07 May The cost of conveyancing – reputation and specialism matter
We all recognise that the process of buying and selling a property is costly. Every penny counts and you will want to save money wherever you can.
There are ways to achieve this such as taking advantage of the latest UK Government initiatives.
But there’s also areas where perceived cost savings may not be what they seem. Reputation and specialism matter, especially when it comes to one of the biggest expenses we’ll ever have to budget for during our lifetimes.
Understanding the latest UK Government initiatives
The UK government offers various schemes to help people get on the property ladder and manage costs. Here are some of the key initiatives currently available:
- First Homes Scheme – If you’re a first-time buyer in England, you may be able to buy a home for 30% to 50% less than its market value. The home must be your only or main residence. The scheme applies to a new home built by a developer or a home which someone else bought before through the scheme.
- Lifetime ISA (LISA) – This is a savings account designed for first-time buyers and retirement savers. You can open a LISA if you aged 18-40. You can save up to £4,000 each year, until you’re 50. The government will add a 25% bonus to your savings, up to a maximum of £1,000 per year.
- Mortgage Guarantee Scheme – The Mortgage Guarantee Scheme, permanently available from July 2025 is designed to help buyers with a small deposit. It encourages lenders to offer mortgages with a 95% loan-to-value (LTV), making it easier to purchase a home with just a 5% deposit.
The hidden risks of “cheap conveyancing”
We are often contacted by clients who have been negatively affected by so-called “cheap conveyancing” deals found online. These low-cost fees can be misleading, as they frequently contain hidden or add-on costs that are not transparent at the outset. Even more importantly, they often lack the legal expertise required to handle the complexities that can arise during a property transaction.
Our team is frequently instructed to resolve situations that have fallen outside the scope and experience of less specialised providers. When you are comparing conveyancing quotes, it is vital to ask for a full, itemised breakdown of what is included. For instance, when buying a property, ask your provider if there are additional charges if you are obtaining a mortgage? Or will there be additional costs to instigate and review searches? Alternatively, if you are selling the property, does the price include redeeming your mortgage? Or distributing the sale proceeds on completion? Ensure you chose a reputable conveyancer that will provide you with all the fees upfront and can assure you that they are appropriately accredited and experienced to deal with any situation.
The value of clear fees and legal expertise
A reliable conveyancing quotation should be clear and transparent. It should provide a full breakdown of your legal fees and all necessary disbursements—the costs paid on your behalf to third parties, such as searches, Land Registry fees, and electronic ID checks.
Beyond costs, a reputable firm provides peace of mind. Our accredited and experienced team is equipped to deal with any situation, from straightforward sales to complex leasehold and new-build transactions. We act as your independent advisor, always protecting your best interests and ensuring a smooth, successful transaction.
While we offer the option to receive information online, you will always have the ability to speak to a real person at any point in the process.
Above all, do your research and never be tempted to cut corners on your conveyancing. As the old saying goes, “if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.”
For more information
Why do you need a good conveyancer?
For legal advice
- Email info@hrjforemanlaws.co.uk
- Call Hitchin, 01462 458711, Welwyn Garden City, 01707 887700, Old Harlow 01279 709 100.
- Complete our contact form here