Oliver Richardson
May 2025
Personal Law
Buying or selling a home is one of the biggest financial transactions most people will ever make. Whether you're a first-time buyer, a seasoned homeowner, or an investor, the conveyancing process can seem complicated. This guide explains what conveyancing is, how it works, and what to expect at each stage.
The definition of conveyancing is the legal process of transferring property ownership from one party to another. The process ensures that everything is legally sound, checks are carried out, and all necessary contracts and financial arrangements are completed correctly.
A solicitor or licensed conveyancer handles the process, ensuring your rights are protected whether you're buying or selling.
If you're buying a property, the conveyancing process involves several key steps:
Once your offer is accepted, you'll need to instruct a solicitor or conveyancer to handle the legal work on your behalf.
Your solicitor will carry out legal checks, including:
Local authority searches – Checking for planning restrictions, road schemes, or other issues affecting the property.
Environmental searches – Identifying risks such as flooding or contamination.
Land Registry checks – Confirming the seller's ownership and identifying any legal restrictions on the property.
The seller's solicitor will send a draft contract, which your solicitor will review. Any issues, such as unclear boundaries or missing planning permissions, will be raised.
If you need a mortgage, your lender will carry out a valuation survey to ensure the property is worth the loan amount. You may also want to arrange a more detailed home survey for peace of mind.
Contracts are exchanged once all checks are complete, and both parties are happy. At this point:
You pay a deposit, typically 5-10% of the purchase price.
The sale becomes legally binding; if you pull out after this, you may lose your deposit.
On the agreed completion date, your solicitor transfers the remaining funds to the seller's solicitor. Once the money is received, you get the keys to your property, and you officially own it.
Your solicitor will then:
Register your ownership with the Land Registry.
Pay any Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) if applicable.
If you're selling a property, the process follows these key steps:
Once you accept an offer, your solicitor will:
Obtain the property title deeds.
Prepare a draft contract for the buyer's solicitor.
Collect information about the property, including warranties, planning permissions, and any leasehold details.
The buyer's solicitor may raise questions based on searches and surveys. Your solicitor will work with you to provide the necessary answers and documents.
Contracts are exchanged once the buyer is satisfied, and the sale becomes legally binding. The buyer pays a deposit, and a completion date is set.
On completion day:
The buyer's solicitor transfers the balance of the purchase price.
Your solicitor redeems any outstanding mortgage on the property.
The keys are handed over, usually via the estate agent.
Once everything is finalised, your solicitor will settle any remaining costs and confirm the transaction is complete.
The conveyancing process usually takes 8-12 weeks, but timescales vary depending on:
The length of the property chain (other buyers and sellers involved).
How quickly mortgage approvals and searches are completed.
Any legal complications, such as disputes over boundaries or property title issues.
Being proactive and providing documents promptly can help speed up the process.
While some people attempt DIY conveyancing, it's a complex legal process where mistakes can be costly. A solicitor ensures that:
All legal checks are completed correctly.
Your rights are protected, especially if issues arise.
The transaction is legally binding, preventing future disputes.
Whether you're buying or selling, using a trusted solicitor will make the process smoother, less stressful, and legally sound.
If you're buying or selling a property and need expert legal guidance, our conveyancing team is here to help. We offer clear, understandable and professional advice to ensure a hassle-free experience.
Contact us today, and let us guide you through the process with confidence.
