding lead mining illustrated the point that while technology can streamline many processes, it cannot entirely replace the human element.
Dave also addressed industry-wide challenges, particularly around data access. He urged the profession to manage expectations regarding data availability. “We need to distinguish between ‘open’ and ‘free’ access,” he said. “Significant investments have been made to build these data sets, and it’s unrealistic to expect them to be available at no cost.”
As Dave approaches a milestone birthday, he remains deeply involved in the business and continues to take pleasure in his work and family collaboration. The Today’s Conveyancer podcast, where Dave shared these insights, is available on various podcast platforms and at www.todaysconveyancer.co.uk. Tune in to stay updated on the latest developments and perspectives in the conveyancing industry.
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