As a Seller, what you have to do once you instruct the Conveyancer
By Homey
•
26 Sept 2025
Selling your home can feel like a marathon, and once you've instructed your conveyancer, the starting gun has been fired. But what exactly is your role in this race to the finish line? While your solicitor handles the complex legal work, your prompt action and cooperation are the secret ingredients to a smooth, speedy, and stress-free sale. This guide breaks down exactly what you, the seller, need to do at every stage of the conveyancing process, ensuring you're always one step ahead.
I. Initial Steps After Instructing Your Conveyancer
This first phase is all about setting the stage for a successful transaction. Getting these initial tasks done quickly and correctly will prevent delays down the line.
Complete and Return Initial Paperwork
Once you've chosen your conveyancer, they will send you an initial care pack. This typically includes a client care letter, which outlines the services they will provide and their terms of business. It's essential to read this carefully, sign it, and return it as soon as possible. This officially authorises them to begin work on your behalf.
Provide Identification
To comply with UK anti-money laundering regulations, your conveyancer must verify your identity. You will need to provide them with certified copies of your identification documents. Typically, this includes:
Proof of Identity: A valid passport or driving licence.
Proof of Address: A recent utility bill or bank statement (usually dated within the last three months).
Your conveyancer will provide specific instructions on how to get these documents certified. Acting on this promptly allows the legal work to commence without delay.
Complete Property Information Forms
This is one of your most critical tasks. You'll receive several forms to complete, primarily the Property Information Form (TA6) and the Fittings and Contents Form (TA10).
TA6 Property Information Form: This comprehensive document covers everything a buyer needs to know about the property, from disputes with neighbours and planning permissions to environmental matters and warranties.
TA10 Fittings and Contents Form: This form specifies exactly what is included in the sale—from carpets and curtains to kitchen appliances and garden sheds.
Be thorough and honest. Inaccurate or incomplete information can lead to delays or, in worst-case scenarios, legal action from the buyer after the sale. If you're unsure about any question, ask your conveyancer for guidance.
II. Key Responsibilities During the Pre-Exchange Stage
With the initial paperwork sorted, the focus now shifts to providing the information the buyer's solicitor needs to carry out their due diligence.
Gather Important Documents
Start gathering all relevant paperwork for your property. The more organised you are, the faster this stage will be. Key documents include:
Certificates for any building work (e.g., FENSA certificates for windows, gas safety certificates for new boilers).
Planning permission documents for any extensions or significant alterations.
Guarantees or warranties for appliances or work done on the property.
If the property is a leasehold, the lease agreement and any related service charge or ground rent statements.
Respond to Enquiries
The buyer’s solicitor will review the draft contract and the property forms you completed and will raise a list of enquiries. These questions seek to clarify any missing information or potential issues. Your conveyancer will forward these to you to answer. Your task is to respond as quickly and accurately as possible. Delays in responding are one of the most common reasons for a property chain to slow down.
Negotiate the Draft Contract
Your conveyancer will send you a draft contract to review. This document outlines the terms of the sale, including the price, the property boundaries, and any specific conditions. You should check this carefully and confirm you are happy with all the details. This is also the stage where a potential completion date is discussed and pencilled in.
Read our blog: As a Buyer or mover, what you have to do once you instruct the Conveyancer
III. The Exchange of Contracts
This is the moment of truth—the point of no return where the sale becomes legally binding. Your main role here is to be decisive and available.
Confirm the Completion Date
You, your buyer, and anyone else in the property chain must all agree on a single completion date. This is the day you will move out, and the buyer will move in. Flexibility and clear communication are key to getting a date that works for everyone.
Sign the Contract
Once all enquiries have been satisfied and the terms are agreed upon, your conveyancer will ask you to sign the final contract. This doesn't make the deal legally binding just yet, but it prepares you for the exchange. Ensure you are ready to proceed so your solicitor can exchange contracts as soon as everyone in the chain is ready.
IV. Between Exchange and Completion
The hard legal work is done! This period, often a week or two long, is focused on the practicalities of moving out.
Arrange Your Move
As soon as contracts are exchanged, you can confidently book your removal company. It's also time to start the big task of packing up your belongings.
Notify Utility Providers
You need to inform all your utility providers (gas, electricity, water), your local council tax office, broadband and phone providers, and any other subscription services about your moving date. On the day you move, remember to take final meter readings to ensure you are billed correctly.
Prepare the Property
The property must be left in the state agreed in the contract. This means ensuring it's clean and tidy, and that all the items listed on the Fittings and Contents (TA10) form are left behind for the buyer. Anything not included in the sale must be removed.
V. On Completion Day
This is the final hurdle. The day is all about timing and logistics.
Vacate the Property
You must have fully moved out of the property by the time stated in the contract, which is usually around 1 pm. This allows the buyer to move in without any crossover.
Hand Over the Keys
Once your conveyancer confirms they have received the sale funds from the buyer's solicitor, they will authorise the estate agent to release the keys to the new owner. It’s standard practice to leave a full set of keys with your estate agent on the morning of completion.
VI. Post-Completion Formalities
You've moved out, and the sale is complete. Your conveyancer will now tie up the final loose ends.
Settle a Redemption Figure on Your Mortgage
Your solicitor will request a final mortgage redemption statement from your lender and use the sale proceeds to pay off your outstanding mortgage balance.
Pay Estate Agent and Conveyancing Fees
The conveyancer will also pay the estate agent's commission and their own legal fees directly from the sale funds.
Receive Net Sale Proceeds
After all mortgages and fees have been paid, the remaining balance—the net sale proceeds—will be transferred directly into your nominated bank account. Congratulations, you have successfully sold your property!
VII: 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.
