Buying Property Solicitors

Buying Property Frequently Asked Questions

How long will my house purchase take?

How long it will take from your offer being accepted until you can move in to your house will depend on a number of factors. The average process takes between 8-12 weeks.

It can be quicker or slower, depending on the parties in the chain and the complexity of your transaction. For example, if you are a first time buyer, purchasing a new build property with a mortgage in principle, it could take 8 – 12 weeks if the property is built.

However, if you are buying a leasehold property that requires an extension of the lease, this can take significantly longer, and is difficult to estimate because depends on a number of variables, including for example whether the landlord has consented to the extension, but it could take between 3 and 6 months. In such a situation, additional charges would apply.

What are the key stages of buying a property?

The stages of buying property are:

1. Your offer is accepted and a solicitor is instructed

2. The buyer makes a mortgage application (if required)

3. Solicitor obtains contract pack from the buyers solicitor and raises pre-contract enquiries

4. Property searches are carried out

5. The byuyer arranges a building survey (if required)

6. The buyer receives report on the contract documents, results of any enquiries and searches

7. Exchange of contracts

8. Completion

9. Registration of the transaction at the Land Registry

To understand the different stages in the process of buying a property please view our leaflet below:

The legal process of buying a property

What is the difference between Joint Tenancy and Tenants in Common?

Joint tenancy is a type of joint ownership where multiple owners have equal rights and shares in a property. In tenancy in common, the co-owners can have unequal shares of the property. Unlike joint tenancy, where each owner has an equal share, tenancy in common allows for specific parts or percentages of the property to be owned by each tenant. We have created a comprehensive advice guide Joint Tenancy or Tenants in Common: What’s the Difference?

What is Stamp Duty?

Stamp Duty is a tax you might have to pay if you buy a residential property. You will pay Stamp Duty on residential properties costing more than £125,000. However, you may qualify for first-time buyers relief.

Why Choose the Howells Solicitors Property & Conveyancing Team

Client Feedback

We consistently receive 5-star feedback from our clients, and 99% of past clients would recommend us to their friends and family. We rank as the number 1 law firm for property and conveyancing in Rotherham and Barnsley, and number 3 in Sheffield on Reviewsolicitors.

Competitive Prices

We strive to deliver top-quality legal services at competitive rates, meaning you will receive the best service no matter what the price you pay.

Professional Service

Our Property & Conveyancing specialists are highly regarded in the industry and receive fantastic feedback on their professionalism, whilst being down to earth and offering a personalised service to each client.

Guidance and Support

We aim to make the conveyancing process stress free and easy. We’re with you every step of the way and we are there to offer advice to keep your mind at ease. We also communicate regularly, openly, and sensitively. We are always ready to listen.

Transparency

What we quote for is what we do and we make sure you are fully aware of the mystery about the legal process, so you have no fears or worries. We are also fully transparent with all of our costs, and will explain you all costs involved with your transaction from the outset.