The Ideal Time to Start Looking for a Conveyancer: A Guide for Buyers, Sellers, and Movers
By Homey
•
9 Oct 2025
In the complex dance of a UK property transaction, every step has its perfect timing. One of the most critical steps is choosing your legal partner, the conveyancer. Starting your search too late can lead to rushed decisions and costly delays, while acting at the right moment can give you a powerful advantage. This guide breaks down exactly when you should start looking for, and ultimately instruct, a conveyancer, whether you're taking your first step onto the property ladder, selling up, or moving on. A conveyancer is the specialist property solicitor who manages the entire legal process of transferring ownership of a property. From drafting contracts to raising legal enquiries and ensuring your money is transferred securely, their role is indispensable. By understanding when to bring them into the process, you can ensure a smoother, faster, and less stressful journey to completion.
I. For the Home Buyer: Securing Your Dream Home with Confidence
The Golden Rule: Start Your Search for a Conveyancer Early
For prospective buyers, the search for a conveyancer should begin long before you find 'the one'. The ideal time to start researching is when you begin to seriously consider buying a property, even before you start arranging viewings. This pressure-free period allows you to:
Get multiple quotes: Compare fees and services from different firms without the stress of an accepted offer looming over you.
Read reviews and check credentials: You'll have time to properly vet potential solicitors and find one who is responsive and well-regarded.
Key Trigger Points to Instruct a Conveyancer:
While you should look early, the moment you instruct (formally hire) them is also key.
When you get your Agreement in Principle (AIP): An AIP from a lender confirms you can likely borrow the funds. Having a conveyancer chosen at this stage shows sellers you are a prepared, serious buyer ready to proceed.
Before making an offer: This is a power move. Being able to tell the estate agent, "My offer is X, and my solicitor is ready to go," makes your offer significantly more attractive and can help you stand out from the competition.
Immediately after your offer is accepted: This is the traditional point of instruction. However, if you haven't already done your research, you'll lose valuable time getting them up to speed while the seller is waiting.
Why Instructing Early Gives You an Advantage:
Demonstrates readiness: It signals to everyone involved that you are organised and committed to the purchase.
Saves valuable time: Initial client onboarding, including crucial identity and anti-money laundering checks as required by UK regulations, can be completed upfront.
Enables immediate action: The moment your offer is accepted, your conveyancer can spring into action, requesting the draft contract and starting the legal work without a moment's delay.
II. For the Home Seller: Ensuring a Swift and Smooth Sale
The Proactive Approach: Don't Wait for an Offer
As a seller, the best time to instruct a conveyancer is the moment you decide to put your property on the market. Many sellers make the mistake of waiting until they have accepted an offer, which can create an immediate and preventable bottleneck in the sales process.
The Benefits of Early Instruction for Sellers:
Prepare the draft contract pack: Your solicitor can immediately start gathering the essential documents, including the title deeds and property information forms. According to the government's How to Sell a Home guide, being prepared is key.
Identify and resolve potential issues early: Does your property have a complex lease or a historical planning issue? Your conveyancer can spot these potential problems early and begin working to resolve them before they can derail a sale.
Become "contract ready": Having all the paperwork prepared means your conveyancer can issue a draft contract to the buyer’s solicitor as soon as you accept an offer. This can shave weeks off the transaction time and shows your buyer you mean business.
III. For the Home Mover: Juggling Both a Sale and a Purchase
The Importance of a Coordinated Approach
If you're selling one property to fund the purchase of another, you're in a chain. This makes efficiency and clear communication absolutely paramount.
It is highly advisable to use a single conveyancer for both your sale and purchase. This ensures one person has a complete overview of your transactions, can manage timings effectively, and can work to align your completion dates.
When to Start the Process:
You should instruct your conveyancer as soon as you decide to put your home on the market. They can get started on the legal pack for your sale, putting you in a strong position as a seller while you begin the search for your new home.
Strategic Advantages for Movers:
Seamless management of the chain: A single conveyancer can liaise more effectively with others in the chain to keep things moving.
Synchronised timelines: The primary goal is to exchange and complete on your sale and purchase simultaneously, which is far easier for one solicitor to manage.
Reduced stress: Having one point of contact for all the legalities simplifies the process, as recommended by consumer advice bodies like MoneyHelper.
Conclusion: The Sooner, The Better - A Universal Principle
The overarching principle is simple: the sooner you start looking for and instruct a conveyancer, the better positioned you will be. For buyers, it strengthens your offer. For sellers, it speeds up the sale. For movers, it brings much-needed coordination. Taking this proactive step empowers you to take control, reduce stress, and navigate your property transaction with confidence.
Final Checklist: What to Have Ready When You Instruct
Proof of ID: A valid passport or photocard driving licence.
Proof of Address: A recent (within 3 months) utility bill or bank statement.
Estate Agent's Details: Including the name of the negotiator handling the sale.
Mortgage AIP: Your Agreement in Principle document if you are buying.
Property Information: For sellers, have your completed property forms (TA6 and TA10) ready if possible.
4. 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.
