We are first time buyers with a mortgage agreed in principle and have just found a place to buy! We’re keen to move in asap so what can we expect and how long does the conveyancing process take?
Buying your first home is such an exciting time but can also be very daunting as you enter the unknown of the conveyancing process!
Once you have found the property you want to buy, it’s a good idea to contact a local Solicitor to get a quotation for the legal fees and disbursements so that you can plan your budget in advance.
Your Solicitor will send you various forms for completion and you will be asked to deal with other matters like ID, source of funds information and initial funds on account.
It’s very difficult to predict a timeframe or give an average timeframe for a conveyancing transaction as there are often third parties involved; management companies, mortgage lenders, not to mention the rest of the chain! However, there are things you can do to help keep the process on track. In particular, make sure you return all the forms completed at the outset along with the other items requested promptly so that as soon papers arrive from the Seller’s Solicitor, work can begin.
Your mortgage offer should be issued once the lender’s valuation has been carried out and searches will also need to be applied for in respect of the property. We would also recommend that you instruct a surveyor to carry out a survey.
Legal Enquiries and Document Signing
Your Solicitor will raise legal enquiries with the Seller’s Solicitor and you should have the opportunity to address any concerns you have as well.
Once all investigations and searches have been completed, you should be invited to sign the documentation in respect of the transaction if you haven’t done so already. You will also usually need to ensure you have adequate Buildings Insurance in place. At this stage you should then be ready to ‘exchange contracts’. The completion date is fixed on exchange and you can then start packing!
Completion day is when the monies are actually paid over to your Seller’s solicitor and the property is transferred to you. Once completion has taken place you can finally collect the keys to your new place!
Why Choose HGW Solicitors?
We at Harold G Walker are one of the largest providers of conveyancing services in the Dorset area and we will tailor our service to meet your needs. Whether you want to keep in touch by phone or email, or would like to call in to one of our offices to talk about things face to face, a Solicitor or Conveyancing Executive will be available to help with your concerns. We are also member of the Law Society’s Conveyancing Quality Scheme which is a recognised quality standard for SRA-regulated firms in residential conveyancing.
Ready to take the next step?
At Harold G Walker, we specialise in conveyancing for first-time buyers, making the journey to homeownership as smooth and stress-free as possible. Whether you’re eager to move quickly or just need guidance on the legal process, our expert team is here to help. Don’t navigate this exciting milestone alone—contact us today to learn more about our tailored services in conveyancing for first-time buyers and get one step closer to your new home!