Buying a House Solicitors

What Our Conveyancing Solicitors Do

Buying a home involves much more than agreeing a price and signing on the dotted line. Our role is to ensure that the legal title is sound, any risks are identified and managed, and the transaction proceeds smoothly to completion.

We’ll handle all aspects of your purchase, including:

• Requesting and reviewing the contract pack
• Ordering and checking searches
• Raising enquiries with the seller’s solicitor
• Reviewing your mortgage offer
• Dealing with Stamp Duty Land Tax returns and payments
• Exchanging contracts and organising completion
• Registering your ownership with the Land Registry

We’re also here to advise on leasehold properties, new builds, listed buildings, shared ownership schemes and Help to Buy purchases. Our team is known for its clear communication, attention to detail and proactive approach.

A Full-Service Conveyancing Experience

Because we’re a full-service law firm, your conveyancer can call on in-house expertise in family law, trusts, and property disputes if needed. That means we’re well placed to advise on the wider implications of your property purchase, from Inheritance Tax planning to dealing with co-ownership or trust arrangements.

We’ll also liaise directly with your mortgage lender, estate agent and other parties to help keep your purchase moving.

Transparent Fees and Timelines

We provide a free online Conveyancing Fees Calculator so you can get an instant estimate of costs including Land Registry and search fees. If you have any questions about the quote, please call us and speak to one of our team directly. For our other property services, please contact us to schedule a free consultation where we’ll discuss your requirements and estimated fees.

While every purchase is different, most transactions take between 6 to 12 weeks to complete. We’ll keep you updated throughout and work efficiently to meet your preferred timescales, wherever possible.

What Is the Legal Process for Buying a Property?

Here’s what to expect once your offer has been accepted:

Pre-Exchange

We review the contract documents, carry out searches and raise any enquiries about the property. If you’re using a mortgage, this is when you’ll receive your mortgage offer. Once everything is in order, we’ll send you a contract to sign and request your deposit.

Exchange of Contracts

Once both parties are ready, contracts are exchanged, and a completion date is fixed. The purchase then becomes legally binding.

Completion

On the agreed date, we transfer funds to the seller’s solicitor and, once confirmed, you receive the keys. We then deal with the Land Registry and submit any Stamp Duty due.

Understanding Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT)

Stamp Duty is a tax you may need to pay when buying a property. The amount depends on the purchase price and your circumstances (e.g. first-time buyer or buying an additional property). We’ll calculate the correct amount and handle the payment on your behalf.

Chains and What Happens If They Break

Most purchases are part of a property chain, meaning they’re linked to other transactions. Delays or issues in the chain can cause problems, but we’re used to managing these situations and will always act swiftly to protect your interests and keep your move on track.

Why Choose Slater Heelis?

We’ve supported thousands of clients through the property buying process and understand the importance of timely, practical legal advice. Our team combines legal excellence with a calm, approachable manner to give you peace of mind at every stage.

We’re easy to reach and flexible in how we work with you, offering services via phone, email and post to suit your needs. If you’d prefer a face-to-face meeting, we’ll gladly arrange one at our offices in Manchester or Sale.

Talk to Our Residential Property Team

If you’re ready to move or simply want advice on your next steps, we’re here to help. Our residential property team offers a responsive, reliable service tailored to your needs.

Get in touch to request a bespoke conveyancing quote or call us directly on 03300 297 347 to speak with a member of the team.