Conveyancing

We’ll explain what conveyancing is, why it’s important, and provide a clear, step-by-step breakdown of the conveyancing process.

Whether you're a first-time buyer, property investor, or just want to understand how conveyancing works, this guide will help you make sense of it all.

What is Conveyancing?

Conveyancing is the legal process of transferring ownership of a property from one person to another. It ensures that the buyer legally obtains the title to the land and property, along with all the rights that come with it.

This process is typically handled by a licensed conveyancer or conveyancing solicitor, who manages all the legal paperwork, liaises with the other party’s solicitor, conducts property searches, and ensures a smooth transfer of ownership.

What is Conveyancing

Why is Conveyancing Important?

  • The legal ownership of the property is properly transferred
  • There are no hidden legal issues (e.g., unpaid debts, boundary disputes)
  • All necessary checks and searches (e.g., flood risk, planning permission) are completed
  • Stamp duty and Land Registry requirements are fulfilled
  • All contracts are legally binding and fair

Without professional conveyancing services, you could risk legal complications, delays, or even losing your deposit.

Why is Conveyancing Important

Steps in the Conveyancing Process

A step-by-step guide to help you understand the conveyancing process — from instruction to completion.

1. Instruct a Conveyancer or Solicitor: Start by hiring a licensed professional. Choosing a fixed-fee service helps avoid unexpected costs.
2. Complete Initial Paperwork and ID Checks: Your conveyancer sends forms & verifies identity. Sellers must provide property details.
3. Property Information and Seller’s Details: Fixtures, fittings & alterations are disclosed to prepare for contracts.
4. Conduct Legal Property Searches: Searches cover planning, environmental risks, water/drainage, and title checks.
5. Review Draft Contract and Enquiries: The draft is reviewed, and changes may be negotiated to protect your interests.
6. Exchange of Contracts: Both parties sign, deposit is paid, and sale becomes legally binding.
7. Completion Day and Post-Completion Tasks: Buyer pays balance, gets keys, solicitor registers ownership, and pays any Stamp Duty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Residential Conveyancing Fees
  • Sale of Freehold Property: From £850 + VAT (+ disbursements)
  • Purchase of Freehold Property: From £950 + VAT (+ disbursements)
  • Sale of Leasehold Property: From £950 + VAT (+ disbursements)
  • Purchase of Leasehold Property: From £1,150 + VAT (+ disbursements)
  • Remortgage: From £600 + VAT (+ disbursements)
  • Transfer of Equity: From £500 + VAT (+ disbursements)
Typical Disbursements
  • Land Registry Fees – £20–£910
  • Search Fees – £250–£400
  • Bank Transfer Fee – £35 + VAT
  • Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) – based on property price & buyer status
  • Leasehold/Management Pack Fees – £200–£500

  • Dedicated consultant support from start to finish
  • All legal work carried out through 360 Law Services (SRA-regulated)
  • Drafting and reviewing contracts
  • Conducting property searches
  • Liaising with buyers, sellers, lenders, and agents
  • Registering ownership with HM Land Registry
Additional Fees (if applicable)
  • Help to Buy / Shared Ownership – +£200–£300
  • New Build – +£200–£400
  • Deed of Trust – from £250
  • Expedited transactions – case-by-case

  • Sale or Purchase (Freehold): 8–12 weeks
  • Leasehold Transactions: 10–16 weeks (depending on management company)
  • Remortgage: 4–6 weeks