Solicitor and conveyancer guide

A solicitor or licensed conveyancer will handle this process, so it's important to choose the right one.

Your solicitor or conveyancer will:

• Handle contracts and give legal advice
• Carry out local authority searches
• Deal with the Land Registry
• Manage transfer of funds

Find the right one

• Ask friends or family for recommendations
• Get referrals from your lender, mortgage broker or IFA

Search local firms or use directories like:

• Law Society NI
  https://lawsoc-ni.org/using-a-solicitor/find-asolicitor
• Vouched For Northern Ireland
  https://www.vouchedfor.co.uk/IFA-financialadvisor-mortgage/belfast
• Openwork Partnership
  https://www.theopenworkpartnership.com/adviser-search/northern-ireland
• Law Society UK
  https://www.lawsociety.org.uk
• Council for Licensed Conveyancers
  https://www.clc-uk.org

Tip: Always compare from any recommendations or finds in your research to find the best fit.

Things to ask:

• Are they approved by your mortgage lender?
• Are they experienced in new homes?
• Are they members of a professional body?
• What's their complaints procedure?

Also check:

• Location: local firms can be convenient for dropping off documents.
• Availability: ask if they'll be around when you need them.
• Communication: can you track progress, and how will you stay in touch?

Tip: Online firms may be cheaper but may offer less personal service - consider what matters most to you.

Costs

Conveyancing usually costs £800 - £2,000 depending on complexity and property value.

Ask for at least three different quotes, and make sure they include:

• Legal fees (can be fixed, hourly, or % of property price)
• Disbursements (third-party costs like searches)
• VAT (20%)
• Stamp Duty (properties over £425,000)
• Land Registry fees
• Bank transfers, postage, and courier fees

Some extra charges may apply for:

• Co-ownership
• Urgent or complex cases

Summary

• Get multiple quotes
• Compare service, experience, and availability - not just cost
• Choose someone you feel comfortable with
• Confirm all costs and timelines upfront