Why you should instruct a conveyancer before you find a property
Many buyers make the mistake of waiting until they’ve had an offer accepted before finding a conveyancer. But in a fast-moving market, delays can cost you the home you want. Instructing a conveyancer before you start viewing means you’re fully prepared to move quickly when you find the right property.
Here’s why being proactive gives you a major advantage.
What does a conveyancer do?
A conveyancer or property solicitor is responsible for handling the legal side of your home purchase. Their key tasks include:
✔ Carrying out legal checks – Ensuring the property has no legal issues, such as boundary disputes or restrictions.
✔ Managing searches – Ordering local authority, environmental, and water searches. Maybe some more too!
✔ Reviewing the contract – Checking terms, rights of way, leasehold/freehold details, and more.
✔ Liaising with the seller’s solicitor – Raising and resolving any enquiries.
✔ Handling exchange and completion – Transferring funds and registering you as the new owner.
Why instruct a conveyancer early?
Most buyers wait until their offer is accepted before looking for a conveyancer, but this can create unnecessary delays. If you secure a property and then start searching for a conveyancer, you’ll lose valuable time.
By instructing a conveyancer early, you:
✔ Speed up the process – Your conveyancer will have everything set up and ready to go.
✔ Show estate agents and sellers you’re serious – Agents prioritise buyers who are already prepared.
✔ Avoid making rushed decisions – Choosing the right conveyancer takes time, so don’t leave it until the last minute.
✔ Get your compliance checks done in advance – This can be one of the biggest causes of delays (which Open Moove helps you avoid!).
💡 Fact: Buyers who instruct a conveyancer before making an offer can reduce transaction times by weeks, helping to avoid chains collapsing.
How to choose the right conveyancer
Not all conveyancers are the same. Consider:
• Experience and reputation – Choose a conveyancer who specialises in residential purchases.
• Communication – A good conveyancer keeps you updated throughout the process.
• Fixed fees vs hourly rates – Look for clear pricing to avoid unexpected costs.
• Technology and efficiency – Some conveyancers still rely on paperwork and post, which slows things down. Digital-first firms speed up the process.
💡 Tip: Ask your estate agent or mortgage broker for recommendations, but always check reviews within the Open Moove market place before deciding.
What Open Moove suggests next
• Instruct a conveyancer before you start viewing properties to avoid unnecessary delays.
• Complete your compliance check in the Open Moove app so everything is ready when you make an offer.
• Get quotes from different conveyancers and compare their services before choosing.
• Download the Open Moove app to track your home buying progress and get expert guidance at every step.
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