Dwellmark guides

Conveyancing

The legal side of buying and selling explained: what it is, what it costs, how long it takes.

Conveyancing is the legal process that transfers a home from one owner to another. It’s where most delays happen - and where a good professional earns their fee. Here’s how it works and what it should cost.

Guides

How long does conveyancing take?

Conveyancing does not move at one fixed speed. The period from an offer being accepted to exchang

2 min read · Published 9 August 2026

What is conveyancing and how much does it cost?

Conveyancing is the legal process that moves a home from one owner to another - and it’s where most buying delays happen. What it covers, what it really costs, and how to choose who does yours.

2 min read · Published 7 August 2026

Common questions

How much does conveyancing cost in the UK?

Expect £800–£1,500 for buying and £700–£1,200 for selling, plus disbursements (searches, Land Registry, transfers) of roughly £300–£600. Leasehold properties add £150–£400. Always ask for a full written quote including disbursements.

How long does conveyancing take?

8–12 weeks for a straightforward freehold purchase. Leasehold purchases take longer (the management pack alone can take weeks), and chains or slow searches can extend it further.

Should I use a conveyancer or a solicitor?

Both are qualified for standard house purchases. Solicitors are regulated by the SRA and can handle complex legal issues; licensed conveyancers specialise purely in property and are regulated by the CLC. For a straightforward purchase, a good licensed conveyancer is usually the better-value choice.