When you’re selling your home, there’s one part of the process that can make all the difference between a smooth transaction and a stressful experience — conveyancing.
While estate agents, buyers, and lenders all play their part, the conveyancer is the person responsible for handling the legal side of your sale. Choosing the right solicitor or licensed conveyancer, and understanding what they do, is key to keeping your sale on track and avoiding costly delays.
At Alex & Matteo Estate Agents, we work closely with both sellers and solicitors every day. Here’s what every homeowner should know about conveyancing, why it matters, and how to make sure you’ve chosen the right professionals to support your sale.
Conveyancing is the legal process of transferring property ownership from one person to another.
For the seller and their solicitors, it involves preparing contracts, verifying title deeds, and answering legal enquiries
A typical conveyancer’s responsibilities include:
In short — while your estate agent markets and negotiates your sale, your conveyancer ensures it’s legally sound and fully compliant.
The conveyancing process can vary widely depending on your chosen solicitor. Some firms work quickly and communicate clearly, while others may take longer or rely on outdated processes. Here’s why getting this decision right matters:
A good conveyancer keeps you and your estate agent updated throughout. They respond promptly to emails, share updates, and help ensure all documents are in place well ahead of exchange. Poor communication, on the other hand, can lead to unnecessary delays or even a collapsed sale.
Maltby Street Market
A conveyancer familiar with your area, such as SE16, Bermondsey, or Rotherhithe, will know about common issues with leaseholds, local developments, and freeholder requirements. Local expertise helps them anticipate potential obstacles and resolve them quickly.
Errors in paperwork, missed deadlines, or misunderstandings between solicitors can cause serious setbacks. Experienced conveyancers double-check every detail, from contract terms to title documentation, to ensure the sale proceeds smoothly.
While cheaper online conveyancers might seem appealing, they can often be less accessible and slower to respond. The best option is a solicitor who provides clear fees upfront and explains any additional costs — no hidden extras, no surprises.
While your conveyancer handles the legal side, your estate agent and mortgage broker both play vital roles in keeping everything aligned.
A proactive estate agent acts as the link between you, your buyer, and both sets of solicitors. At Alex & Matteo, we regularly liaise with conveyancers to chase documents, clarify terms, and ensure communication remains open across all parties. This coordination helps prevent miscommunication and keeps the sale moving efficiently.
Grantham Court, Canada Water
If you’re selling and buying simultaneously, a good mortgage broker ensures your new purchase and sale are timed properly. They can help you avoid cash-flow issues and ensure mortgage offers or redemptions are ready when needed.
When your estate agent, broker, and conveyancer work well together, the result is a coordinated, transparent process with minimal stress for you as the seller.
Every property sale has its nuances, but some of the most common challenges sellers face include:
The key to avoiding these issues? Choose a reputable conveyancer early, provide all required documents quickly, and stay in close contact with your agent.
Globe Wharf Rotherhithe
At Alex & Matteo Estate Agents, we understand how important it is for sellers to have a reliable, communicative conveyancer. That’s why we regularly collaborate with trusted solicitors and brokers who share our commitment to clear communication and customer care.
If you’re thinking about selling your home in Bermondsey, Rotherhithe, Canada Water, or the wider SE16 area, we can help guide you through the full process, from listing your property to completing your sale.
Conveyancing might feel like the “admin” side of moving home, but in reality, it’s the backbone of a successful sale. The right conveyancer protects your interests, keeps your buyer confident, and ensures the process runs to plan.
By pairing an experienced solicitor with a proactive estate agent and supportive broker, you’ll save time, reduce stress, and move on to your next chapter smoothly.
Get in touch with the team at Alex & Matteo Estate Agents today for expert advice, a free property valuation, and guidance on every step of the selling process.
