The 10 Most Asked Questions in a Conveyancing Transaction Answered

At Thornton Jones Solicitors, we understand that buying or selling a property is often one of the largest financial decisions you will ever make. Whether you are moving home, purchasing your first property, or selling as part of a wider investment plan, the process can raise a lot of questions, and sometimes, a lot of worries.

Our dedicated conveyancing team has helped thousands of clients across Yorkshire and beyond navigate the legal process with confidence. We pride ourselves on being approachable, proactive and responsive, guiding you through every step with clear communication and practical advice. No unnecessary jargon. No hidden surprises. Just straightforward support when you need it most.

To help demystify the journey, we’ve pulled together the 10 questions we’re asked most frequently by both sellers and buyers. Whether you’re preparing to list your home or getting ready to make an offer, this guide will give you a clearer sense of what to expect throughout your conveyancing transaction.

Top 10 Conveyancing Questions That Sellers Ask the Most

1. How long will the sale of my property take?

Most sales take around 10–12 weeks from offer to completion, though this can vary depending on the length of the chain, mortgage arrangements, search timings and how quickly information is provided.

You can read more about timescales in this recent Blog by Zanna Bain-Calladine.

2. What documents will I need to provide when I sell my home?

Your solicitor will guide you through a series of property forms, including the TA6 (Property Information Form), TA10 (Fixtures & Fittings) and, if leasehold, the TA7. You’ll also need to provide ID and details of any works carried out on the property.

You can find out more about why you must provide ID in this Blog by Alison Jewell.

3. When selling my property, when should I instruct a solicitor?

We recommend instructing us as soon as you have accepted an offer. This allows us to gather the necessary information and provide you with a quote accordingly.

4. What happens with my mortgage on completion?

Your mortgage doesn’t need to be cleared in advance. We will receive a redemption figure from your lender and repay the mortgage directly from the sale proceeds.

5. What does “exchange of contracts” mean when selling my home?

Exchange is the point the transaction becomes legally binding. After exchange, both parties commit to the sale and agree a fixed completion date.

You can find out more about exchange of contracts in this Blog by Claire Smith.

6. When selling my home do I need to move out on completion day?

Yes. Completion transfers ownership to the buyer, and you will need to vacate the property by the agreed time.

7. When I sell my home what happens with any fixtures and fittings?

The TA10 form sets out which items will remain. Completing this accurately helps avoid disputes and ensures the buyer knows exactly what is included.

8. When selling a property what is a management pack (for leasehold sales)?

Leasehold transactions require an LPE1/management pack. This is provided by the freeholder or managing agent and contains essential financial and legal information. Ordering this early is important, as it can take time to obtain.

9. How are estate agent fees paid once I have sold my property?

Your solicitor pays these from the sale proceeds on completion in accordance with your agreement with the agent.

10. When selling my home what if the buyer pulls out?

Up until exchange, either party may withdraw without penalty. After exchange, financial consequences apply if either party fails to complete.

Top 10 Conveyancing Questions That Buyers Ask the Most

1. How long does buying a home take?

Purchases typically take 10–12 weeks, though chains, surveys, mortgage delays and local search turnaround times can affect this.

You can read more about timescales in this recent Blog by Zanna Bain-Calladine.

2. If I want to buy a home when should I apply for a mortgage?

A mortgage agreement in principle is helpful before making an offer. Once your offer is accepted, your full mortgage application should be submitted promptly.

3. When buying a property what are “searches” and why do I need them?

Searches uncover important information about the property and surrounding area, things you wouldn’t see during a viewing. These include local authority, drainage, water, mining and environmental searches.

4. Do I need a survey when I purchase a property?

While not legally required, a survey is highly recommended. It can reveal structural issues or defects that may affect your decision or the price you’re willing to pay.

5. What’s the difference between exchange of contracts and completion?

• Exchange: The contract becomes legally binding to complete on a certain day.
• Completion: The property legally becomes yours and you can collect the keys.

6. How much deposit is paid at exchange of contracts?

Typically 10% of the purchase price is payable at exchange, although this can vary depending on your circumstances.

7. When do I pay Stamp Duty on a property purchase?

Your Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) must be paid shortly after completion. We will calculate the amount due and submit the return for you.

Find out more about Stamp Duty and the recently Stamp Duty land Tax changes in this Blog.

8. What checks will my solicitor carry out when I buy a property?

We will review the title, searches, leasehold documents (if applicable), raise enquiries, and ensure your mortgage offer matches the property details.

9. When buying a property, how does the money move on completion day?

We will arrange for your deposit and mortgage funds to be in place. On the day, we transfer the purchase price to the seller’s solicitor, and once received, the keys are released.

10. When I buy a property when do I officially become the owner?

After completion, we register your ownership with the Land Registry. Once processed, you will receive confirmation of registration.

How Thornton Jones Solicitors Can Support You

Whether you are buying or selling a property, having the right legal support can make all the difference. Our experienced conveyancing team is here to:

• Provide clear, jargon-free advice at every stage of your transaction
• Keep your matter progressing efficiently with proactive communication
• Identify and resolve potential issues early to avoid unnecessary delays
• Guide you through key milestones, from instruction to completion

We understand that every transaction is unique, and we are committed to making the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.

If you are preparing to buy or sell, or simply need guidance on the next steps, our team is here to help.

For advice, assistance or to instruct us for your property sale or purchase please contact our team today on 01924 290 029 or via our online enquiry form.

The content of this blog post is for information only and does not constitute formal legal advice and should not be relied upon as advice. Thornton Jones Solicitors Limited accepts no liability for any such reliance upon this content. Where the post includes links to external websites, Thornton Jones Solicitors Limited accepts no responsibility for the content of such sites. Any link to a third-party website should not be construed as endorsement by Thornton Jones Solicitors Limited of any content, products or services which are outside our direct control.

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