What is conveyancing, and how long does it take?

What conveyancing involves

Whether you are buying or selling, conveyancing covers all the legal and administrative tasks needed to finalise a property transaction:

• Checking ownership and title documents.
• Carrying out searches such as local authority, drainage and environmental checks.
• Reviewing contracts and negotiating terms.
• Arranging mortgage paperwork and acting for the lender (if you're buying).
• Handling exchange of contracts - where the agreement becomes legally binding.
• Managing completion - where funds are transferred and keys are released.
• Registering the new owner with HM Land Registry.

A clear step-by-step conveyancing process

Step 1: Instruction of your conveyancer

You formally appoint a solicitor or licensed conveyancer. They provide initial paperwork, verify your identity and outline the likely costs and timeline.

Step 2: Pre-contract work begins

• Sellers complete property information forms (TA6, TA10, TA7).
• Buyers provide ID, proof of funds and mortgage details.
• Estate agents issue the memorandum of sale to all parties.

Step 3: Contract pack issued

The seller's solicitor sends the contract pack to the buyer's solicitor. This includes title deeds, property information forms, lease details (if leasehold) and any planning or building regulation documents.

Step 4: Searches ordered

The buyer's solicitor orders the required searches, which usually include:

• Local authority search
• Water and drainage search
• Environmental search
• Additional specialist searches (e.g., flooding, mining) depending on location

Step 5: Enquiries raised

The buyer's solicitor reviews the contract pack and searches, then raises additional enquiries. These may relate to access, boundaries, alterations, lease terms or warranties.

Step 6: Mortgage valuation and survey

If the buyer needs a mortgage, the lender carries out a valuation. Many buyers also choose a private survey (HomeBuyer Report or full structural survey).

Step 7: Mortgage offer issued

Once approved, the lender issues the mortgage offer to both the buyer and their solicitor. This must be in place before contracts can be exchanged.

Step 8: Review and signing of contracts

Both parties sign the contracts when satisfied. The buyer also pays the deposit (usually 5–10%).

Step 9: Exchange of contracts

Both solicitors exchange contracts by phone. The transaction becomes legally binding and a completion date is set.

Step 10: Pre-completion preparations

Your solicitor carries out final checks, prepares the transfer deed, and ensures all funds (including mortgage money) are ready.

Step 11: Completion

On completion day, the buyer's solicitor transfers the funds. Once received, the seller releases the keys via the estate agent.

Step 12: Post-completion work

The buyer's solicitor pays Stamp Duty (where applicable) and registers the property with HM Land Registry. The new owner then receives confirmation of registration.

How long does conveyancing take?

Timescales vary depending on the property, the chain and how quickly parties respond. Typical timelines include:

• 4–6 weeks: Fast, no chain, cash buyer.
• 8–12 weeks: The most common timescale for standard freehold purchases with a mortgage.
• 12–16+ weeks: Leasehold, new build, large chains or issues requiring investigation.

What can slow things down?

• Delays in local authority searches.
• Large chains where multiple people are buying and selling.
• Missing or unclear title documents.
• Survey problems requiring renegotiation.
• Mortgage approval delays or lender issues.
• Leasehold enquiries (these often take longer due to management companies).

How you can help speed up the process

• Instruct your conveyancer early - ideally as soon as your property is marketed or an offer is accepted.
• Complete paperwork promptly and provide ID and funds without delay.
• Respond quickly to any enquiries from your conveyancer.
• Ensure you have all certificates and permissions for any work carried out (sellers).
• Stay in regular communication with your agent and solicitor.

Why using Farrell Heyworth makes a difference

As a local estate agent with strong relationships across the North West, Farrell Heyworth helps keep your transaction moving by:

• Coordinating communication between solicitors, buyers, sellers and lenders.
• Identifying potential issues early so they can be resolved quickly.
• Tracking progress throughout the chain to reduce delays.
• Recommending trusted local conveyancers with proven performance.

Conveyancing is a vital part of buying or selling a home and typically takes around 8–12 weeks in most cases. However, with the right conveyancer and proactive communication, the process can be smoother, faster and far less stressful. Understanding each step helps make your move clearer and gives you confidence throughout the transaction.

To explore conveyancing services or get expert local support, visit our conveyancing page or contact the team at Farrell Heyworth.