When should you instruct a solicitor?

As soon as you have had an offer accepted on a property, you will need to instruct a solicitor. You will need to provide the solicitor's details to the estate agent who will issue them the Sales Memo.

How long does the process take?

Every transaction is different in its own way. There are several factors, some outside the control of a buyer, which can influence how long a transaction takes. We would usually estimate that the process can take between 12 – 16 weeks from the date we receive the contract papers from the seller’s solicitor.

What does the process involve?

  1. Returning your documents and ID to your solicitor.
  2. Your solicitor will order searches. These include a water & drainage, local authority and environmental search.
  3. Your solicitor will review the information relating to the title of the property and the information provided by the seller. If necessary, they will raise enquiries with the seller’s solicitor.
  4. You will be provided with several reports throughout the process, including search reports, report on freehold/leasehold and report on enquiries.
  5. You will then be required to sign all the necessary documents by your solicitor.
  6. Once all enquiries have been satisfied it will be time to agree completion dates.

These are the main steps which you need to be aware of. However, your solicitor will be undertaking several other tasks, including reviewing your mortgage offer (if mortgage funded) and possibly dealing with any other issues which may arise during the transaction.

What you can do to help speed up the process

  • Return your completed instruction documents and ID as soon as possible.
  • Speak to your lender/broker to ensure that your mortgage offer is issued to us promptly.
  • If we require any additional information from you, try to respond as best and as quickly as you can.
  • If you are having a survey on the property, try to arrange this at the beginning of the process.

How Can Timms Help?

Timms are committed to offering clients a quality service at an affordable price. We are here to help first time buyers through the exciting, but sometimes daunting process of buying their first home. If you would like further information or to receive a free quote, please contact me on freephone 0800 011 6666 or via email c.ball-wood@timms-law.com.