Buying or selling a home is one of the most significant financial decisions you’ll ever make. Whether you’re a first – time buyer or a seasoned investor, the legal aspects of property transactions can be complex and time – sensitive. This is where a good conveyancer becomes crucial.
But how do you choose the right conveyancing service in the UK? With so many solicitors and online conveyancing firms to pick from, it’s important to understand what to look for – and what to avoid. Here’s a detailed guide to help you make the right choice and ensure your property transaction runs as smoothly as possible.
What is Conveyancing?
Conveyancing is the legal transfer of property ownership from one person to another. It involves a series of steps including title checks, drafting contracts, managing deposits, liaising with mortgage lenders, handling searches, and eventually completing the transaction.
Conveyancers are legal professionals who manage this process. They can either be property conveyancers (licensed specialists) or solicitors who offer conveyancing as part of their legal services. Either way, they play a pivotal role in protecting your interests during the transaction.
Why Choosing the Right Conveyancer Matters
A competent conveyancer ensures the property title is legally sound, identifies any restrictions or issues, and guides you through the entire legal process. A poor service, on the other hand, can delay the process, cause communication breakdowns, and even risk the transaction falling through.
- Decide Between a Solicitor or Licensed Conveyancer
In the UK, both solicitors and licensed conveyancers are qualified to handle property transactions.
- Solicitors are regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) and often offer broader legal services beyond property law.
- Licensed conveyancers, on the other hand, are specialists in property transactions and are regulated by the Council for Licensed Conveyancers (CLC).
If your transaction is straightforward, either will suffice. However, if you anticipate legal complications (such as shared ownership, leasehold properties, or divorce – related sales), a solicitor with experience in residential property law service may be the better option.
- Choose a Specialist in Residential Conveyancing
Make sure the provider you choose has a solid track record in residential property. Not all law firms specialise in this area, so ask direct questions:
- How many residential property transactions have they handled in the past year?
- Are they familiar with local authority searches and planning issues in your area?
- Do they offer fixed – fee quotes, or could costs escalate unexpectedly?
A dedicated residential conveyancer will be well – versed in dealing with all the typical (and not – so – typical) issues that arise in UK home sales and purchases.
- Consider Local Knowledge vs. Online Efficiency
There’s an ongoing debate between using a local firm versus a national or online service.
Local firms often provide a more personalised service and may have better knowledge of regional planning issues, estate agents, or local authorities. If face – to – face meetings are important to you, this may be the right route.
Online conveyancing services, however, can be more cost – effective and offer 24/7 case tracking portals. They’re often quicker due to streamlined processes and centralised operations – but communication quality may vary.
Tip: Look for online firms that still offer a named case handler. Avoid any service that doesn’t provide direct contact with your conveyancer.
- Check for Transparent Pricing
Always request a full breakdown of costs. A good quote should include:
- Legal fees
- Disbursements (e.g., Land Registry fees, searches, Stamp Duty Land Tax)
- VAT
- Bank transfer fees
- Potential extra charges for leaseholds, gifted deposits, or mortgage lender liaison
Avoid services offering suspiciously low quotes – these often come with hidden charges that surface later. Fixed – fee arrangements are generally preferable, especially if you’re on a tight budget.
- Verify Their Credentials and Regulatory Bodies
Ensure your chosen conveyancer is regulated and insured. You can verify this through:
- SRA (Solicitors Regulation Authority) – for solicitors
- CLC (Council for Licensed Conveyancers) – for licensed conveyancers
Also, ask if they’re a member of quality schemes like the Law Society’s Conveyancing Quality Scheme (CQS). This demonstrates they meet high standards of service, professionalism, and compliance.
- Prioritise Communication and Responsiveness
One of the biggest frustrations among home buyers and sellers is poor communication. A good conveyancer should:
- Acknowledge and return emails/calls promptly
- Provide regular progress updates
- Explain legal terms clearly and concisely
You’re entitled to peace of mind during what can be a stressful process – don’t settle for silence. During your initial enquiry, assess their tone, helpfulness, and response time.
- Read Reviews and Ask for Recommendations
Look for genuine client reviews on Google, Trustpilot, or Feefo. Pay attention to mentions of:
- Delays and how they were handled
- Overall transparency
- Staff professionalism
- Communication frequency
You can also ask your estate agent or mortgage broker for referrals – though keep in mind they may receive commission from preferred partners, which could influence their suggestions.
- Ask About Turnaround Times
Delays in conveyancing can derail a property chain. Ask your potential conveyancer:
- What is your average completion time for freehold/leasehold properties?
- How do you handle delays from the other side’s solicitors?
- What’s your workload currently like?
Firms juggling too many cases may not give your transaction the attention it needs. Aim for a team that has the capacity to handle your timeline.
- Make Sure They’re Tech – Enabled
In 2025, there’s no excuse for inefficient paperwork or delays caused by outdated systems. Look for firms that offer:
- Online document signing
- Case tracking portals
- SMS/email progress alerts
- Secure document upload/download features
These tools not only improve convenience but also help reduce overall transaction time.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right conveyancing service is about more than just cost. You need a trusted partner who can navigate the legal maze, communicate clearly, and keep your transaction on track. Whether you opt for a local solicitor or a tech – savvy online property conveyancer, always check their credentials, reputation, and responsiveness before committing.
The stakes are high when buying or selling a home – so take your time, ask questions, and choose a conveyancer who will work with you, not just for you.
