TL;DR
Compare conveyancing support, not only the headline price
A conveyancing solicitor or licensed conveyancer handles the legal transfer, searches, lender requirements, contract checks and completion. For a remortgage, the scope is usually narrower but still lender-led.
The partner tools below provide quotes. Extend Finance does not provide legal advice and availability, panel membership, scope and final fees must be confirmed directly with the legal provider.
Calculator / tool
Compare conveyancing quotes
Want to compare conveyancing quotes?
You can use the third-party quote tools below. Extend Finance may receive referral commission for solicitor introductions and does not perform conveyancing. The legal provider confirms its fees, scope and lender-panel membership.
Legals Direct
Get a conveyancing quote directly on the page.
Digital Move
Compare conveyancing quotes in a new window.
Use calculatorWhy use our partner tools?
- External conveyancing providers; check lender-panel compatibility before instructing.
- Online quote tools to compare the scope and cost of conveyancing.
- Option to discuss solicitor choice with an adviser.
Need help with the mortgage?
Speak to us about your mortgage and lender-panel compatibility. The legal provider confirms the conveyancing quote and performs the legal work.
What does a conveyancing solicitor do?
The conveyancer reviews the property's legal title and contract documents, orders searches, raises enquiries and checks mortgage conditions. They also handle the transfer of funds and registration, and carry out identity, anti-money-laundering and source-of-funds checks.
- Review title and contract papers.
- Order searches and raise enquiries.
- Report to buyer and lender.
- Exchange, complete and register ownership.
Solicitor vs conveyancer and why the lender panel matters
In England and Wales, both solicitors and licensed conveyancers can handle residential conveyancing within their authorised scope. For a property in Scotland or Northern Ireland, confirm that the firm can act in that jurisdiction. Your lender normally requires an approved firm on its panel; using a non-panel firm can add another lawyer, cost or delay.
Leasehold work, checks and when to instruct
Leasehold purchases often need a management pack, lease review, service-charge information and extra enquiries, which can increase time and fees. Agree when to instruct your solicitor before making an offer, particularly in Scotland, where your solicitor submits the formal offer. Providing identification and evidence of the source of your funds promptly can reduce avoidable delay.
Questions to ask before choosing a solicitor
Request a written, itemised quote and check what would trigger extra fees.
- Lender panel
- Is the firm on the panel?
- Quote
- Are searches and VAT included?
- Property
- Any leasehold or new-build supplement?
- Service
- Who handles the file and updates?
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a solicitor and a conveyancer?
In England and Wales, both can carry out conveyancing within their authorised scope. Solicitors may offer a broader range of legal services, while licensed conveyancers specialise in property work. For Scotland or Northern Ireland, check that the firm can act where the property is located.
Why does the lender panel matter?
The lender needs a firm it authorises to act for it. A non-panel choice can require separate representation, add fees or delay the transaction.
What are conveyancing searches?
Searches provide information from local authorities and other bodies about planning, roads, drainage, environmental and other property matters. The required package depends on location, lender and transaction.
Why can leasehold conveyancing cost more?
The lawyer must review the lease, management information, service charges and restrictions, and may deal with a freeholder or managing agent. New-build and shared ownership work may also carry supplements.
When should I instruct a solicitor?
Compare firms early and agree when to instruct before making an offer. In Scotland, your solicitor submits the formal offer, so involve them beforehand. Prepare identification and evidence of the source of your funds early.
Does Extend Finance provide legal advice?
No. Legal advice and conveyancing are provided by the independent solicitor or conveyancer you instruct. Extend Finance can introduce you to firms and may receive referral commission, but does not carry out the legal work. Before instructing a firm, check its regulation, lender-panel membership, service scope and fees.