Tips for choosing a solicitor

You’ve found your dream home and had your offer accepted—what’s next? Appointing the right legal professional ensures your sale or purchase progresses smoothly.

At Armaani Estates, we understand the legal side of moving can feel overwhelming. That’s why we partner with trusted solicitors and conveyancers to guide you every step of the way.

Do You Need a Solicitor to Sell Your Home?
Technically, no—but we strongly advise against going it alone. While it’s legal to handle the paperwork yourself, the process is complex and carries significant risks. A solicitor or licensed conveyancer offers expert protection, and your mortgage lender may require one.

You can choose between:

• Solicitor – Offers full legal services, including tax and financial advice (typically at a higher fee).

• Conveyancer – Specialises in property transactions, usually at a lower cost.

What Does a Solicitor Do?
Whether you’re buying or selling, your solicitor ensures everything is done by the book.

For sellers
Once you accept an offer, your solicitor begins the legal process:

• Gathers title deeds and key information from Land Registry

• Drafts the contract and sends it to the buyer’s solicitor

• Manages negotiations on sale details (fixtures, fittings, etc.)

• Finalises the completion date and handles the exchange of contracts and funds

For buyers
Your solicitor takes care of:

• Conducting property searches

• Reviewing the draft contract

• Discussing mortgage terms (if applicable)

• Agreeing a completion date

• Managing your deposit and transferring funds

Each step takes time, and small delays can occur. That’s why choosing an experienced solicitor is essential.

What About Conveyancers?
A conveyancer offers the same core legal services as a solicitor but focuses exclusively on property law. They handle:

• Title checks

• Drafting and reviewing contracts

• Managing completion

• Communicating with the other party’s solicitor or conveyancer

While they can’t offer tax or financial advice, their expertise in property law ensures a smooth, efficient process.

Can You Use the Same Solicitor for Buying and Selling?
Absolutely—and it can even speed things up. Using the same legal expert for both transactions removes delays from document sharing. However, in a chain, timing still depends on all parties involved.

One solicitor may also act for both buyer and seller—but only under strict conditions to avoid conflicts of interest. Your chosen legal professional will assess this on a case-by-case basis.

How to Choose the Right Solicitor or Conveyancer
At Armaani Estates, we recommend asking the following questions when appointing a legal professional:

1. Are they approved by your mortgage lender?
   Lenders only work with specific panels of solicitors. Choosing one that’s already approved avoids unnecessary delays.

2. What are their fees?
   Ensure their quote includes all legal services and disbursements (such as property searches). Typical fees range from £850–£1,500, not including search costs.

3. Do they come recommended?
   Ask friends, family, or your estate agent. At Armaani Estates, we only recommend professionals with a proven track record.

4. Are they properly registered?

• Solicitors – Should be regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA)

• Conveyancers – Must be licensed by the Council for Licensed Conveyancers (CLC)

Need Help Finding the Right Legal Partner?
We’ve built strong relationships with top solicitors and conveyancers. Let us connect you with professionals who deliver timely, transparent, and expert service.

Still Searching for the Perfect Property?
Explore our listings or get in touch with Armaani Estates today. Whether you’re buying, selling, or both—we’re with you at every step.