What Is Conveyancing? A Step-by-Step Breakdown for UK Home Buyers

Introduction: What Is Conveyancing?

Conveyancing is the legal process of transferring ownership of a property from one person to another. It begins once an offer is accepted and continues through to the official completion date —when keys are handed over and legal title is registered.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer or moving up the ladder understanding what happens during conveyancing is essential for a smoother more confident home-buying journey.

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Why Is Conveyancing Important?

Conveyancing ensures that:

• The seller has the legal right to sell the property

• The buyer knows about any restrictions boundaries or risks

• The mortgage lender is protected

• Funds are transferred securely and legally

• Title is properly registered with HM Land Registry

Skipping or rushing conveyancing can lead to costly mistakes legal disputes or even losing your deposit.

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Who Handles Conveyancing?

Conveyancing is typically carried out by a:

• Solicitor (regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority – SRA) or

• Licensed conveyancer (regulated by the Council for Licensed Conveyancers – CLC)

Both are qualified to carry out the legal work required in property transactions.

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Step-by-Step Conveyancing Process in the UK

Step 1: Instruction & ID Verification

You appoint a solicitor/conveyancer who verifies your identity (as per anti-money laundering laws) and issues you with terms of engagement .

Documents needed: Passport/ID proof of address source of funds

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Step 2: Draft Contract & Title Pack (Seller’s Solicitor)

If you're the buyer your solicitor receives:

• The draft sale contract

• The title deeds from the Land Registry

• Property Information Form (TA6)

• Fixtures & Fittings Form (TA10)

• Leasehold pack (if applicable)

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Step 3: Searches and Enquiries

Your solicitor orders searches to uncover potential issues.

Common searches include:

• Local Authority Search (planning road schemes)

• Water & Drainage Search

• Environmental Search (flood risk contamination)

• Chancel Repair & Mining (area-dependent)

They may also raise pre-contract enquiries for clarity (e.g. boundary disputes parking rights).

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Step 4: Mortgage Review & Report

If using a mortgage:

• Lender sends the mortgage offer to your solicitor

• Solicitor ensures terms are aligned

• You receive a report on title and sign the mortgage deed

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Step 5: Contract Signing & Exchange

Once all enquiries and finance are complete:

• You and the seller sign identical contracts

• A completion date is agreed

• The solicitors exchange contracts —making the sale legally binding

At this point you’ll pay your deposit (usually 5–10%).

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Step 6: Final Checks & Pre-Completion

The solicitor conducts:

• Final Land Registry searches

• Prepares completion statement (balance due fees taxes)

• Coordinates stamp duty payment

• Requests mortgage funds from lender

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Step 7: Completion

On the agreed date:

• Your solicitor transfers the funds

• Seller’s solicitor confirms receipt

• Keys are released via the estate agent
  You officially own the property!

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Step 8: Post-Completion & Registration

Your solicitor:

• Pays Stamp Duty Land Tax (within 14 days)

• Registers the property and mortgage with HM Land Registry

• Sends you the Title Information Document

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How Long Does Conveyancing Take?

The average time for conveyancing in the UK is 8 to 12 weeks but it can vary based on:

• Length of the property chain

• Type of property (e.g. leasehold = longer)

• Search delays or legal issues

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How Much Does Conveyancing Cost in the UK?

Always ask for a full breakdown including disbursements (searches Land Registry bank transfer fees etc.)

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Pro Tips for a Smooth Conveyancing Process

Use a licensed solicitor with excellent reviews
Ask for a no move no fee deal if possible
Stay responsive to avoid delays
Upload your solicitor documents to WiseNest to get AI-powered summaries in plain English
Use the WiseNest buyer timeline to track key steps and stay ahead

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Summary: The 8 Stages of Conveyancing

1. Instruction & ID check

2. Receive draft contract & property forms

3. Conduct searches & raise enquiries

4. Check mortgage & sign mortgage deed

5. Exchange contracts

6. Final checks & funds request

7. Completion

8. Stamp duty & registration

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