Conveyancing is the legal transfer of property ownership from seller to buyer. It is carried out by a solicitor or licensed conveyancer.
Key stages
- Instructing a solicitor (do this as soon as an offer is accepted)
- Draft contract and searches (local authority, environmental, water)
- Mortgage offer (lender's solicitor checks the property)
- Exchange of contracts (legally binding — deposit typically paid)
- Completion (balance transferred, keys handed over)
Typical costs
Conveyancing fees vary but typically range from £1,000–£2,500 for a straightforward purchase. Disbursements (searches, Land Registry fees, stamp duty) are additional. Get three quotes and check what is included.