The value of the property, location and any complexities of the purchase will dictate the final fee charged within this range.  

Below, we detail what services are covered in our standard fee. 

The final quote will depend on the value and location of the property and the complexity of the transaction. We would warn you that there are some charges made by others which we will not be able to ascertain until we are instructed and make the necessary enquiries.  

If at any stage our fees change, we will notify you and discuss the reason for any changes. This would typically occur if you change your instructions or your case involves an unforeseen complexity. 

Our average fees assume that:  

1. This is a standard transaction and that no unforeseen matters arise including for example (but not limited to) a defect in title which requires remedying prior to completion or the preparation of additional documents ancillary to the main transaction. 

2. For Leasehold matters this is the assignment of an existing lease and is not the grant of a new lease. 

3. The transaction is concluded in a timely manner and no unforeseen complication arise. 

4. All parties to the transaction are co-operative and there is no unreasonable delay from third parties providing documentation. 

5. No indemnity policies are required. Additional disbursements may apply if indemnity policies are required. 

PURCHASE OF A FREEHOLD PROPERTY - EXTRA FEES & DISBURSEMENTS

HM Land Registry Fee  

The fees chargeable by the land registry can be found here https://www.gov.uk/guidance/hm-land-registry-registration-services-fees     

Stamp Duty or Land Transaction Tax (on purchase)  

This depends on the purchase price of your property. You can calculate the amount you will need to pay by using HMRC's website or if the property is located in Wales by using the Welsh Revenue Authority's website.  

How long will my property purchase take? 

How long it will take from your offer being accepted until you can move into your house will depend on a number of factors.  

• The average process for a residential freehold property purchase is between 4 – 8 weeks.  

• The average process for a residential leasehold property purchase is between 6 –12 weeks. 

It can be quicker or slower, depending on the parties in the chain. For example, if you are a first time buyer, purchasing a new build property with a mortgage in principle, it could take 4 weeks. 

However, if you are buying a Leasehold property that requires an extension of the Lease, this can take significantly longer, between 2 and 6 months. In such a situation, additional charges would apply for the work involved in extending the Lease. 

Matters that can typically delay a transaction include delays in searches, issues with a mortgage offer, issues raised in a survey or delays from the other party or the other parties’ solicitors.  

Stages of the Process 

The precise stages involved in the purchase of a residential property vary according to the circumstances.  However, the work that we will undertake for you will typically include: 

• Taking your instructions and giving you initial advice 

• Checking finances are in place to fund the purchase and contacting lender’s solicitors if needed 

• Receiving and advising on contract documents 

• Carrying out searches 

• Obtaining further planning documentation if required 

• Making any necessary enquiries of seller’s solicitor 

• Giving you advice on all documents and information received 

• Going through conditions of mortgage offer with you 

• Sending final contract to you for signature 

• Agreeing completion date (date from which you own the property) 

• Exchanging contracts and notify you that this has happened 

• Arranging for all monies needed to be received from lender and you 

• Completing purchase 

• Dealing with payment of Stamp Duty/Land Tax 

• Dealing with application for registration at Land Registry 

The stages of a Leasehold purchase transaction are the same as that of a freehold purchase. The difference is mainly that there are more documents to check and read through when dealing with a Leasehold transaction. Further when dealing with the application for registration, following completion, there are usually other notices such as the notice of transfer etc. to also deal with. 

Other Factors and Exclusions  

Our fees are fixed, however there may be factors which would typically increase the cost of the fees estimated above. Where there is likely to be any additional cost, we will make sure you are informed of this at the earliest opportunity and a clear estimate of those extra costs will be provided. 

• Value of the property. 

• Where the property is situated  

• Overseas client  

• Purchasing or selling in the name of an individual or a company 

• First-time buyer. 

• New build. 

• Listed buildings 

• First registration of title. 

• In purchase cases, whether primary residence, buy to let or second/holiday home. 

• Multiple owners. 

• Shared ownership scheme. 

• Using a help to buy scheme, and whether it is an equity loan or ISA. 

• Purchase under right to buy. 

• Purchase at auction. 

• Property has been repossessed. 

These fees vary from property to property and can on occasion, be significantly more than the ranges given above. We can give you an accurate figure once we have sight of your specific documents.