Property Conveyancing Process — UK Step by Step Guide

Everything you need to know about buying a property in the UK. From offer accepted to keys in hand — we guide you through every step.

Step-by-Step Conveyancing Process

Average time: 8–12 weeks
Step 1

Offer Accepted

Buyer makes an offer. Seller accepts subject to contract.

Step 2

Instruct a Solicitor

Choose a qualified conveyancer. Provide ID and source of funds for AML checks.

Step 3

Mortgage Application

Apply for mortgage. Lender conducts property valuation.

Step 4

Draft Contract Issued

Seller's solicitor sends contract pack with title deeds and property information forms.

Step 5

Searches & Enquiries

Local authority, environmental, and water & drainage searches are ordered.

Step 6

Survey

Homebuyer report or full structural survey. Optional but strongly recommended.

Step 7

Mortgage Offer Issued

Formal mortgage offer received from the lender.

Step 8

Review & Report

Solicitor reviews all documents and reports findings and risks to the buyer.

Step 9

Exchange of Contracts

Contracts signed by both parties. 10% deposit paid. Completion date agreed. Transaction becomes legally binding.

Step 10

Pre-Completion

Final searches conducted. Transfer deed prepared. Funds requested from lender.

Step 11

Completion

Purchase funds transferred. Keys released to buyer. Ownership officially transferred.

Step 12

Post-Completion

Stamp Duty paid (if applicable). Property registered with HM Land Registry.

Dos and Don'ts

✅ Do These

  • Instruct a solicitor early
  • Respond promptly to document requests
  • Disclose full source of funds
  • Get a survey done
  • Read all documents carefully before signing
  • Ensure buildings insurance is in place at exchange

❌ Avoid These

  • Don't exchange without mortgage approval
  • Don't hide financial information
  • Don't make large financial changes before completion
  • Don't ignore your solicitor's advice
  • Don't assume fixtures are included — always check

Typical Cost Breakdown

Legal Fees

Solicitor / conveyancer: £800–£1,500 + VAT
Searches: £250–£400
Land Registry fee: £20–£910

Mortgage Costs

Arrangement fee: £0–£2,000
Valuation fee: £0–£500
Broker fee: £0–£500

Survey Costs

Homebuyer report: £400–£700
Building survey: £600–£1,500

Other Costs

Deposit: typically 5–10%
Removal costs: £300–£1,500+
Buildings insurance: £100–£300/yr

Buyer Checklist

Before Offer

  • Check affordability and get mortgage agreement in principle (AIP)
  • Research area and property values
  • Budget for extra costs (fees, taxes, moving costs)

After Offer Accepted

  • Instruct solicitor / conveyancer
  • Submit full mortgage application
  • Provide ID and source of funds

During Conveyancing

  • Review all documents sent by solicitor
  • Arrange survey (recommended)
  • Respond quickly to all enquiries and requests
  • Avoid taking new loans or changing jobs

Before Completion

  • Transfer deposit funds to solicitor
  • Arrange removals
  • Set up utilities and services
  • Update address with banks, HMRC, DVLA

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