Right to Buy Solicitor Fees: A Simple Guide for UK Council Tenants
By Homey
•
20 Oct 2025
Hello! What an incredibly exciting time for you, taking the steps to own the home you've been living in. The Government's Right to Buy scheme is a fantastic opportunity, and you're right to be thinking about the costs involved. It can feel like there's a lot of new information to take in, but don't you worry. We're here to break down the solicitor fees for you, so you can feel confident and prepared for this brilliant new chapter. Let's walk through it together.

1. What Exactly Are Solicitor Fees?
When you buy a property, a solicitor or conveyancer handles all the legal work to make sure the ownership is transferred to you correctly. Their fee for this service is made up of two parts:
The Legal Fee: This is what the solicitor charges for their time, expertise, and the work they do on your behalf. Think of it as their professional fee.
Disbursements: These are costs that your solicitor pays to other organisations as part of the process. They are fixed costs that are simply passed on to you.
2. How is Right to Buy Conveyancing Different?
Buying your home from the council through the Right to Buy scheme is a little different from a standard property purchase. Your solicitor has some unique tasks to handle, which is why it's so important to choose someone with experience in this specific area. They will:
Liaise with the Council: Your solicitor will be in constant communication with the council's legal department.
Review Your Right to Buy Offer: They will carefully check the offer you've received from your landlord (the Section 125 Notice). This includes checking the property valuation, the discount you've been offered, and any specific terms and conditions.
Handle Special Conditions: Right to Buy properties often come with specific rules, such as restrictions on selling the property within a certain timeframe and the requirement to repay some of the discount if you do. Your solicitor will explain all of this to you clearly.
3. What Do the Fees Typically Cover? A Simple Breakdown
Here’s a look at what you can expect your solicitor's quote to include:
The Legal Fee:
This covers all the legal work, from checking the offer to completing the final transfer of ownership. It can vary depending on the value of the property and the complexity of the case.
The Disbursements (Third-Party Costs):
Local Authority Searches: These are enquiries made to the local council to check for any planning issues, road schemes, or other important information that might affect the property.
Land Registry Fees: The Land Registry is the government body that records property ownership. You have to pay a fee to register your ownership of the property. You can see the latest fees on the GOV.UK website.
Bank Transfer Fees: A small fee for securely transferring the large sums of money involved on completion day.
Anti-Money Laundering and ID Checks: A legal requirement for solicitors to verify your identity and the source of your funds.
Navigating the specifics of a Right to Buy purchase requires a specialist. It's not just another property transaction; it's a unique process with its own set of rules. At Homey, we can connect you with conveyancers who have proven experience in handling Right to Buy cases, ensuring nothing is missed. Visit our page at www.homey.co.uk/conveyancing to get a free consultation and find a specialist who can make your homeownership dream a reality.
4. Why Do Quotes Vary?
You might notice that different solicitors quote different prices. This can be down to a few things:
Their Experience and Reputation: A solicitor who specialises in Right to Buy might charge a bit more, but their expertise can be invaluable and save you from costly mistakes.
Location: Fees can vary across the country.
The Property Itself: If the property is a flat (leasehold), the legal work is more complex than for a house (freehold), which can be reflected in the fee.
5. Our Top Tips for You
Choose a Specialist: Look for a solicitor or conveyancer who has specific experience with Right to Buy purchases. Don't be afraid to ask them how many they've handled.
Get a Few Quotes: It's always a good idea to compare at least three quotes. Make sure they are fully itemised so you can see exactly what's included.
Ask About 'No Sale, No Fee': Some solicitors offer this, which means you won't have to pay their legal fee if the purchase falls through for any reason (though you'll likely still have to pay for any disbursements that have already been incurred).
Read Reviews: See what other people's experiences have been like.
Buying your home through the Right to Buy scheme is a life-changing step. By understanding the costs and choosing the right legal partner, you're setting yourself up for a smooth and successful journey to becoming a homeowner.
Congratulations on this amazing adventure!
6. How Homey Can Help You
At Homey, we understand that the conveyancing process can be daunting. That's why we've leveraged technology to make it as smooth and stress-free as possible. Our platform allows you to manage your entire conveyancing journey digitally, from start to finish.
We offer:
Free Consultation: We provide a complimentary consultation where our experts help you understand the conveyancing process, identify your specific needs, and assist you in finding and choosing the right conveyancer for your property type and situation.
Digital Workflow: Our intuitive online portal allows for secure document exchange, real-time updates, and easy communication with your chosen conveyancer, all from the comfort of your home.
Expert Guidance: Beyond just connecting you with a conveyancer, Homey acts as your advocate, guiding you through each step of the process and representing your interests to ensure a transparent and efficient transaction. We're here to answer your questions, clarify complex legal jargon, and keep your purchase on track.
Streamlined Communication: Say goodbye to endless phone tag and email chains. Our platform centralises all communication, making it easy to stay informed and address any queries promptly.
With Homey, you're not just getting a digital service; you're gaining a partner dedicated to making your homeownership dream a reality with confidence and ease.