Buying or selling a property is one of the most significant financial transactions you will make. The legal process involved – known as conveyancing – ensures that property ownership is transferred smoothly and legally. Conveyancers play a crucial role in handling contracts, conducting searches, managing finances, and ensuring compliance with property laws.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer, moving home, or selling an investment property, understanding the role of conveyancing solicitors can help make the process less stressful. This guide covers everything you need to know about conveyancing, from legal requirements to choosing the property lawyer.
What is conveyancing?
Conveyancing is the legal process of transferring property ownership from one party to another. It involves various stages, including:
- Drafting and reviewing contracts.
- Conducting property searches.
- Managing deposits and financial transactions.
- Ensuring compliance with mortgage lender requirements.
- Registering new ownership with the Land Registry.
A qualified property lawyer ensures that all legal aspects are handled correctly, protecting both buyers and sellers from potential legal issues.
The role of conveyancing solicitors in buying a property
When purchasing a home, a property lawyer carries out several essential tasks:
- Property searches – Investigate local authority records, environmental concerns, and potential planning restrictions.
- Contract review – Examine the contract provided by the seller’s solicitor to ensure fair terms.
- Title and property information review – Examine the legal title and supporting documents. Check the information provided by the seller and raise enquiries on anything missing or unclear.
- Mortgage handling – Liaise with the lender to ensure all conditions are met.
- Drafting and exchanging contracts – Facilitate the exchange of contracts, making the agreement legally binding.
- Completion and registration – Handle the transfer of funds, register ownership with HM Land Registry, and pay any necessary Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT).
- Compliance with Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations that help to prevent property and mortgage fraud.
The role of conveyancing solicitors in selling a property
If you’re selling a property, a property lawyer will:
- Prepare the contract pack – Draft the sale contract and obtain property details.
- Respond to enquiries – Address queries from the buyer’s solicitor.
- Handle mortgage redemption – Arrange for repayment of any existing mortgage.
- Exchange contracts – Facilitate the contract exchange, making the sale legally binding.
- Completion – Confirm receipt of funds and transfer ownership to the buyer.
- Compliance with Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations that help to prevent property and mortgage fraud.
How long does conveyancing take?
The conveyancing process typically takes 13 to 22 weeks, but several factors can affect this timeline, including:
- Delays in obtaining local searches.
- Complications with mortgage approval.
- Property chain delays.
- Legal complexity of title, disputes or title defects.
Hiring an experienced conveyancing solicitor can help reduce delays and ensure a smoother transaction.
How to choose the right property lawyer
Selecting the right property lawyer is crucial for a stress-free property transaction. Consider the following when making your choice:
- Experience – Look for solicitors/lawyers who specialise in residential conveyancing.
- Accreditation – Ensure they are regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) or a member of the Law Society’s Conveyancing Quality Scheme (CQS).
- Transparent fees – Request a full breakdown of costs, including legal fees, search fees, and Land Registry charges.
- Communication – Choose a property lawyer/solicitor who provides regular updates and is easily accessible.
Common issues in conveyancing and how to avoid them
Even with a smooth process, some common challenges can arise, such as:
- Gazumping – When a seller accepts a higher offer after initially agreeing to yours. To avoid this, request the seller to take the property off the market once your offer is accepted.
- Boundary Disputes – Ensure property boundaries are correctly recorded in Land Registry documents.
- Missing Documents – Sellers must ensure all necessary documents, such as building regulation approvals, are available to prevent delays.
- Agreeing dates before you have checked the likelihood of achieving those dates throughout the chain – chains can vary in terms of timescales for all sorts of reasons.
A skilled property lawyer will help navigate these issues and protect your interests.
Case example: A smooth first-time buyer experience
Emma, a first-time buyer, found her dream home but was overwhelmed by the legal process. She hired an experienced conveyancing lawyer, who conducted thorough property searches and identified a planning restriction that could have affected future renovations. Thanks to her solicitor’s advice, she renegotiated the contract terms and successfully completed the purchase without unexpected legal hurdles.
Future trends in conveyancing
The property industry is evolving, and conveyancing is no exception. Key trends include:
- Digital conveyancing – Online portals and e-signatures are streamlining the process, reducing paperwork and delays.
- AI-powered searches – Advanced technology is helping solicitors conduct property searches more efficiently.
- Increased regulation – Stricter regulations are being introduced to combat fraud and ensure consumer protection.
Expert legal support
Whether you are buying or selling, hiring a reliable property lawyer is essential to ensure a smooth transaction. Their expertise can help prevent legal complications, reduce delays, and provide peace of mind throughout the process.
For expert legal assistance, visit our Residential Property Solicitors page.
With one of the largest and most experienced residential conveyancing departments in East Anglia, Fosters’ efficient and friendly team will provide you with the expertise you need to know your property move is legally sound.
Fosters Solicitors are authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority, and are accredited with The Law Society’s Conveyancing Quality Scheme and Lexcel Standard – as well as being holders of the national Customer Service Excellence Mark for our commitment to client care.
Contact us for more information and to get a free online quote.
For further information on conveyancing regulations, check out this guide from the UK Government: Buying or selling your home: Government advice.
This article was produced on the 24th July 2025 for information purposes only and should not be construed or relied upon as specific legal advice.
