The cost of conveyancing

Conveyancing refers to the legal aspects of a property transaction, and includes carrying out searches, drafting and arranging contracts of sale and dealing with stamp duty land tax amongst other things. This is usually done by a professional and expert conveyancer, or property solicitor. It is possible, however to do some of this work yourself to try to keep the conveyancing cost at a minimum.

Conveyancing is a lengthy, pressurised and complicated affair in which many tasks need to be performed all at once. Those who take on conveyancing themselves must be prepared to meet all deadlines, to draft contracts in a particular style and liaise personally with the Land Registry, mortgage lenders, surveyors and many, many more. An example of one of the tasks is to lodge several different documents at the Land Registry within certain time frames, is especially important as missing these deadlines can delay the transaction. These problems can amount to a larger loss of money than had a solicitor’s fees been included in the initial conveyancing cost.

There are a few different categories of conveyancers and property lawyers, such as those with a licence from the Council of Licensed Conveyancers to the general solicitors who also practise in other areas of law. It should be fine to use any solicitor, as they will understand the system, but it is advisable to use a specialist conveyancing solicitor as they will have a better grasp of the necessary skill and knowledge that property transactions require. The conveyancing cost will be different depending on what type of solicitor you instruct so it need not be too expensive. Some estate agents may recommend their own conveyancer, but be aware that this may not be the best-value conveyancer for the type of property you wish to buy or sell.

If you would like to obtain legal advice on the conveyancing then Contact Law can put you in touch with a local specialist property / conveyancing solicitor free of charge. So, if you have any questions on conveyancing cost or would like our help in finding local property / conveyancing solicitors please call us on 0808 129 5758 or complete the web-form above.