One of the most essential steps to buying or selling a home is to instruct a conveyancer. These legal professionals handle the official transfer of property ownership, working behind the scenes to make sure everything is accurate, compliant, and fair.
Whether you’re buying or selling, your conveyancer’s main role is to protect your interests and make sure you understand every part of the legal process. From drafting contracts to checking property titles and chasing searches, they’re your key contact for making sure the transaction stays on track.
Coming up, we’ll take you through what a conveyancer does in England and Wales — and when you can expect each stage to happen.
Need help finding a reliable conveyancer? Speak to your local branch for recommendations.
What your conveyancer will do (and when)
Week 1: Request the title deeds
If you’re selling, your conveyancer will contact your mortgage lender to request the title deeds and confirm ownership. This is the first step in preparing the draft contract.
Week 2: Send out the relevant property forms
You’ll be asked to complete standard forms that provide details about the property, such as the TA6 (Property Information Form) and TA10 (Fixtures and Fittings Form). These help the buyer understand exactly what’s included.
Week 3: Request money on account
To cover initial costs like searches or Land Registry fees, your conveyancer may ask for a small sum upfront. This ensures they can move quickly as soon as the forms are returned.
Week 4: Apply for property searches
Searches are essential when buying. They check for local planning proposals, flood risks, drainage, and anything that might affect your future enjoyment or value of the home.
Week 5: Agree on what’s included in the sale
At this point, both parties will agree which fixtures and fittings are staying with the property — from integrated appliances to curtain poles and light fittings.
Weeks 6–7: Exchange contracts
Once both solicitors are satisfied and mortgage offers are confirmed, contracts are signed by both sides. The buyer’s deposit (usually 10%) is then transferred into the seller’s solicitor’s account, and a fixed completion date is set.
Key steps in the conveyancing process
Establishing ownership
Your conveyancer must confirm who owns the property. If it’s registered, they’ll obtain a copy of the title from HM Land Registry. If unregistered, more investigation is needed, which can take longer.
Contract formation
The seller’s solicitor prepares the draft contract, including agreed sale price, property boundaries, and proposed dates for exchange and completion. If there’s a mortgage to repay, a redemption figure will also be requested from the lender.
Property searches and checks
For buyers, this is a vital step. Your solicitor will carry out a number of legal searches with the local authority and utility providers. These reveal if there are planning applications nearby, restrictions on the property, or any issues with drainage or road access.
Raising and responding to enquiries
The buyer’s conveyancer will often come back with follow-up questions — for example, about recent building work, boundaries, or service charges (if it’s a leasehold property). Your solicitor will coordinate these queries and help you respond.
Final checks before completion
Just before completion, your conveyancer will confirm the transfer of funds, liaise with the buyer’s solicitor, and ensure the mortgage is redeemed. On the day of completion, they’ll notify the estate agent to release the keys once everything is finalised.
Let Country Properties help
Whether you’re buying your first home or selling up to move on, having a great conveyancer by your side makes a big difference. For local expertise and trusted advice, get in touch with your nearest branch to start your move with confidence.
