What Exactly Does a Conveyancing Lawyer Do?

The housing market has been extremely buoyant over the past few months, with many people choosing to sell up and move on post pandemic. The process of buying or selling a property is called conveyancing. Once an offer on a property is accepted, the seller is responsible for drawing up a legal contract to start the process to transfer ownership. This is where a conveyancing lawyer comes in (also called a conveyancer).

Transferring Ownership

The process of transferring ownership of a property is called conveyancing. Although it is technically possible to conduct the conveyancing process yourself, it is often quite complex and can be very challenging. It is, therefore, always advisable to instruct a conveyancer to undertake the conveyancing process on your behalf.

The Legal Contract

The legal contract will contain a variety of details, including the following:

• The sale price
• The property boundaries
• Details of which fixtures and fittings are included
• Any legal restrictions or rights, for example public footpaths or access rules
• Planning restrictions
• Services to the property, for example drainage and gas

It is the responsibility of the conveyancer to draft the contract, answer any questions from the buyer’s conveyancer (with the seller’s help), and if necessary, negotiate the details of the contract, including a suitable date to complete and transfer ownership. The conveyancer will also carry out a local council search, deal with the Land Registry, and transfer the funds to pay for your property, as well as offering wider legal advice.

Instructing a Conveyancer

Once an offer has been made on a property and accepted, the seller and the buyer alike will need to instruct separate conveyancers.  If you are selling the property, you will need to give your conveyancer details of your buyer, the property that you are selling, and how much you are selling it for. If you are the buying, you will be asked to pass on details about the property you are buying, the estate agent, your mortgage lender, and the seller’s solicitor.

Why Should I Instruct a Conveyancer?

Enlisting a reputable conveyancer is obviously really important when it comes to buying or selling a property. Buying a house will probably one of the largest purchases of your life, so it’s well worth instructing an expert to ensure that everything is carried out as it should be in terms of the law, and to avoid expensive mistakes down the line. A reputable conveyancer will ensure that all the appropriate searches are undertaken and that you are covered should anything not go to plan. A personalised, professional, and proactive approach from your conveyancer is key.

Here at RDC solicitors, our professional and experienced team are always on hand to provide advice and support during the process of selling your home. Our property team is committed to making sure you receive a first-class service for every aspect of your transaction. If you have any questions or need further information, please give us a call on the following numbers:

Bingley        01274 723858
Ilkley            01943 601173
Bradford      01274 735511