Buying or selling a property is likely to be one of the biggest financial commitments you will ever make. With so many other expenses to consider, it is understandable to question whether you really need a solicitor or conveyancer, or whether handling the conveyancing process yourself could save you money.
While DIY conveyancing is possible, it carries risks that often far outweigh any short-term cost savings.
In this article, our residential property team explains what conveyancing actually involves, why experienced, professional expertise matters, and how a regulated solicitor or conveyancer helps protect your interests throughout the process.
What Is Conveyancing?
Conveyancing is the legal process of transferring property ownership from one person to another. Whether you are buying or selling, the main steps are the exchange of contracts and completion. The process includes various complex tasks such as property searches, anti-money laundering checks, handling large sums of money, and registering the new owner with the Land Registry. Each stage requires accuracy, legal knowledge, and close attention to detail.
In addition to the tasks carried out by a solicitor or qualified legal professional, several other third parties are involved in the conveyancing process, including mortgage lenders, surveyors, local authorities, and estate agents.
Missing or misunderstanding something can lead to delays, unexpected costs, or even cause the transaction to fall through.
Can I Do My Own Conveyancing?
In theory, yes. There is no legal requirement for you to instruct a solicitor or licensed conveyancer to carry out the property transaction for you. That said, just because it’s possible doesn’t necessarily mean it is advisable.
If you choose to handle conveyancing yourself, it is important to realise you would be responsible for:
- Understanding complex property law and legal procedures.
- Carrying out and correctly interpreting property searches.
- Drafting or reviewing contracts without errors.
- Communicating with estate agents, mortgage lenders, the other party’s solicitor, and the Land Registry.
- Managing large sums of money safely and in line with anti-money laundering regulations.
- Spotting legal issues before they turn into serious problems.
Conveyancing involves complex procedures that most people don’t have the training or experience to manage confidently. The consequences of getting something wrong or missing an issue with the property can be severe. Even a small oversight can result in significant financial or legal difficulties.
Why Is Professional Legal Help Important?
Working with a regulated solicitor or licensed conveyancer provides reassurance and protection at every stage of the property transaction. Some of the key benefits include:
1. Conveyancing Legal Expertise and Experience
Even in a seemingly straightforward property sale or purchase, property law is complex, and no two transactions are ever the same. A qualified legal professional knows what to look for, which questions to ask, and how to identify potential issues early on. They can also advise on matters that may not be immediately obvious, such as leasehold issues, restrictive covenants, rights of way, or boundary concerns.
2. Protection From Financial Loss
If something goes wrong during DIY conveyancing, you are fully responsible. By contrast, regulated solicitors and conveyancers are required to carry professional indemnity insurance. If they make a mistake, this insurance can cover any financial loss you suffer as a result.
3. Anti-Money Laundering Safeguards
Solicitors and conveyancers are required to carry out strict identity and anti-money laundering checks. These measures help protect you from fraud and ensure the transaction is legitimate. Without professional oversight, you may be more vulnerable to scams or property fraud or could be held personally responsible for failures to meet anti-money laundering obligations.
4. Secure Handling of Funds
Property transactions involve transferring large sums of money, often hundreds of thousands of pounds. Solicitors and conveyancers hold these funds in secure client accounts and must follow strict rules when handling them. Managing these transfers yourself increases the risk of error or fraud.
5. Mortgage Lender Requirements
If you are buying with a mortgage, your lender will almost certainly insist on using a solicitor or a licensed conveyancer who is on its approved conveyancer panel. Mortgage lenders need confidence that the legal work has been carried out correctly and that their investment is protected. At Bowsers Solicitors, we are fully accredited under the Law Society’s Conveyancing Quality Scheme (CQS) and our conveyancers are on the lender panels for the majority of high-street lenders, as well as some smaller mortgage providers. Before proceeding with a transaction, our conveyancing team can check whether we are on the lender panel for your chosen mortgage provider.
6. Resolving Problems When They Arise
During the conveyancing process, it is not unusual to encounter a few queries or issues. From title defects and boundary discrepancies to unexpected delays, your solicitor will have the experience and legal knowledge to deal with these situations efficiently. However, someone without legal training may struggle to resolve them or even recognise the problem in the first place.
What About Unregulated Conveyancers?
It is important to understand the difference between regulated and unregulated conveyancing services. Solicitors are regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA), while licensed conveyancers are regulated by the Council for Licensed Conveyancers (CLC). Both are required to meet professional standards, carry indemnity insurance, and follow formal complaints procedures.
Some cheaper online services or individuals may offer conveyancing without regulation. If something goes wrong, these providers may not offer the same level of protection, accountability, or insurance.
Before instructing anyone, always check that they are properly regulated.
How Much Does Conveyancing Cost?
The cost of conveyancing varies depending on the property, the complexity of the transaction, and the level of service required. While it may seem like an expense you could avoid, professional fees are small compared to the value of the property and the risks involved.
At Bowsers, we believe in clear, transparent pricing. We explain our fees upfront so there are no surprises later on. You can find more information on our conveyancing costs by using our instant conveyancing fee calculator.
Ultimately, the peace of mind that comes from knowing your transaction is in experienced hands is worth far more than any short-term saving from DIY conveyancing.
How Bowsers Solicitors Can Help
Our conveyancing team has many years of experience supporting clients in March, Wisbech, and across Cambridgeshire. We act on a wide range of property transactions, from straightforward sales and purchases to more complex matters involving lease extensions, property and land development, and buy-to-let investments.
We know that buying or selling a property can feel overwhelming. That’s why we take the time to explain each step clearly and keep you informed throughout the process. Our team is friendly, approachable, and focused on making your transaction as smooth as possible.
Useful Resources
You may also find the following articles helpful:
- Buying a Leasehold Property: FAQs for First-Time Buyers
- Conveyancing on a New Build Property
- Step-by-Step Guide to Buying a Home
- What’s the Difference Between a Conveyancer and a Solicitor?
Conveyancing Solicitors in Wisbech and March
If you are buying or selling a property and need reliable conveyancing support, our experienced team is here to help. We will guide you through the process and protect your interests from start to finish.
To speak to one of our solicitors or chartered legal executives, call 01945 583194 (Wisbech) or 01354 652606 (March), or email reception@bowsers.co.uk. Alternatively, you can complete our contact form to request an appointment, and a member of our team will be in touch.
This article is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Information may have changed since publication.
