What are the steps in the conveyancing process?

Whilst every conveyancing transaction is unique, there are some key stages in the process that always apply.

It is essential that all stages of the conveyancing process are followed, to ensure the transaction is legally binding.  Our specialist conveyancing solicitors will help you navigate this process to make it as straightforward as possible.

A general overview of the conveyancing process for sales and purchases is below.

Please contact us on 01707 329333 or email law@crane-staples.co.uk for further advice.

You may also wish to obtain an instant, online fee estimate here.

For more information about the role of a conveyancing solicitor, please read this article: Do I need a conveyancing solicitor to buy a house?

Sale

Pre-Exchange

1. Confirm instructions, return completed Client Information Form, Property Information Forms, documents relating to the property, ID and payment on account.
2. Land Registry Title Deeds obtained (or Deeds if unregistered property).
3. Contract pack sent to Buyer’s Conveyancer.
4. Mortgage redemption statement requested (if applicable).
5. Buyer’s Conveyancer may raise further enquiries.
6. Replies to additional enquiries.
7. Contract and Transfer Deed signed by Seller.

Exchange

8. Completion date is agreed and fixed.
9. Conveyancers for both Buyer and Seller exchange contracts. Buyer and Seller become legally bound to complete the transaction.
10. Final redemption figure obtained (if applicable).
11. Estate Agent’s account obtained.
12. Completion statement and invoice prepared.

Completion

13. The completion monies are received and the keys are released to the Buyer.
14. The transaction is complete. You leave the property by the agreed time.
15. Mortgage redeemed (if applicable).
16. Balance paid to Seller.

Post-Completion

17. The Transfer Deed and all relevant documents are sent to the Buyer’s Conveyancer.

Purchase

Pre-Exchange

1. Confirm instructions, return completed Client Information Form, ID and payment on account.
2. Contract pack received from Seller’s Conveyancer.
3. Plan and Property Information Forms sent to Buyer.
4. Searches initiated.
5. Mortgage offer received (if applicable).
6. Searches received and additional enquiries raised with Seller’s Conveyancer.
7. Property Report to Buyer – Contract, Stamp Duty Land Tax form and Mortgage Deed (if applicable) signed.
8. Client pays deposit (usually 10%).

Exchange

9. Completion date is agreed and fixed.
10. Conveyancers for both Buyer and Seller exchange contracts. Buyer and Seller become legally bound to complete the transaction.
11. Final Land Registry and Bankruptcy Searches obtained and mortgage funds requested and received (if applicable).
12. Completion statement and invoice prepared.
13. Buyer pays balance to complete.

Completion

14. The Buyer’s Conveyancer sends completion monies to the Seller’s Conveyancer and the Seller’s Conveyancer releases the keys.
15. The SDLT Return is submitted and paid.
16. The transaction is complete. You own the property and can move in.

Post-Completion

17. Once the Transfer Deed is received from the Seller’s Conveyancer, the application to the Land Registry to register the Buyer’s ownership is made.
18. Registration is completed and copy Title Deed is sent to the Buyer (and lender, if applicable).