CONVEYANCING FAQ
When should I instruct my solicitor? If you are selling, speak to us when you put your property on the market. If you are buying, speak to us before making an offer.
How much will it all cost? If you are selling, you need to budget for estate agent’s fees and our legal fees. If you are buying, you need to budget for our legal fees and disbursements. Disbursements are payments to others such as – Land Registry fees, search fees and Stamp Duty.
What is the difference between exchange and completion? In property law, exchange is the point when the contract becomes legally binding, while completion is the final date when the property ownership officially transfers, funds are paid, and the keys are handed over.
What is a Local Search? A local search is a compulsory set of standard enquiries submitted to the local council that relates solely to the specific property you are buying. It reveals critical legal and practical information about the plot, including property restrictions (such as listed building status or tree preservation orders), planning permission history, and whether the council or a private owner is responsible for maintaining the adjoining roads and paths. Crucially, a local search only covers the specific boundaries of the property itself; it will not reveal planning proposals, extensions, or development applications on neighbouring land. To protect your investment and uncover potential disruptions nearby, we frequently recommend combining this with a separate, dedicated planning search.
Do I need to have a survey? It is always sensible to have your own independent survey carried out before completing your property purchase. While your mortgage lender will require a valuation, it is vital to understand that this is not a building survey; it is a superficial assessment conducted solely for the lender's financial benefit, not yours. An independent survey is the only way to uncover hidden structural flaws, damp, or costly defects, giving you the peace of mind and leverage you need before you legally commit.
When do I get the deeds to my property? Nowadays all legal documents of title (ownership) are held electronically at the Land Registry, there are no “deeds” as such and you will be sent a copy when your purchase is registered at the Land Registry. However, there are a number of useful supporting documents which you should keep safe as they are/may be required when the property is sold again
FAMILY FAQ
What is a Cohabitation Agreement? As more people choose to live together without marrying, it is vital to know that unmarried partners do not share the same automatic legal rights as married couples. A cohabitation agreement is a formal, contractually binding document that brings clarity and security to your living arrangements by outlining how you will share daily finances—such as rent, mortgages, and household bills—and how joint assets, debts, pensions, and property will be divided if you separate, become ill, or pass away. Highly recommended for any romantically involved couples moving in together, it is equally beneficial for non-romantic cohabiters (such as siblings or friends buying a home together) to establish clear financial boundaries. This tailored agreement can protect assets owned prior to moving in, formalise care arrangements for children or pets, and minimize the risk of costly future court disputes. To ensure it accurately reflects your evolving life, we advise reviewing your agreement every five years or following major milestones like the birth of a child.
What is a Consent Order? Do I need one? A consent order is a legally binding document issued by a judge during divorce proceedings that formalises a financial agreement reached voluntarily between you and your former spouse. It clearly details how you intend to divide your marital assets—including the family home, savings, investments, pensions, and spousal maintenance—without the need for a stressful and costly court hearing. Crucially, any informal agreement you reach outside of court is not legally binding; a consent order is the only way to make your settlement enforceable and compel both parties to honour their promises. For instance, pension providers cannot legally split or transfer funds without this official judicial instruction. Most importantly, a consent order contains a "clean break" clause that permanently cuts your financial ties, preventing your ex-spouse from attempting to claim a share of your future income, assets, or inheritances years down the line. Obtaining a consent order is the only method to secure absolute financial protection, finality, and peace of mind for your future.