Understanding the 3 stages of conveyancing for Peterborough property buyers and sellers.
Navigating the conveyancing process can feel overwhelming, especially if you are moving in or around Peterborough. To help you plan with confidence, this guide outlines the three core stages and what each involves. Working with experienced Peterborough conveyancing solicitors makes the steps transparent and keeps your move on schedule.
In the pre-contract phase, your solicitor gathers information, reviews the title and prepares or checks the draft contract. Property searches are ordered to reveal planning matters, roads, drainage connections and environmental risk relevant to Peterborough and nearby areas such as Hampton, Orton and Werrington. Early identification of issues allows targeted enquiries so you can commit with confidence.
Your conveyancer typically orders local authority, water & drainage and environmental searches, with extras if the property type or location requires it. Local familiarity helps anticipate council turnaround times and common findings across Peterborough postcodes. The results are explained in plain English so you understand any risks before you proceed.
The contract sets out the price, parties, title plan, and what is included or excluded in the sale. Your solicitor checks leasehold packs where relevant, clarifies restrictions and raises enquiries to resolve gaps or inconsistencies. Terms are negotiated so the written agreement matches what you have agreed in principle.
Your solicitor liaises with your lender, satisfies any legal conditions and reports on the title for mortgage purposes. They verify source of funds and complete required ID/AML checks to keep the matter compliant. Clear funding timelines are set so exchange and completion are not delayed.
Exchange is the point at which the transaction becomes legally binding and a deposit is paid. Before exchange, your solicitor ensures searches and enquiries are satisfactorily resolved and your mortgage offer is issued. Once both sides sign and exchange, a fixed completion date is agreed.
Your solicitor provides the final contract and explains any terms that need attention. You sign, and identical copies are exchanged between the legal teams to create the binding agreement. From this moment, both parties are committed to the agreed date and terms.
The buyer’s deposit, usually 10% unless otherwise agreed, is transferred to the seller’s solicitor on exchange. Funds are handled through regulated client accounts for security and audit trail. Your conveyancer confirms receipt and issues a statement so you can track the figures.
The completion date is when the balance is paid and keys are released via the agent. Timings commonly range from 7–28 days post-exchange, but chains and personal circumstances can influence this. Your Peterborough solicitor coordinates stakeholders so removals and handover happen smoothly.
On completion day your solicitor sends the balance, confirms receipt and authorises key release. They settle any apportionments or agreed allowances, redeem existing mortgages and account to you with a final completion statement. You take possession of the property and the legal work moves into post-completion.
Purchase funds are transferred by same-day bank transfer to meet contractual deadlines. Where there is a mortgage, the lender releases monies to your solicitor to complete. Your conveyancer monitors banking cut-offs and confirms when completion has taken place.
Following completion, your solicitor files the SDLT return (if payable) within the HMRC deadline and pays any tax due. The application to HM Land Registry is then submitted to register you as owner and record any charge. You will receive updated evidence of title once registration is completed.
The file is reconciled to ensure all conditions and undertakings have been met. Copies of key documents are provided for your records and for your lender where required. With registration underway, your Peterborough conveyancing matter is formally wrapped up.
When buying, selling, or remortgaging in Peterborough, a proactive legal team keeps your timeline and costs under control.
Conveyancing quotes in as little as 30 seconds
These stages apply across England and Wales, but local knowledge helps you move faster and with fewer surprises. Peterborough conveyancing solicitors understand council search patterns, new-build developments around Hampton and Cardea, and common leasehold nuances in and around the city centre. Close relationships with local agents, surveyors and brokers keep communication tight and your file progressing.
From first-time buyers in Stanground to sellers in Orton and upsizers in Werrington, a local team can tailor advice to property type and location. Fixed-fee quotes give budget certainty while clear reporting keeps you in control of decisions. If timing is critical, your solicitor will plan milestones so exchange and completion are realistic and achievable.
If you’re ready to begin, request your instant online quote and see exactly what your Peterborough conveyancing will cost. You’ll receive a transparent breakdown of legal fees and typical disbursements such as searches and Land Registry charges. With pricing clear from day one, you can plan your move with confidence.
Wherever you are in Peterborough or the surrounding villages, we’ll connect you with a trusted local solicitor for buying, selling or remortgaging. From pre-contract checks to post-completion registration, your legal work will be handled efficiently and with care. Start now to keep momentum and secure your preferred dates.