Conveyancing Frequently Asked Questions

Conveyancing can feel complex, especially if you are buying or selling a property for the first time. Here are answers to the most frequently asked questions about the conveyancing process in the UK.

Do I Have to Use the Solicitor My Estate Agent Recommends?

No. You do not have to use the solicitor or conveyancer recommended by your estate agent. Estate agents often have referral arrangements with legal firms, which can mean higher fees for you. You are free to compare quotes from other regulated providers and choose the firm that offers the best value and service for your needs.

Do I Have to Use a Local Solicitor?

No. You do not have to use a local solicitor or conveyancer for residential conveyancing in the UK. Modern conveyancing operates effectively through online platforms, phone, and email — the vast majority of work is done remotely regardless of the firm's location. Using a non-local firm can often save you money without any reduction in service quality.

What Are Hidden Conveyancing Fees?

Some providers quote a suspiciously low base fee while omitting disbursements, VAT, or elements of the legal work from the headline figure. When you receive a quote, always ask for a full breakdown that shows:

• The legal fee (what the solicitor charges for their work)
• All disbursements (third-party costs such as searches, Land Registry fees)
• VAT
• Any additional charges such as bank transfer fees or lender representation fees

If a quote looks unusually low, ask the firm to confirm in writing what is and is not included.

Are Conveyancing Quotes Free?

Yes. All conveyancing quotations should be provided free of charge and with no obligation to proceed. Getting multiple quotes before committing is always recommended.

How Much Should I Expect to Pay for Conveyancing?

Conveyancing fees depend on your individual circumstances, including the property value, property type (freehold or leasehold), your location, and whether you are buying, selling, or remortgaging.

Rather than relying on generic estimates, use our conveyancing fees calculator to get an instant online quote direct from a solicitor or licensed conveyancer tailored to your specific transaction.

How Much Does It Cost to Sell a Property?

Conveyancing costs for selling a property typically include a legal fee, disbursements (such as office copy entries from the Land Registry), and VAT. The total is usually lower than the cost of buying. Use our calculator to get an instant quote for your sale.

How Much Does It Cost to Buy a Property?

Conveyancing costs for buying a property include a legal fee, searches (local authority, environmental, drainage), Land Registry registration fees, possible Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT), bank transfer fees, and VAT. These vary significantly depending on the property and your circumstances.

How Long Does Conveyancing Take?

Timelines vary depending on the property type, the length of any chain, search turnaround times, and mortgage offer timing. A simple freehold purchase with no chain can complete in as few as 6–8 weeks, while leasehold transactions or complex chains often take 12–16 weeks or more.

Can I Speed Up the Process?

Yes. The most effective ways to speed up conveyancing include:

• Instructing your solicitor as early as possible — ideally at offer stage
• Completing your ID checks and onboarding paperwork promptly
• Providing all required documents quickly when requested
• Choosing a solicitor who is already on your mortgage lender's approved panel

What Happens If My Purchase Falls Through?

If your purchase does not complete, you may still be liable for some costs — particularly any searches that have already been ordered or third-party disbursements paid on your behalf. Some firms offer no-move-no-fee arrangements that protect you from paying the full legal fee in this scenario — always ask about this when comparing quotes.

Need More Help?

If you have questions about the conveyancing process or want to compare quotes from regulated solicitors and licensed conveyancers across the UK, use our conveyancing fees calculator or contact our team on 0330 043 1202.