Selling a property is a significant life event that involves a complex legal process. According to Quick Move Now, more than 35% of sales fell through in 2023. At DTM Legal, we understand the importance of providing practical and straightforward advice to guide you through every step. In this article, we will outline the crucial role played by a conveyancing solicitor during the sale of a house, ensuring a smooth and legally compliant transaction.
- Receiving Instructions: The process begins when you, the seller, provide instructions to your conveyancing solicitor. This kick-starts the legal journey of transferring property ownership. Your solicitor will then verify your identity and source of funds, ensuring compliance with legal requirements.
- Obtaining Title Information: For registered land, the solicitor obtains essential details from the Land Registry. However, for unregistered land, a more thorough investigation is necessary, involving historical records and deeds to establish and verify ownership. This step is crucial to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the property’s legal status before proceeding with the transaction.
- Handling Enquiries: The buyer’s solicitor may raise various enquiries related to covenants, rights of way, planning permissions, building regulations, and property works. Your conveyancing solicitor will diligently respond to these enquiries, engaging in discussions with the buyer’s solicitor to address any concerns.
- Contract Signing: Once the buyer’s solicitor approves the contracts, they are sent to you for signing. This marks a critical point in the process, requiring careful review and approval by both parties before moving forward.
- Agreeing Completion Dates: Upon satisfaction with enquiries and the receipt of search results and mortgage instructions, the solicitors agree on completion dates. This step is crucial for setting a timeline for the sale process, notably the completion date is not set in stone until Contract Exchange has taken place.
- Contract Exchange: The sale becomes legally binding when the solicitors exchange contracts. This formalises the agreement, and both parties are committed to completing the transaction.
- Transfer Document and Completion: The transfer document is sent for signatures, and the completion date is reached. On completion day, you must vacate the property and hand over the keys to the selling agents. The solicitor ensures that any due monies are sent to you promptly.
Factors Affecting the Sale Process
Several factors may contribute to delays in the conveyancing process, such as obtaining information from third-party suppliers, human factors like holidays or sickness, and potential issues in longer chains. Effective communication and cooperation with all involved parties are essential for a successful and smooth transaction.
Choosing the Right Solicitor
Selecting an experienced and communicative solicitor is crucial during the sale of your property. DTM Legal’s Residential Conveyancing team, with offices in Chester and Liverpool, is committed to providing legal excellence and outstanding service. Our professionals will guide you through the process, ensuring a clear understanding of any factors impacting your sale.
Selling a house involves intricate legal procedures, and having a knowledgeable conveyancing solicitor by your side is indispensable. At DTM Legal, our Residential Conveyancing team is ready to assist you with expert advice and a commitment to ensuring a seamless and compliant sale. Contact Sue Elias and the team at 01244 354800 or email residentialconveyancing@dtmlegal.com for trusted support in your property sale journey. Visit our Residential Sales page for more details on our services and fees.
