Buying or selling a home is one of the biggest financial decisions most people will make, but delays during the legal process are common and can add unnecessary stress. Understanding how the process works, and where hold-ups can arise, can make the experience smoother and help keep your transaction on track.
Here’s a concise guide to the key stages in a typical residential property transaction, and how working with an experienced conveyancing solicitor can help.
Instructing a conveyancing solicitor
Once your offer has been accepted, instructing a solicitor begins the legal process. Your conveyancer will request key information about the property, as well as any funding arrangements, before verifying your identity to comply with anti-money laundering regulations. Doing this early will ensure the transaction progresses efficiently and helps avoid unnecessary delays.
At Slater Heelis, our specialist Residential Conveyancing team guides clients from the outset, providing clear instructions and support so you know exactly what to expect.
Reviewing contracts and carrying out searches
Your solicitor will obtain the draft contract pack from the seller’s legal team and carry out the necessary property searches. These searches might include:
- Local authority checks
- Drainage and water authority checks
- Any other relevant searches to highlight any potential searches
Any points of concern are flagged with the seller’s solicitors through a formal enquiry process. This stage can sometimes lead to delays, particularly if issues are identified or further information is required. Our team will ensure you fully understand the implications of these searches and contract terms before committing to any decisions.
Mortgage arrangements and reporting
If your purchase involves a mortgage, your lender will issue a formal offer once approved. In many cases, your solicitor will also act on behalf of the lender, checking that the property meets their requirements.
Your solicitor will prepare a comprehensive report on the property, summarising key legal points and documentation, ensuring you are fully informed before signing contracts and helping to prevent last-minute complications.
Exchange of contracts
Exchange of contracts is a crucial milestone. Once contracts are agreed and signed, the transaction becomes legally binding. Typically, a deposit is paid at this stage, and moving arrangements can begin in earnest.
Our conveyancing team ensures all checks and enquiries are complete before exchange, providing peace of mind that nothing is overlooked and reducing the risk of delays at this stage.
Completion and registration
Completion is when ownership officially transfers. Funds are sent to the seller, and keys are released. Post-completion, your solicitor will:
- Pay any Stamp Duty Land Tax due
- Register the property at HM Land Registry
By managing these steps efficiently, our Residential Conveyancing team helps clients move in with confidence and ensures ownership is legally recorded without delay.
Keeping your transaction on track
Delays are a common part of property transactions, but with the right guidance, many can be avoided or minimised. At Slater Heelis, we understand the importance of getting every step right when buying or selling a property. Our experienced conveyancing solicitors, led by Zara Banday, can guide you through every stage, ensuring compliance with UK property law and protecting your interests throughout the process.
We provide:
- Full conveyancing services for buyers and sellers
- Support with mortgages and Stamp Duty
- Clear, practical advice on timelines, contracts, and legal checks
With decades of experience and over 1,800 five-star reviews, we’re trusted by clients across the UK to deliver reliable, straightforward legal support.
Whether you’re buying, selling, or remortgaging, our team can make your transaction smoother, protecting your interests every step of the way.
All information in this article is accurate at the time of writing (06/05/2026).
Get In Touch
Zara Banday is the Head of our Residential Property team. She has over 20 years of experience in residential property work, including residential Landlord and Tenant work
If you have questions or concerns, we’re here to help. Get in touch with one of our solicitors by calling 03301 624 681 or fill out our online contact form.
