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A simple, step-by-step breakdown of the conveyancing journey for buyers, sellers and remortgagers across Colchester.
Conveyancing has a reputation for being complicated, but the legal process follows a predictable structure. Once you know what happens at each point, it becomes much easier to plan your move, return documents quickly and avoid last-minute surprises. Below we explain the three key stages of Colchester conveyancing and what your solicitor is doing in each one.
Stage one starts as soon as you instruct your solicitor. They obtain the title information, review the paperwork, and begin the checks that confirm the property can legally be sold and transferred. This is also when searches are ordered and enquiries begin—designed to uncover problems early rather than after you have committed.
Searches typically include local authority, water & drainage and environmental reports, with additional searches depending on the property and location. Your conveyancer reviews the results, highlights anything that could affect your decision, and explains what it means in practical terms—so you are not left reading technical reports without context.
The solicitor checks the title plan, rights of way, restrictions, covenants and any lease terms if the property is leasehold. They compare the contract pack against what has been agreed and raise enquiries where something is unclear or missing. This is the “detail” stage—quietly crucial to preventing disputes later.
If you are using a mortgage, your solicitor works through lender requirements and ensures the legal title meets the bank’s criteria. They also complete ID/AML checks and verify source of funds where required. Getting these pieces in place early helps prevent a scramble close to exchange.
Exchange is the point the transaction becomes legally binding. By this stage, your solicitor aims to have searches and enquiries resolved, the mortgage offer received (if applicable), and you fully informed of any risks. Once both sides exchange signed contracts, the completion date is locked in.
Your solicitor sends you the final contract and supporting documents with clear guidance on what you are agreeing to. They make sure you understand any special terms, such as completion arrangements, inclusions and exclusions, and any conditions that still need to be met. You sign once everything is ready.
On exchange, the buyer usually pays a deposit (commonly 10% unless varied by agreement). Your conveyancer handles the transfer through regulated client accounts and provides an up-to-date statement showing how the figures are calculated. This keeps the money side transparent and traceable.
The completion date is agreed between both sides, often with consideration of chains, mortgage drawdown, removals and practical availability. Your solicitor coordinates with the other legal team so dates are realistic—not just optimistic. Once exchange takes place, the countdown to moving day begins.
Completion is when the legal transfer happens and you get the keys. Your solicitor sends the completion money, confirms receipt, and ensures the seller can release the property. After that, the work continues behind the scenes with tax filings and Land Registry registration.
On the day, your solicitor transfers the remaining balance to the seller’s solicitor using same-day banking. If a lender is involved, your solicitor coordinates the mortgage drawdown and monitors bank cut-off times. Once the seller’s solicitor confirms receipt, keys are released via the estate agent.
After completion, your solicitor prepares and submits the SDLT return (where applicable) and pays any tax due within the required timeframe. They then apply to HM Land Registry to register you as the owner and register the lender’s charge for mortgaged transactions. This step formally updates the legal record.
Finally, your conveyancer checks that all undertakings and outstanding points have been dealt with. You receive copies of key documents for your records, and your lender is updated where required. Once registration is confirmed, your conveyancing file is completed and archived.
Whether your move is simple or part of a chain, the right conveyancer keeps the timeline moving and the costs clear.
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These stages apply across England and Wales, but local experience can make the process feel far less stressful. Colchester conveyancing solicitors are used to coordinating with nearby estate agents, dealing with typical enquiries for local property types, and keeping files moving when a chain is involved. That combination of practical know-how and progress chasing helps you avoid “silent weeks” where nothing seems to happen.
A good local solicitor will also help you plan realistically. They explain what you should expect at each stage, what you need to provide and when, and how long searches, enquiries and lender steps tend to take. With a fixed-fee quote and clear updates, you can make decisions confidently rather than guessing what comes next.
If you are ready to start, request an instant online quote and receive a clear breakdown of legal fees and typical disbursements such as searches and Land Registry charges. It’s a simple way to understand likely costs early—so you can budget properly before committing to dates.
We can connect you with trusted conveyancers for purchases, sales and remortgages across Colchester and surrounding villages. From pre-contract checks to post-completion registration, your legal work is handled carefully and efficiently, with practical communication throughout. Use the quote tool now to keep momentum and secure your preferred timescales.