The recurring theme in your letters page over the past few weeks appears to be that conveyancing solicitors are failing adequately to respond to changes in the conveyancing market.

Perhaps conveyancers nationwide should consider these basic tools of the trade:

- Attempt to 'train' your local estate agents with regard to the stages of a conveyancing transaction, and the benefits to all parties of instructing skilled practitioners - fewer problems, faster turnaround, better cash flow, and a positive response to a referral.

- Offer e-mail or fax updates to agents, rather than the incessant telephone calls - it gives you the time (in your own time) to think about the case and provide a satisfactory reply.

- Do not be afraid to be more expensive than some - you will probably be cheaper than others, and you can pitch your fee level at the correct section of the market for your practice.

- Accept a few home truths - the market is being opened to non-qualified practitioners; clients will always be able to find a cheaper quote, although not necessarily locally; the estate agent (although sometimes irritating) should be an ally for a transaction, not an enemy (and yes, you may have to pay for referrals to keep up with the rest of the market).

- Use your marketing to show why and how your practice is different, and believe in it.

The next five years are going to be challenging, sometimes difficult, and full of change - adapt now, conveyancers, or bear the consequences.

Edward Foster, Fosters, Herne Bay, Kent