Conveyancing Costs: What Homebuyers & Sellers Need to Know

 Buying or selling a property in the UK involves more than just agreeing on a price. One of the key services you'll need is conveyancing—the legal process of transferring property ownership. Whether you're a first-time buyer, a seasoned investor, or selling your family home, understanding conveyancing costs is essential to budgeting properly and avoiding hidden fees.

What Is Conveyancing?

Conveyancing is the legal and administrative work involved in transferring property ownership from one person to another. It ensures that the buyer receives clear legal title to the property and that the seller’s interests are also protected.

The process typically includes:

  • Conducting legal property searches

  • Reviewing contracts

  • Handling Land Registry documentation

  • Managing funds for stamp duty and final payments

  • Liaising with mortgage lenders

  • Exchanging contracts and completing the sale

Most people hire either a solicitor or a licensed conveyancer to carry out this work.

How Much Does Conveyancing Cost in the UK?

Conveyancing costs can vary widely depending on the property's value, whether you're buying, selling, or remortgaging, and whether it's leasehold or freehold.

🏡 Average Conveyancing Fees in 2025

Transaction TypeFreehold PropertyLeasehold Property
Buying only£700–£1,500£850–£1,750
Selling only£600–£1,200£750–£1,500
Buying & Selling combo£1,200–£2,500£1,400–£2,800
Remortgaging£300–£600£400–£800
🔎 Note: Leasehold properties typically cost more due to extra legal work like checking the lease, service charges, ground rent clauses, and contacting the freeholder or managing agent.

What Do Conveyancing Fees Include?

Conveyancing costs are made up of two parts:

1. Legal Fees (Professional Fees)

These are the charges for the conveyancer’s time and expertise.

What they cover:

  • Reviewing contracts

  • Negotiating amendments

  • Liaising with the other party’s solicitor

  • Managing deadlines

  • Providing legal advice

2. Disbursements (Third-Party Costs)

These are fees paid to third parties during the process.

Typical disbursements include:

DisbursementCost RangeDescription
Local Authority Search£150–£350Searches for planning, drainage, or highways issues
Land Registry Fee£20–£910Cost to register ownership (based on property value)
Bankruptcy Search£2–£5 per personCheck if buyer is bankrupt (required by mortgage lenders)
Land Registry Title Deed Copies£3–£12Proof of ownership (for sellers)
Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT)VariesPaid by buyers based on purchase price
ID Verification£5–£20Confirming buyer/seller identity
Bank Transfer Fee£20–£50Transferring purchase funds on completion day

Leasehold-Specific Costs

If you're buying or selling a leasehold flat or maisonette, expect additional charges:

  • Leasehold management pack (for sellers): £150–£500

  • Notice of Transfer & Charge (for buyers): £50–£300

  • Deed of Covenant: £100–£300

  • Certificate of Compliance: £50–£200

These are often non-negotiable and are charged by the freeholder or managing agent.

Calculate Conveyancing Cost Estimator

How to Save Money on Conveyancing

Here are some smart tips to keep your costs reasonable:

  1. Compare Multiple Quotes
    Use comparison sites or call a few local firms. Ensure quotes include disbursements.

  2. Beware of Hidden Fees
    Some firms advertise low base fees but add extras for each step. Ask for a detailed breakdown.

  3. Check for No Move, No Fee Options
    Some conveyancers offer protection if your purchase or sale falls through unexpectedly.

  4. Avoid “Too Good to Be True” Deals
    Super-low online quotes may lack personal service or come with surprise costs.

DIY Conveyancing: Is It Possible?

Technically yes, especially if you’re buying or selling without a mortgage and it’s a simple freehold property. But it's risky. One small mistake can lead to legal trouble, delays, or financial loss.

Most mortgage lenders require a professional conveyancer. Unless you have legal expertise, it's best to leave it to the pros.

How Long Does Conveyancing Take?

Typically, 8 to 12 weeks from offer acceptance to completion.

Delays can occur due to:

  • Mortgage approvals

  • Complex leaseholds

  • Issues found in property searches

  • Waiting on the seller’s chain

You can help move things along by providing ID, responding to queries quickly, and staying in close contact with your conveyancer.

Should You Choose a Local or Online Conveyancer?

Both have pros and cons.

Local Conveyancers
✅ Personal contact
✅ Knowledge of local area
❌ Sometimes more expensive

Online Conveyancers
✅ Often cheaper
✅ 24/7 tracking portals
❌ Limited human interaction
❌ Delays in communication

Choose based on your priorities: cost, speed, communication, or convenience.

Final Thoughts

Conveyancing is a crucial part of buying or selling property in the UK. While costs can vary, being informed helps you plan ahead, avoid surprises, and choose a service that fits your needs.

Always ask for a clear quote, understand what’s included, and check reviews or recommendations. Conveyancing may not be the most exciting part of a property transaction, but it’s one of the most important steps in protecting your investment.

Do Check out Our Conveyancing Costs Calculator

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