What is conveyancing?

When buying you need a conveyancer. This is usually a lawyer who specialises in property or a conveyancing solicitor.

The difference between the two is that a conveyancer only works on property while a solicitor can work on a range of legal services. Most people choose a conveyancing solicitor. It’s advisable if your property purchase is a bit more complex; for example if the property is part of a divorce dispute.

What is conveyancing?

Conveyancing deals with all the legal processes that are necessary when buying property. This procedure is necessary when transferring the ownership of a property from one person to another.

If you’re selling your home, you don’t necessarily need legal representation from a conveyancer as the buying process is different. For example, land searches are not necessary when selling. But it is worth using a conveyancer because they understand the processes as they deal with them daily.

Finding a conveyancing solicitor

It’s vital to shop around when choosing a conveyancer. The best are usually those with a lot of experience and a good reputation. Ask friends or family if they have any  recommendations. Online reviews can also be helpful.

We can recommend conveyancers, but it’s your choice. Only ever use a fully accredited conveyancer and check that they’re regulated by either the SRA, CLC, LSS, LSNI or CILEX.

If you’re unsure, you can also search the Law Society’s online database.

What happens during conveyancing? 

•  The process starts with checking your ID as part of due diligence. They also check the house title to make sure everything is as it should be.
•  ‘Searches’ are then carried out. This includes environmental and drainage searches. If there are any potential issues with the land or property, then they will update your mortgage provider.
•  Your conveyancing solicitor will then work with the vendor’s legal representative to progress the transactions. They will iron out any issues that may arise from searches and surveys.
•  If buying, they will check the mortgage offer and deal with any special conditions.
• For those who are in a chain, your conveyancer will work with the other solicitors to arrange dates for exchanging contracts and completion.
• Next, they will prepare a financial statement so you know which funds you need and transfer funds for stop duty, if necessary.
• The final step is registering the change of ownership with the Land Registry.

It all sounds complex but a good conveyancer will explain what’s happening in straight forward terms and should keep in touch with regular updates.

What does it cost?

Budget for around £1,000 for a good conveyancer. This fee covers a lot of the processes involved, for example the cost of searches. You may have to pay fees along the way for certain information. Your conveyancer should outline these fees from the start.

If you would like to chat to us about conveyancing solicitors, then contact our team today.