Frequently Asked Questions

The process in which ownership of a property or a plot of land is transferred from one person to another.

The legal process does not require you to attend our office in person. So long as you are well organised we can provide documents electronically or by post, allowing us to act for local and national clients without delaying your move. You are welcome to visit if you prefer.

An average property transfer takes around 6-8 weeks, though this can vary depending on factors such as the size of the chain and the type of property being transferred.

We recommend not setting a firm date until all legal arrangements are finalised, and not relying on it until your solicitor confirms everything is ready, to avoid difficulties with removals or notice periods.

Once contracts are exchanged your move date becomes legally binding and cannot be changed without agreement. You do not need to be present, but we will need your authority by telephone on the day.

Our professional rules, Land Registry requirements and fraud prevention mean we must carry out identity checks on all clients, using electronic checks based on documents you provide, with no impact on your credit rating.

Searches are carried out early in the buying process and paid for by the buyer, typically taking 2-4 weeks. They are usually compulsory if you have a mortgage, and include Local Authority, Water and Drainage, Environmental and Coal Mining searches.

Costs vary depending on the type of matter and the details of your property and transaction. Use our Quote Calculator for a basic Fees Estimate, or contact us for a detailed breakdown.

Our fees for a remortgage range between £400.00 and £600.00 plus VAT and disbursements, with typical disbursements including ID checks, searches, title register, bankruptcy searches and Land Registry fees.

A basic straightforward Will starts from £200.00 plus VAT at our offices, or from £500.00 plus VAT for a home visit. Additional fees apply for more complex Wills.

Submission-only Probate applications start from £500.00 plus VAT and disbursements. Administering an Estate typically ranges from £1,500.00 to £10,000.00 plus VAT, depending on complexity.

Several team members have a collective experience of over 25 years in property and private client matters, with all matters supervised by Director Thomas Shuttleworth, a solicitor with over 14 years post-qualification experience.

Please provide full details in writing. We will acknowledge your complaint, record it, investigate, and respond in detail, usually within eight weeks of acknowledgement. If you remain unhappy you can refer your complaint to the Legal Ombudsman.