Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, but it can also feel overwhelming, many First-Time Buyers ask us what they should expect from the Conveyancing Process, in this short guide we explain and answer your questions.
First-Time Buyer? Here’s What to Expect from the Conveyancing Process
When buying property, especially for the first time, there’s so much to think about and many decisions to be made. The legal element of the process, known as conveyancing, is often one of the biggest worries for buyers.
If you’re a first-time buyer, understanding what happens during and what to expect from the conveyancing process can help you feel confident and prepared.
What is Conveyancing?
Conveyancing is the legal process of transferring property ownership from the seller to you. It involves a lot of paperwork, checks, and communication between different parties, such as the seller’s solicitor, mortgage lenders, and the local council. Your conveyancing solicitor’s job is to guide you through this process, making sure your interests are protected every step of the way.
Conveyancing covers many essential tasks, from checking the legal title to the property, investigating any restrictions or rights affecting it, to ensuring all contracts are fair and binding. Without a skilled solicitor, buyers can be exposed to costly risks or delays.
The Step-by-Step Conveyancing Process for First-Time Buyers
Here’s a detailed look at what you can expect:
- Offer Accepted: After your offer is accepted, you’ll formally instruct a conveyancing solicitor to act on your behalf.
- Instructing a Solicitor: Your solicitor requests the draft contract and property information from the seller’s solicitor and starts investigating the title.
- Property Searches & Surveys: Your solicitor orders local authority searches to check for planning issues, environmental concerns, and more. You’ll also arrange a property survey to assess the condition of the home.
- Reviewing Contracts: Your solicitor carefully reviews the contract and any additional information from the seller, flagging any unusual clauses or concerns and advising you accordingly.
- Raising Enquiries: If any issues arise from searches or contracts, your solicitor will raise enquiries with the seller’s solicitor to clarify or resolve them.
- Mortgage Offer: If applicable, you’ll receive a mortgage offer once the lender is satisfied with the property and your application.
- Exchange of Contracts: You and the seller sign contracts, and you pay the deposit (typically between 5-10% of the price as a first-time buyer). At this point, the agreement becomes legally binding.
- Completion Day: The remaining funds are transferred, the property ownership is registered in your name, and you receive the keys to your new home.
Conveyancing covers many essential tasks, from checking the legal title to the property, investigating any restrictions or rights affecting it, to ensuring all contracts are fair and binding. Without a skilled solicitor, buyers can be exposed to costly risks or delays.
Common Questions First-Time Buyers Ask
How long does conveyancing take?
Typically between 8 to 12 weeks, but factors such as chain complexity or local searches can affect this.
Do I need to pay Stamp Duty?
Many first-time buyers qualify for Stamp Duty relief up to a certain property value. We’ll help you understand if you’re eligible.
When do I pay the deposit?
Usually at the exchange of contracts.
What’s the difference between exchange and completion?
Exchange legally binds the contract; completion is when ownership transfers and you can move in.
Why Choose a Local Conveyancing Solicitor?
Using a local solicitor in Burnley and Lancashire means easier communication, quicker responses, and in-depth knowledge of the local property market. This includes common issues with older properties, new builds, and localplanning regulations. This expertise helps avoid delays and costly surprises.
At Southerns Solicitors we’re proud to hold the prestigious Conveyancing Quality Scheme (CQS) accreditation from the Law Society, which recognises our commitment to high standards, transparency, and excellent client care.
Our experienced team has helped hundreds of first-time buyers in the North West successfully complete their purchases with confidence and peace of mind. Choosing us means working with a trusted partner who truly understands your needs and the local property landscape.
We’re Here to Help You Every Step of the Way
Buying your first home is a big step, but with the right legal support, it doesn’t have to be stressful. Our dedicated conveyancing team at our head office in Burnley is committed to making the process smooth, clear, and as quick as possible. We keep you informed at every stage and work hard to protect your interests so you can focus on moving into your dream home.
If you’re a first-time buyer ready to take the next step, contact us for a no-obligation quote or an initial consultation.
Let our expert solicitors guide you through the conveyancing process with confidence and care. Your new home is waiting we’re here to help you get there.
If you found our guide for What to Expect from the Conveyancing Process useful, take a look at our other resources on the Southerns website today.
