Everything Homeowners Need to Know About Selling Property in England and Wales
Selling a house is one of the most significant financial transactions most people will ever undertake. Whether you’re moving to a new home, downsizing, relocating for work, or selling an investment property, understanding the legal process can help you avoid delays, unexpected costs, and unnecessary stress.
At Adam Bernard Solicitors, our experienced residential conveyancing solicitors help homeowners across the UK navigate the property selling process efficiently and securely.
In this guide, we explain the legal process of selling a house in the UK, from accepting an offer to completion day.
What Is Conveyancing When Selling a House?
Conveyancing is the legal process of transferring ownership of a property from a seller to a buyer.
When selling a property, your conveyancing solicitor is responsible for:
- Preparing legal documents
- Responding to buyer enquiries
- Managing contracts
- Redeeming any existing mortgage
- Handling the transfer of funds
- Completing the sale legally
Having an experienced conveyancing solicitor can significantly reduce delays and help ensure a smooth transaction.
Step 1: Instruct a Conveyancing Solicitor
One of the first things you should do when deciding to sell your house is appoint a conveyancing solicitor.
Instructing a solicitor early allows them to begin preparing the legal paperwork before a buyer is found.
Your solicitor will:
- Verify your identity
- Obtain title documents
- Prepare the contract pack
- Review ownership details
- Identify any potential issues that could delay the sale
Why Instruct a Solicitor Early?
Many property sales are delayed because sellers wait until an offer has been accepted before seeking legal advice.
Early preparation can help speed up the conveyancing process considerably.
Step 2: Gather Property Documents
Your solicitor will request information relating to the property.
Common documents include:
- Title deeds
- Planning permission approvals
- Building regulation certificates
- FENSA certificates
- Boiler service records
- Warranties and guarantees
- Leasehold documentation (if applicable)
Having these documents readily available can help avoid delays later.
Step 3: Complete Property Information Forms
As part of the conveyancing process, sellers are required to complete several forms.
These usually include:
Property Information Form (TA6)
This covers:
- Property boundaries
- Neighbour disputes
- Alterations and extensions
- Utilities and services
- Environmental matters
Fixtures and Fittings Form (TA10)
This outlines what will remain at the property after completion.
Examples include:
- Carpets
- Curtains
- Light fittings
- Appliances
- Garden features
Providing accurate information is essential to avoid future legal disputes.
Step 4: Accept an Offer
Once a buyer makes an offer and you accept it, the conveyancing process officially begins.
However, at this stage:
- The sale is not legally binding
- Either party can still withdraw
- Negotiations may continue
The transaction only becomes legally binding after contracts are exchanged.
Step 5: Draft Contract Preparation
Your solicitor prepares a draft contract and sends it to the buyer’s solicitor.
The contract includes:
- Sale price
- Property details
- Proposed completion date
- Special conditions
The buyer’s solicitor will review these documents and raise enquiries.
Step 6: Respond to Legal Enquiries
The buyer’s solicitor will conduct searches and review the contract pack.
They may raise enquiries regarding:
- Planning permissions
- Building works
- Rights of way
- Boundaries
- Property disputes
- Guarantees and warranties
Prompt responses from sellers can significantly reduce transaction times.
Selling a Leasehold Property
Leasehold transactions often involve additional legal work.
Your solicitor may need to obtain information regarding:
- Ground rent
- Service charges
- Building insurance
- Management company accounts
- Lease terms
Leasehold sales often take longer than freehold transactions because third parties are involved.
Common Leasehold Delays
- Missing management information packs
- Service charge disputes
- Short lease terms
- Outstanding arrears
If you’re selling a leasehold flat, it is advisable to instruct a solicitor as early as possible.
Step 7: Exchange of Contracts
Exchange of contracts is one of the most important milestones in the property sale process.
At exchange:
- Contracts become legally binding
- Completion date is fixed
- The buyer pays a deposit
Once contracts are exchanged, both parties are committed to completing the transaction.
Step 8: Completion Day
Completion day is when ownership officially transfers to the buyer.
Your solicitor will:
- Receive the purchase funds
- Repay any existing mortgage
- Settle agreed fees
- Transfer the remaining balance to you
Once funds have been received, the estate agent releases the keys to the buyer.
How Long Does It Take to Sell a House in the UK?
The average property sale typically takes:
| Property Type | Â Average Timescale |
|---|---|
| Freehold Property |      8–12 Weeks |
| Leasehold Property |      10–16 Weeks |
| New Build Property | Â Â Â Â Â Varies |
Several factors can influence timescales, including:
- Property chains
- Mortgage approvals
- Leasehold management packs
- Search delays
- Survey issues
Common Reasons Property Sales Are Delayed
Property Chains
A chain occurs when multiple buyers and sellers depend on each other’s transactions completing.
One delay can affect everyone involved.
Missing Documentation
Missing planning permissions, certificates, or guarantees often create delays.
Leasehold Issues
Obtaining information from freeholders or management companies can take several weeks.
Mortgage Delays
If the buyer experiences mortgage approval delays, completion may be postponed.
Survey Problems
Unexpected structural issues may lead to renegotiations or further investigations.
Do You Have to Pay Capital Gains Tax When Selling Property?
If you are selling your main residence, you may benefit from Private Residence Relief.
However, Capital Gains Tax may apply to:
- Buy-to-let properties
- Second homes
- Investment properties
Seeking legal and tax advice before selling can help you understand your obligations.
Selling an Inherited Property
If you inherit a property and wish to sell it, additional legal steps may be required.
This can include:
- Probate applications
- Grant of Representation
- Land Registry updates
An experienced conveyancing solicitor can guide executors and beneficiaries through the process.
How Much Does It Cost to Sell a House?
Typical costs include:
- Conveyancing solicitor fees
- Estate agent fees
- Mortgage redemption charges
- Leasehold management pack fees
- EPC costs
Requesting a fixed-fee conveyancing quote can help you budget accurately.
Why Choose a Specialist Conveyancing Solicitor?
Property transactions involve significant legal and financial risks.
An experienced solicitor can help:
- Prevent costly mistakes
- Resolve legal issues quickly
- Keep the transaction moving
- Ensure compliance with property law
- Protect your financial interests
At Adam Bernard Solicitors, our residential conveyancing team provides practical, transparent legal advice throughout the selling process.
