Considerations When Choosing a Conveyancer

Conveyancing Expert – 3 Important Things to Consider When Choosing a Conveyancer

Having a conveyancer is crucial when you’re purchasing a property. This is why it’s vital that you find a trusted conveyancing service as it can literally make or break the entire property buying experience for you. Now, this is easier said than done as there are quite a few things that you need to take into consideration when it comes to choosing the right conveyancer. To help simplify things, we thought it would be useful to discuss what you need to think about when hiring a conveyancer. If this is something that you’re interested in, read on as we talk about the 3 important factors that you need to consider when choosing a conveyancer.

Fees

As a property buyer, you’re looking to get the best price possible when it comes to the property that you’re looking at. When it comes to property prices, it’s important that you take all factors into consideration. Seeing as you can’t really purchase property without a conveyancer, you’ll want to take the fees into consideration. Sometimes finding the right service isn’t really the issue. There are many high-quality conveyancing services out there but there aren’t many that offer the right price.

How much price weighs into your final decision will vary depending on your financial situation. Sometimes the price isn’t an issue and you are able to pay any fees without a second thought. However, this isn’t always the case. Some property buyers will need to compare various services to see which is the best for their current situation. When gauging a conveyancer on their fees, be sure to examine the services that they offer, cheapest isn’t always the best.

Duration

It’s not really surprising that the factor that most people take into consideration when it comes to conveyancers is the waiting period. Purchasing property can be a rather stressful experience which is why people want to get it over with as soon as possible. Indeed, the last thing anyone wants is to experience any delays throughout this endeavour. Considering that every buyer or seller needs to wait until conveyancing is done, having a  conveyancer that can get things done correctly and quickly is an absolute luxury. Be sure to talk to your conveyancing service to see how long the entire process will take so that you can manage your expectations and plan around this part of the property purchasing process. 

Competence

Speaking of doing things right, it’s important that you hire a competent conveyancer. Conveyancing is not simple and it requires professionals with the expertise and experience to navigate the issues involved in this type of work. You’ll also want to make sure that they have a keen eye for the most minute of details as any errors in the documentation could result in delays in the home purchasing process. 

Conclusion

We hope this article proves to be useful when it comes to helping you find the right conveyancer. While it may seem rather tedious to have to go through this process, it pays to be diligent and thorough when choosing a conveyancing service. Trust us when we say that finding the best conveyancer can make your entire property purchasing experience infinitely more convenient. 

Conveyancing Expert is your local and online conveyancing solicitors based in Manchester. If you are looking for expert Solicitors for moving house drop us a line and let us see how we can help. To discuss any of the above or if you have any specific queries, please do not hesitate to contact us on 0161 794 7799.

 

Common Conveyancing Myths

Like other industries, residential conveyancing is also filled with myths and controversies that aren’t all true. That may be one of the reasons people think twice about hiring one. 

If you are not familiar with the term “conveyancer,” it refers to qualified lawyers specialising in property law and often focuses only on property transactions. To be considered a conveyancer, one must pass examinations that are required in their field. 

Now that you have a little background on what a conveyancer is, let’s talk about the most common myths about conveyancing that you should never believe:

Myth #1: Conveyancers Are Hard to Get Hold of

Yes, conveyancers are busy, but that doesn’t mean they’re going to ignore their responsibilities or their clients. They know that they have a duty to their clients. It’s a good idea to decide how you would communicate right from the get-go. If you agree on communicating through email, then you shouldn’t be texting or calling unless it’s truly urgent and stick to the agreed-upon method of communication. 

Myth #2: The Cheaper the Service, the Better

While you definitely want value for your money, you should consider that the work your conveyancer will do is a legal matter, and it’s about one of your most important assets, so you shouldn’t skimp on it. Cheap services won’t do you any good because that often means poor quality or even incomplete work. 

Myth #3: You Should Only Work with Local Conveyancers

Similar to the second myth, the scope and area of service is just one factor that should be taken into consideration but not the sole basis for your decision. While it has its perks, it doesn’t mean that you can’t get the same level of service from a conveyancer that’s not from your locality. Remember that you live in the digital age and the entire conveyancing process can easily be done online.

Myth #4: It’s Won’t Be A Good Price if Recommended by My Estate Agent

Many, in fact most, estate agents will work with preferred solicitors and conveyancers. This is because they know the firm very well and have developed relationships with them. They know who to speak to and it can make the process more streamlined. However, your agent can only suggest or recommend a conveyancer, it is entirely up to you if you wish to go ahead with them. If you prefer to use a different conveyancer it shouldn’t make any difference to the outcome overall.

Myth #5: Conveyancing Takes a Long Time

This is not true at all. As long as you choose a reliable and CQS-accredited conveyancer and there are no complications caused by the other party, you can expect conveyancing to be completed within 12-18 weeks. Currently there are many delays due to Covid and Stamp Duty holidays so it is realistic to expect 20+ weeks to complete, even on a simple transaction.

Conclusion

These are just five of the most common myths that you might hear about conveyancing that you should think twice before believing. Like with other industries, the quality of the conveyancing services you get primarily depends on who you work with. Therefore, it is crucial that you choose a conveyancer you can trust and already have a good reputation, so you’ll know what to expect. 

Conveyancing Expert offers high-quality conveyancing services in the UK at reasonable rates. Contact us today to know more about our services and our team!

 

The Home Buying Process: 8 Essential Steps to Take

Homebuying Steps

The journey to becoming a homeowner can be lengthy and winding, but it is very well worth it. No matter where you are in the process, buyers can avoid barriers, minimise uncertainty, and enjoy the process by understanding what to expect throughout every step. 

To help you on your own journey, we will break down the journey to home ownership into eight key steps. Keep reading to better understand the property buying process!

Step #1: Set a Budget

It’s critical to know your budget and view houses that you can realistically afford. If not you are likely to be very disappointed. 

Step #2: Get Pre-Approved

The next step is to apply for a mortgage and get pre-qualified. Pre-qualification for a mortgage gives you a great start as sellers and estate agents know that you’re a serious buyer and have the funds available when making an offer. 

Step #3: Look for Potential Residential Properties

After you have a clear budget, it’s time to start house hunting! Before you begin your search, be practical by separating your wants from your necessities.

Step #4: Make an Offer

When you’ve fallen in love with a home and want to make it your own you need to put in an offer to the estate agent who will then present it to the seller.

Step #5: Negotiate

Depending on your offer and what the seller wants to accept, you may need to negotiate on price and/or terms of your offer. 

Step #6: Instruct a Conveyancer

In order to proceed to legally owning the property you will need to instruct a conveyancer to act on your behalf. 

Step #7: Complete Documentation

As the buyer you will need to complete some legal forms as well as ID checks and searches on the property you want to purchase. Your conveyancer will organise all of this on your behalf and complete all the legal paperwork until exchange and completion takes place.

Step #8: Move Into Your New Home!

Your long-awaited home is now yours! It’s time to begin packing all of your belongings and acclimating to your new neighbourhood. Preparation is essential for reducing the stress of moving.

Pro Tip: Hire a Professional House Buying Solicitor to Manage All Legal Requirements 

When you make an offer on a property, you’ll be asked for your solicitor’s or conveyancer’s name and contact information.

If you’re buying or selling a home, conveyancing is the legal word for transferring ownership.

Contracts will be handled by a solicitor or conveyancer, who will provide legal advice, conduct local council searches, deal with the Land Registry, and transfer funds to pay and purchase your property. It’s a crucial role, so choose wisely!

Conclusion

Purchasing your first house is a significant undertaking. It’s one of the most essential financial investments many people will ever make. Homeownership also comes with many possible stumbling blocks and hidden expenditures. We hope that this post will help you navigate purchasing your first house and provide you with information and recommendations on how to choose your ideal home.

Are you considering the help of a residential property solicitor? Conveyancing Expert is your ally! We will handle all legal aspects of home buying, keep you informed, and assist you by answering questions regarding the process. Give us a call to request a quote!

 

A Quick Step-by-Step Guide to Commercial Leasing

There are many aspects to consider, and leasing the right space is quite a complex task for many business owners. However, a little knowledge goes a long way when it comes to taking a commercial lease. With this, here is a step-by-step guide to help you throughout the process:

Step 1: Appoint a Solicitor

Once you’ve picked out a space and want to begin commercial leasing, it’s time to contact trusted conveyancing solicitors to provide you with a full range of legal services throughout the rest of the process. They will discuss the terms of business and any vital information about your business to relay to the other party. They will also ask for identification documents and money on account for other essential papers.

Step 2: Agree with the Heads of Terms

The agents who arrange the transaction will prepare the heads of terms, which outline the main points of the deal. These documents are not legally binding but will serve as the basis of the legal contracts that follow. 

The heads of terms typically contain the details of both parties, the guarantor’s information (if relevant), the property’s particulars, the lease length, rent payments, deposits, necessary services, and permitted use of the area. Not all deals will have formal heads of terms, but the conveyancing solicitors will have to know what the tenant and landlord have agreed upon.

Step 3: Practise Due Diligence

The landlord’s solicitor will draft a lease based on the agreed heads of terms. They will send it to your solicitor along with the title documents and other relevant paperwork. Your party will have to review and investigate everything regarding the lease. It’s crucial to raise any enquiries and clear up any vagueness in the contracts.

It’s also standard practice to conduct property searches to find out any unaddressed defects. Practising due diligence is an essential part of the commercial leasing process, as it protects you and your organisation from any potential problems that may arise. It may take a couple of weeks to accomplish this step.

Step 4: Reach an Agreement and Sign the Lease

Once everything is in order, it’s time to negotiate and agree upon the lease. The solicitors may continue exchanging and revising the documents until all parties are content with the deal. Afterwards, it’s time to sign the lease and pay all charges.

Step 5: Complete the Process

After the completion of the lease, your solicitor will notify you and will carry out post-completion steps. Depending on the length of the lease, Stamp Duty Land Tax may be payable within 14 days, and it will need to be registered with the Land Registry if the lease duration is over seven years.

Contact Trusted Conveyancing Solicitors Today

The commercial leasing process requires lots of paperwork and a fair amount of time. It can be confusing at first, but with this guide in mind, you can demystify the whole ordeal and ensure that you don’t miss essential steps. Furthermore, your solicitor will also help you each step of the way.

If you’re looking for conveyancing solicitors in Manchester, Conveyancing Expert is here to help. We’ll provide you with expert legal advice and service each step of the leasing or buying process, ensuring that you stay protected and updated. Get a free, no-obligation quote today!

 

What You Need to Know about Equity Transfers

Whatever your reason, you’ll need to complete a transfer of equity. That said, here’s everything you should know about the equity transfer process:

Transfer of Equity Defined

Transferring equity involves adding or removing people from a property’s title deeds. Unlike a sale, at least one of the original owners will remain. No property sale is necessary, but the new list of property owners must be authorised.

Reasons for a Transfer of Equity

  • Divorce or Separation

One of the most prevalent reasons for transferring equity is a broken marriage or long-term, live-in partnership. Whether you’ve separated or divorced, you’ll need to split your assets, starting with conjugal or joint properties.

  • Remarriage or New Long-Term Relationships

You may have purchased the property on your own while you were single before entering a new relationship. You may later want to include your partner in the Deed of Title.

  • Buying Out a Co-owner’s Equity Shares

People are increasingly pooling their resources to buy a property with friends or relatives. This is a sensible method to get on the property ladder, but you may want to buy them out later for whatever purpose. 

  • Reducing Tax Liability

Transferring equity to children or other family members might reduce your tax obligation. The property can be regarded as a gift, lowering the taxes due.

Transferring equity may be an easy process if all parties are in agreement on the final outcome. However, it is critical to examine each transaction on its own merits since the situation can get more complicated when mortgages or conflicts are involved.

The Equity Transfer Process

Once you’ve decided to transfer equity, your lawyer will help with the process. If you are transferring equity as part of your divorce or separation, each party should have their lawyer.

The essential steps are the same regardless of the number of parties and involve the following items:

  • Copy of the Title Deeds

Conveyancing solicitors will first get an official copy of the property’s title. Your lawyer will look for a mortgage or other property limitations and verify each party’s identity.

  • Preparation of Transfer Forms

Once the procedure starts, your lawyer will prepare the transfer deed for signing. 

  • Notify Third Parties Regarding the Transfer

Any third party engaged in the property, such as a mortgage lender, bank or building society, must give written approval. The lender must be a party to the transfer deed if the property is subject to a mortgage.

  • Execute the Deed

After your lawyer has prepared the documentation, you and an independent witness must meet to sign the deed.

  • Immediately Inform the Land Registry

Finally, the Land Registry must be notified of the deed transfer. A cost of about £50 to almost £1000 is charged for this service, depending on the property’s worth.

Conclusion

A basic equity transfer might take 4 to 6 weeks to execute. However, each transaction is unique, and the time it takes to complete varies. If the home has a mortgage, the transfer will take longer as you must obtain formal approval from all lenders. 

Similarly, if the transfer is necessary as part of a broader legal issue, like a divorce yet to be settled in court, the transfer may be delayed until all objections are settled. Once all parties sign the Deed of Transfer, the equity transfer is complete!

Conveyancing Expert can help you transfer equity ownership of your property at an affordable fee. We offer trusted conveyancing services with our team of legal experts that deliver excellent and efficient service to ensure your property transaction is completed with expert legal advice and assistance. Get a free and no-obligation quote today. Contact us now!

The Need to Get a Conveyancing Solicitor for Remortgaging

Should this option ever cross your mind, the best way to start is to find a reliable conveyancing solicitor and have a free conveyancing quote.

Note, however, that remortgaging does not always call for conveyancers; some property transactions can go without them. As certain specifications require additional legal work, it is always a good idea to assess whether you need the guidance of a solicitor.

Situations that Require the Intervention of Conveyancing Solicitors

Simply wave off the idea of getting a solicitor if you only plan to take an advance from your current mortgage deal. But then, in specific circumstances where you decide to add someone to your existing mortgage, it is best to seek legal advice. 

The plan of changing a property’s ownership requires legal power, which will then amend the deeds and provide pertinent documents about the new conditions of ownership. As there is a need to have intervention from a solicitor in adding someone to ownership, such is also the case if you wish to remove someone from the existing contract.

Mortgage offers usually come with available solicitors. If this happens to be your case, then you are left with no other option but to use their service when remortgaging. However, mortgage offers that do not include this give property owners a free pass to pick the best conveyancing service in the market.

Remortgaging is usually processed within a few days, but some applications may take a few weeks to complete. The process timeline heavily relies on the submitted documents and the credit assessment, which evaluates borrowers’ existing financial conditions. To expedite the process, those who wish to remortgage to another lender are suggested to clear all pending discrepancies in the credit report.

Solicitor Fees

Remortgaging is a decision that requires property owners to have sufficient finances. But its usual quotation is expensive, remortgaging fees do not go higher than arranging or getting a mortgage. There is no definite rate since solicitors have varying fees brought about by additional offers such as property surveys and title searches.

Apart from that, there are also other charges to consider, such as a penalty incurred from getting an advance mortgage during a fixed-rate period. Redemption fees may become daunting since mortgage contracts commonly render multiple counts without the borrowers’ knowledge.  

Other conditions that must be considered are the fees required after the release of deeds and an arrangement fee in exchange for high interest rates. Thus, one must conduct a careful assessment of which would be the best setup for the remortgage in the long run.

Conclusion

After a remortgaging agreement was made between a lender and a property owner, the necessary legal and administrative work must be settled. A solicitor, for one, may legally tender ownership rights to solidify what is commonly called “transfer of equity”.

Let Conveyancing Expert do the job for you. Get the best conveyancer in Manchester, all for a price that gets all the taxing aspects of remortgaging covered. Contact us today!

 

How Long Does the Entire Conveyancing Process Take?

The conveyancing phase is a crucial part of the entire buying and selling process of any property. 

If you want any transaction to go smoothly, it needs to undergo conveyancing just like any other property on the market. However, don’t expect this to happen overnight or even in a matter of days. This article should help you get a better idea of how long the entire conveyancing process takes and what to expect from it.

The Conveyancing Process

Generally speaking, conveyancing is going to take anywhere between 8-12 weeks if it goes without any issues. The entire process itself involves a lot of moving parts in the form of documents and paperwork. More often than not, there are many parties involved, not just the buyer and the seller.

The main reason why commercial and residential conveyancing takes a long time to complete is because of several factors that can slow down the sale, which is often beyond the solicitor’s control. Conveyancing firms aren’t usually the ones causing the delay. In fact, it’s in the conveyancing firms’ best interests to process things quickly so they can accommodate more clients. To better understand why the process takes too long, let’s break it down, step by step.

1. Pre-Contract Work (1-2 Weeks)

The moment you accept an offer for a house, or you’re the one who made the offer, and it got accepted, the conveyancing process begins. Both the buyer and seller will need to appoint their own conveyancing solicitors to help them obtain and review the legal documents involved in the sale. If you’re the buyer, your solicitor will speak to the other party’s solicitor for the draft contract and start local searches. This alone could take more or less ten days. However, when local authorities miss their deadlines, this could take up to several more weeks.

2. Mortgage Offer (2-4 Weeks)

Hopefully, before you made an offer on the property, you had a Mortgage Agreement in Principle in place. As your solicitor is processing the searches and the contract, next comes your mortgage offer, which relies on your mortgage lender. This process takes about a month from your application.

3. Drafting a Contract (2-10 Weeks)

While all the other processes are happening, the next step is drafting a contract. This is one of the most arduous parts of the conveyancing process because you need to work with your solicitor to get all the necessary paperwork from the land registry and the seller’s conveyancer. You may have the results of the local searches already done by now, which could also raise some issues that need to be resolved.

4. Exchanging of Contracts (2-4 Weeks)

After all the other processes are done, it’s time to exchange contracts. This could take a week or two or even more, depending on how fast both parties are able to exchange and review the contracts. Even if you finished reviewing everything, you wouldn’t be able to proceed until the seller is also done reviewing their contract. After review and completion, only then can you set a completion date.

Conclusion

Looking at the entire conveyancing process, there’s very little you can do to speed up the process since you and your solicitor can’t control everything and everyone involved. The least you can do is to meet your deadlines and work with a reputable conveyancer in Manchester.

Conveyancing Expert is an online conveyancing practice providing quality conveyancing services. As a team of legal professionals, we make sure to guide all our clients throughout the entire process. Reach out to us when you need trusted conveyancing services in the UK. Get a free conveyancing quote today!

What to Expect When Selling Your House

There’s also the physically taxing job of packing it all away. On top of that, you also have to worry about the legal hoops to jump through to actually sell your home. Well, it’s actually simpler than you’d think. 

What Is Conveyancing?

Conveyancing is the legal word for the transferring of ownership of a home between a seller and a buyer. It looks like a complicated process, but it’s all a matter of putting in the time and due diligence. Here are the things sellers should expect when they want to sell a house.

Instruct a Licensed Conveyancer

A licensed conveyancer will be your representative in charge of collating important information regarding the property you are selling. You’ll need to write and sign a letter of instruction to allow the conveyancer to act on your behalf.

You will be asked to complete a set of questionnaires to better inform your buyer of the state of the home you’re selling. You are required to answer these questions to the best of your ability.

The first form is the Property Information Form (also known as a TA6). This covers general information about the property being sold. For example:

Boundaries – If there are any boundary issues, this includes what areas are their responsibility and what areas are not.

Disputes and Complaints – This can involve neighbours who have received noise complaints.

Environmental Matters – Buyers will want to know if it is prone to flooding, if the home has energy-efficient installations or invasive species like the Japanese Knotweed.

The second form is the Fittings and Contents Form (also known as TA10.) This questionnaire addresses the furniture and fixtures that you are going to sell along with the house. Examples include: 

  • Kitchen appliances such as refrigerators and freezers
  • Curtains and rails
  • Light fixtures
  • Televisions and related accessories
  • Wardrobes and cupboards

It should be noted that your responsibility as a seller is to prevent damage to the property when removing any of these items. You are also responsible for providing replacements for light fittings.

Your solicitor will draft a contract and negotiate with the buyer using the information you provided via the questionnaires. 

Settle Your Mortgage

This part should be easy. Simply pay off your mortgage. This step is essential as you cannot exchange contracts with your buyer otherwise.

Exchange Contracts With the Buyer

After coming to an agreement and having all the paperwork prepped, it’s time to exchange contracts. Normally, this is done by both the buyer’s and the seller’s conveyancers. They ensure that the contracts have no errors or discrepancies.

Completion Day

This day means the transaction is officially complete. You will have to pay your conveyancer their dues for assisting you in this process. Once that is done, it’s time to move out! Your buyer should now have your former home’s keys in hand, and you shall have moved out.

Conclusion

Selling your home may seem like a daunting task. There are quite a few steps from start to finish, so many people who encounter this find it intimidating. However, with the right attitude and a trusted conveyancer at your side, the whole process can be done in a matter of a few months.

Check out Conveyancing Expert today for trusted conveyancing services! We provide expert legal advice and service to help you through the process of selling your home. Contact us for a free, no-obligation quote.

The Buyer’s Guide to the Conveyancing Process – Part 1

You’ll need the guidance and advice of an expert to aid you along the way. What is the reason behind this? What is truly at stake?

In this article, we’ll answer those questions and more as we take you through the conveyancing journey from a buyer’s perspective.

What Does Conveyancing Mean?

Conveyancing refers to the legal procedure of transferring house ownership from a seller to a buyer. The process starts when the seller accepts your offer and finishes when you get the keys (save for a few loose ends tied up afterwards). Understanding what is involved will help to avoid surprises down the line.

Buyers’ Step-by-Step Guide to the Conveyancing Process

The Pre-Offer Stage

1. Apply for a Mortgage Promise

Look around for the best mortgage to fund your purchase. Although the lender with the lowest interest rate may appear the most appealing, you might have other needs like longer repayment schemes or lower documentation requirements, so don’t rush this step.

Obtain quotations, and when you discover the best price, complete all the application paperwork, so the lender provides you with an agreement in principle.

A decision in principle is a statement from the lender indicating the lender will allow you to borrow up to a specific amount for certain conditions, such as the property you make an offer on.

2. Instructing and Hiring a Conveyancer

Instructing is the process of asking a solicitor or licensed conveyancer to work for you.

You must give the estate agent your conveyancer’s contact information as soon as you make your offer. If you have a conveyancer set up in advance of your offer, the estate agent will have an easier time convincing the seller that you are a serious buyer who can close fast.

A conveyancer will give you a Letter of Engagement, a Client Care Letter, and other documents to form the basis of your transaction of their services. Read the contract carefully, especially so you know what the fees are. If you have any questions, now’s the time to ask them.

The Conveyancing Stage

1. Make an Offer

The conveyancing procedure begins once the seller accepts your offer.

The conveyancer will ask the seller to remove the property from the market (i.e. no longer advertise it or show other potential buyers around). Most agencies will advise the seller to do this, provided you give the contact information for your conveyancer (who you must have informed) and arrange a mortgage valuation survey or building survey within 14 days as a show of commitment.

As soon as you provide the estate agent with your conveyancer’s contact information, the agency should send a Memorandum of Sale paperwork to your conveyancer.

Inform your conveyancer that your offer has been accepted and request that they notify you (through email or phone) when the Memorandum of Sale is received. In addition, request a tentative completion date.

2. Obtain Information

Once the information has been provided, the seller’s solicitor will send the contract bundle to your conveyancer, together with the Property Information Form, Property Fittings, and Contents Form.

The paperwork contains vital information regarding the property, such as boundary conflicts, planning authorization, guarantees and warranties, and environmental issues, among other things. The Fittings and Contents Form includes a list of things that will be included in the home sale, such as drapes, blinds, carpets, and so on. 

If the property is on leasehold, the contract bundle will include a copy of the lease. The title deeds identifying the kind of ownership of the property will also be included in the paperwork bundle.

To learn what comes next, proceed to part 2 of the conveyancing process!

3. Perform Property Surveys and Searches

Before you exchange contracts with the seller, your conveyancing solicitor will conduct what is known as ‘searches’ to scope out crucial information about the property and any related hazards.

Your conveyancer will conduct the necessary searches, such as a Local Authority Search. These provide critical information regarding the property, such as:

  • The property line
  • Disputes
  • The right of way
  • Planning restrictions or permits

Other searches may be necessary depending on the property and its area. 

4. Securing the Mortgage

Complete the paperwork necessary by your mortgage provider. When the lender delivers terms and conditions, forward them to your conveyancer so they may arrange for money to be made available when needed.

Your lender is likely to provide you with non-negotiable standard contractual conditions. Your conveyancer should go over them with you and point up any anomalies. 

5. Contract Exchange

Contracts are exchanged, and the Buyer’s solicitor sends the deposit to the Seller’s solicitor, at which time the deal becomes legally binding. As a result, it is critical that the Buyer is 100% certain about proceeding before exchanging, or else they will violate the contract if they change their mind post-exchange.

The buyer’s solicitor prepares the transfer deed and performs various pre-completion administrative tasks. This includes but isn’t limited to conducting pre-completion searches, applying for the mortgage advance from the lender and ensuring that the buyer sends the balance required to complete the purchase to their solicitors in time for the completion date. 

The Seller’s solicitor accepts the purchase deed and responds to requisitions from the Buyer’s solicitor on problems such as mortgage discharge and the sum required from the Buyer on completion.

The work is then completed on the stipulated completion date. The remainder of the purchase price is transferred to the seller’s solicitor, who will then release the keys to the Buyer and pay off any mortgages and legal expenses on the property.

6. Completion

The day the transaction is finalized, the property is handed to you as the new legal owner is known as completion day. Your conveyancer will receive the signed Transfer Deed and the rest of the sale price (minus the deposit previously paid).

Your conveyancing solicitor will request financial information from your mortgage lender. Your conveyancer will collect title deeds, transfer deeds, and documentation of outstanding mortgages.

7. What Happens After

Your solicitor will arrange for any Stamp Duty (if applicable) to be paid to Revenue and Customs at the end of the conveyancing procedure. They will also register you as the property’s new owner with the HM Land Registry, which is required by law within 30 days of the acquisition.

If you bought with a mortgage, HM Land Registry will transmit the title documents to your solicitor and forward them to your lender. If you pay cash, the title deeds will be given to you directly.

Conclusion

The conveyancing procedure begins when you make an offer on the house – or accept an offer on your home – and continues until the property’s keys are exchanged on completion day. Spot cash purchases significantly shorten the conveyancing process, with the need for a mortgage provider removed. The conveyancing procedure takes between 12 and 16 weeks.

Are you looking for local and online conveyancing solicitors based in Manchester? Look no further! Conveyancing Expert provides you with everything you need as a property buyer. If you have any questions about the matter, don’t hesitate to contact us today at 0161 794 7799!

The Truth about Conveyancing – How Much Does It Really Cost?

Conveyancing fees are what you need to pay to ensure the legal side of a house sale or purchase is handled correctly. The fees can be split into two parts: legal fees and disbursements. Legal fees are what the conveyancer or solicitor charges for their services, while disbursements are what third parties charge for different services, such as searches. 

Since conveyancing comes with many tricky things to consider, it’s always best to work with a reputable conveyancer to ensure that all fees and costs remain clear and transparent and that you’re getting the best deals in the market. 

Conveyancing Fees: What Are They?

Your conveyancing fees will depend on a series of factors, such as your location. Regarding your location, you may need to pay additional costs for searches if your property is near a coal mine or a river, for example.

How Much Do Legal Fees Usually Cost?

As mentioned earlier, legal fees will cover the legal portion of the conveyancing fees bill and cover the work that is done by the solicitor themselves. Again, these fees will vary, but a typical range would be £850-£1500, exclusive of the cost of disbursements. Additionally, there are legal fees for leasehold properties as well.

What Are the Main Disbursements?

  • Anti-Money Laundering Checks: These checks will verify your identity. You may need to pay extra if you’re living abroad or a foreign national. 
  • Title Deeds: If you want to sell your property, you’ll need a copy of your Title of Deeds. However, you should note that the cost for leasehold properties may be higher than the freehold.
  • Searches: If you’re buying a property, you’ll need a local authority to search. This will include a drainage search, environmental search, and planning search. You should note, however, that searches may cost around £250-£450.
  • Property Fraud: Before sending money to the property company, you’ll need a legal team to check if the company you’re paying is real. 
  • Transferring Ownership: If you’re transferring ownership of your property, you’ll need to pay the Land Registry the cost of transferring ownership, which could range from £200-£300.

These are only a few of the different disbursements you’ll want to take into account. You’ll also want to note other fees like Stamp Duty Land Tax, Help to Buy Supplement, Gifted Deposits, and more. Of course, speaking to a reputable conveyancer is key to ensure all your fees are covered and you’re not paying extra.

When Do I Pay Conveyancing Fees?

When you plan on working with a conveyancing solicitor, you’ll need to pay a deposit to obtain their services. Sometimes, they could ask up to 10% of the conveyancing fees to keep them protected throughout the process. Usually, you get to settle the rest of the conveyancing fees once the sale has been completed, but don’t be surprised if you’ll have to pay for other fees, like searches, before then.

The Bottom Line: Hiring a Reputable Conveyancer for a Smooth House Buying or Selling Experience

There’s no denying that selling or buying a home comes with different complexities. Because of this, it’s best to work with a credible conveyancer to ensure that all your fees and paperwork are in check for a smooth-flowing house buying or selling experience. Trust us — you wouldn’t want to deal with surprise fees and extra costs, right?

How Can We Help You?

Are you looking for a conveyancer in Swinton? If so, you’ve come to the right place. 

Conveyancing Expert is your legal expert that delivers excellent and efficient services to help protect your property transaction until it’s complete. We make sure that we’re with you every step of the way, offering fantastic legal advice and services.

Get a free and no-obligation quote from us today!