A conveyancer is a professional who oversees the legal transfer of property from one person to another. They handle all the vital paperwork and processes involved in buying or selling a residential or commercial property.
What does a conveyancer do?
A conveyancer’s main responsibilities include conducting searches to ensure there are no legal issues with the property, reviewing the contract and lease, dealing with the Land Registry, calculating and paying the necessary taxes (such as Stamp Duty), transferring funds between parties, and ensuring the property’s ownership is officially transferred.
Tips on hiring a conveyancer for landlords
Hiring the right conveyancer is crucial to ensure a smooth property buying process. Here are some tips for landlords
1: Do your research on their reputation
Look at online reviews, ask for recommendations from friends or family, and check if they have any complaints lodged against them with relevant professional bodies. A good reputation is a must.
2: Make sure they’re registered with the right bodies
In the UK, conveyancers should be registered with The Council for Licensed Conveyancers, or the CLC. This body regulates and sets standards for licensed conveyancers.
If a conveyancer isn’t registered with the CLC, you may want to consider hiring a solicitor instead, as they are more comprehensively qualified.
3: Make sure you don’t need to hire a solicitor
While conveyancers can handle straightforward property transactions, solicitors may be better suited if you have other legal issues, such as disputes, complex leases, or plans for significant property development.
Solicitors have more extensive legal training and can provide comprehensive legal advice.
4: Make sure you’re being charged the right amount
Conveyancing fees can vary widely, so it’s important to find a fair price. Here’s a table with average conveyancing fees in the UK based on property value:
| Property Value | Average Conveyancing Fee |
|---|---|
| £100,000 – £200,000 | £500 – £800 |
| £200,000 – £500,000 | £800 – £1,200 |
| £500,000 – £1 million | £1,200 – £2,000 |
| Over £1 million | £2,000 + |
While costs should be a consideration, it’s essential to balance fees with the conveyancer’s experience, reputation, and the level of service they provide. Cheaper isn’t always better, especially when dealing with a high-value asset like a property.
Does a conveyancer have to be nearby to you?
The simple answer is no, a conveyancer does not have to be located near you. Conveyancing solicitors and licensed conveyancers can act for clients throughout England and Wales since the process of conveyancing and land ownership is the same across the country.
However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind when deciding whether to use a local conveyancer or one located further away.
Should you use a conveyancer that has been recommended by an estate agent?
It is common for estate agents to suggest a local high street conveyancer to guide your transaction. This can seem convenient as you don’t have to search further for a conveyancer. However, it’s important to be aware that the agent may receive a commission for recommending their own conveyancer, so their focus may not be entirely on finding the best fit for your specific situation.
It’s advisable to shop around and research conveyancers independently to ensure you’re getting the best service at the right price. Check their websites, social media presence, online ratings, and testimonials to gauge their reputation and expertise.
Can you trust conveyancers you find online?
Online conveyancers do not necessarily have a physical office location, and they tend to operate at a higher volume, allowing them to take on more cases. As long as they are regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority or the Council of Licensed Conveyancers, online conveyancers can handle transactions anywhere in England and Wales.
While online conveyancers may lack the personal touch of face-to-face meetings, they often provide more flexible communication options, such as 24/7 coverage through email and secure applications. This can be especially convenient during the stressful periods of contract exchanges and completion dates.
When considering an online conveyancer, review their online presence, ratings, and transparent fee structures to ensure they are reputable and provide good value for money.
If you are looking for more information on property management, you can refer to the resources section for Cozee Properties.
Frequently asked questions
A conveyancer specialises in property law and handles straightforward property transactions. A solicitor, on the other hand, has broader legal training and can assist with more complex property issues, such as disputes or development projects.
The process typically takes 8-12 weeks, but this can vary depending on factors like the complexity of the transaction, chain length, and any delays in obtaining searches or mortgage approvals.
Conveyancing fees vary based on the value of the property. For example, fees range from £500-£800 for properties valued between £100,000 and £200,000, and increase as the property value rises. It’s important to balance cost with the conveyancer’s reputation and quality of service.
No, a conveyancer does not need to be local. Conveyancers can handle transactions throughout England and Wales as property laws are consistent across these regions.
Last Updated on September 30, 2026