See how it works

The conveyancing process explained.

Buying a house? Conveyancing is the legal process of transferring property ownership from the seller to you. Here's how the conveyancing process works in England and Wales, from having your offer accepted to collecting your keys

Step 1

Find your new home

You've found your dream home! Once the seller accepts your offer, you're ready to begin the conveyancing process and take the next step towards owning your property.

Step 2

Instruct a solicitor

Appoint a conveyancing solicitor or licensed conveyancer to handle the legal work. Arrange conveyancing through GHL Direct and track your property purchase using our online case tracking system.

Step 3

Searches and legal checks

Your conveyancer reviews the draft contract, orders property searches and raises enquiries with the seller's solicitor. These checks help identify potential legal or property issues before you proceed.

Step 4

Review your mortgage offer

Your conveyancer checks your formal mortgage offer, property search results and replies to legal enquiries. They'll explain any important findings and prepare the documents needed to proceed.

Step 5

Sign and exchange contracts

You'll sign the contract, arrange your exchange deposit and agree a completion date. Once contracts are exchanged, your property purchase becomes legally binding.

Step 6

Complete property purchase

On completion day, your conveyancer transfers the purchase funds to the seller's solicitor. Once received, the keys are released and you can move into your new home!

Step 7

Register your new home

After completion, your conveyancer handles any Stamp Duty Land Tax return and payment due, then registers your ownership with HM Land Registry. Your purchase is officially recorded.

Ready to get a mortgage?

Book a free call with an expert mortgage adviser and find out how much you could borrow.

BOOK YOUR FREE MORTGAGE CALL

Your conveyancing journey

Download your free pdf detailing the conveyancing steps 

Download

YOUR HOME OR PROPERTY MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE.