Buying or selling a home is often described as one of life's most stressful events, and much of that stress can stem from the legal process known as conveyancing. Many people find themselves asking, 'What does my solicitor actually do all day?' Let's demystify this crucial part of your property journey.

The Role of Your Conveyancing Solicitor

Your solicitor acts as your legal guide and protector throughout the property transaction. Their primary goal is to ensure that the transfer of ownership is legally sound, protecting your interests whether you're buying or selling. They handle all the legal paperwork, communicate with the other party's solicitor, and manage the financial aspects of the sale or purchase.

1. The Initial Stages: Searches and Enquiries

Once an offer is accepted, if you're buying, your solicitor will begin the 'due diligence' phase. This involves conducting various searches to uncover any potential issues with the property. These typically include:

• Local Authority Searches: These reveal planning permissions, building control history, and any enforcement notices affecting the property.
• Environmental Searches: Checking for contaminated land, flood risk, and other environmental factors.
• Water and Drainage Searches: Confirming the property is connected to public water and sewerage systems and identifying any public drains within the property boundaries.
• Chancel Repair Liability Search: Determining if the property is liable for contributions to the repair of a local church.

Your solicitor will also raise specific enquiries with the seller's solicitor, asking for clarification on anything from property boundaries to disputes with neighbours. This thorough investigation ensures you have a complete picture of what you're buying.

2. Reviewing and Drafting Contracts

For sellers, your solicitor will prepare the draft contract and send it to the buyer's solicitor. For buyers, your solicitor will meticulously review this contract, along with all supporting documents provided by the seller, such as title deeds and property information forms. They'll check for any clauses that might be disadvantageous to you and negotiate amendments where necessary. This stage is about ensuring the contract accurately reflects the agreed terms and protects your legal position.

3. Exchange of Contracts

This is a significant milestone! Once both parties are satisfied with the contract and all enquiries have been answered, your solicitor will arrange for the exchange of contracts. At this point, the agreement becomes legally binding. A deposit (usually 10% of the purchase price) is paid by the buyer, and a completion date is set. Neither party can pull out without incurring significant financial penalties after exchange.

4. Pre-Completion and Completion Day

Leading up to completion, your solicitor will handle final checks, including requesting funds from your mortgage lender (if applicable) and preparing the transfer deed. On completion day, your solicitor will transfer the remaining funds to the seller's solicitor. Once the seller's solicitor confirms receipt, they will authorise the release of the keys. For sellers, your solicitor will ensure all outstanding mortgages are repaid and transfer any remaining funds to you. For buyers, your solicitor will register your ownership with the Land Registry.

Common Delays and How Your Solicitor Helps

Conveyancing can sometimes face delays, which can be frustrating. Common causes include slow responses to enquiries, issues uncovered during searches, or complexities in the property chain. Your solicitor plays a vital role in proactively chasing information, communicating effectively with all parties, and finding solutions to keep the process moving forward. Their experience in navigating these challenges is invaluable.

Understanding the conveyancing process can certainly ease some of the stress associated with moving home. Your solicitor is an essential partner, working diligently to ensure a smooth and secure transaction for you.

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