Buying

The Conveyancing Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

admin 16 Mar 2026 2 min read

Conveyancing is the legal process of transferring property ownership. Knowing the steps helps you understand what’s happening and avoid unnecessary delays.

Instructing a solicitor

Once your offer is accepted, you’ll appoint a conveyancer or solicitor to handle the legal work. Choosing an experienced firm can make the process far smoother.

Searches and enquiries

Local authority searches reveal planning and road schemes
Environmental searches flag flood and contamination risks
Your solicitor raises enquiries with the seller’s side

Survey and mortgage

Arrange a survey suited to the property’s age and condition, and ensure your mortgage offer is in place before exchange.

Tip: Respond to your solicitor’s requests promptly — delays in returning paperwork are a common cause of slow sales.

Exchange and completion

At exchange, contracts become legally binding and a deposit is paid. On completion, the balance is transferred and the property is officially yours.

Frequently asked questions

How long does conveyancing take?

It typically takes eight to twelve weeks, though chains and search delays can extend the timeline.

What’s the difference between exchange and completion?

Exchange makes the contract legally binding; completion is when ownership transfers and you get the keys.

Do I need a survey?

A survey is strongly recommended to uncover any issues before you commit to the purchase.

Final thoughts

Conveyancing has many moving parts, but a proactive solicitor and prompt responses from you will keep your purchase on track.