Buying or selling a house comes with many costs, and conveyancing or solicitors’ fees are one of the most important expenses to budget for. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or selling a home, understanding what you’ll pay for legal services can help you avoid surprises.
In this guide, we’ll explain:
- What solicitors’ fees cover
- The average solicitor fees for buying and selling a house
- The extra costs you should be aware of
- Tips on how to save on solicitor costs
What are solicitors’ fees?
Solicitors play a crucial role in property transactions by handling all the legal aspects to ensure a smooth transfer of ownership. Their responsibilities include reviewing contracts, conducting necessary checks, and overseeing financial transactions. Without a solicitor, the process can be legally complex and stressful, which is why their services are essential.
Solicitors’ fees are divided into two main components:
- Legal fees – This is the amount you pay directly to the solicitor for their time, expertise, and transaction handling.
- Disbursements – These are costs paid to third parties on your behalf, such as property searches, Land Registry fees, and bank transfer charges.
Understanding these costs upfront can help you budget effectively and avoid unexpected fees.
Related: What is conveyancing?
Solicitors’ fees for buying a house
If you’re purchasing a property, solicitor fees typically range from £750 to £2500, depending on factors such as the property price and complexity of the transaction. You should also be aware of additional charges, such as Stamp Duty and property searches, which can add to the overall cost.
Breakdown of solicitor fees for buyers
In addition to the solicitor’s base fee, buyers need to cover various disbursements, including:
- Solicitor’s legal fees – Typically between £850 and £2,000, depending on the property and solicitor.
- Other searches – Around £250 to £450, covering local authority, environmental, and water and drainage searches to uncover any legal or structural issues.
- Land Registry fee – Ranges from £20 to £1,105, depending on the property’s value.
- Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) – Varies based on the purchase price and whether you’re a first-time buyer.
- Bank transfer fee – Typically between £20 and £45 to handle mortgage funds and property payments securely.
Factors affecting solicitor fees for buying a house
The cost of legal services can vary depending on a few key factors:
- Property price – Higher-value homes often come with higher legal fees.
- Leasehold vs. freehold – Leasehold properties require additional checks and legal documentation, increasing costs.
- Mortgage lender requirements – Some lenders impose specific legal requirements, which can lead to extra solicitor work.
Solicitors’ fees for selling a house
Selling a property also requires legal assistance to ensure the transaction is handled correctly. Solicitors’ fees for selling a home typically range between £1,000 and £2,500, but this amount can vary based on leasehold status and mortgage redemption.
Breakdown of solicitor fees for sellers
Sellers are responsible for several legal costs, including:
- Solicitor’s legal fees – Generally between £1,000 and £2,500, depending on the solicitor and complexity of the sale.
- Title deeds – A small fee of £6 to £12 to obtain a copy of the title register from the Land Registry.
- Bank transfer fee – Typically, £20 to £45 to transfer the sale proceeds securely.
- Leasehold information pack – Selling a leasehold property can cost between £250 and £1,000, depending on the managing agent.
Related: Can you do your own conveyancing?
Factors affecting solicitor fees for selling a house
Different elements can influence the overall cost of legal services when selling a home:
- Leasehold vs. freehold – Leasehold properties involve more paperwork and legal coordination with the freeholder or management company.
- Mortgage redemption – If you have an outstanding mortgage, the solicitor will handle the redemption process, which may involve additional fees.
- Complexity of the sale – If any legal issues arise, such as boundary disputes or missing documents, solicitor costs may increase.
Average cost of solicitors for buying and selling a house
If you are both buying and selling a property, you will need to budget for legal fees on both transactions. The average solicitor fees for buying and selling a house typically range from £2,500 to £5,000, depending on factors such as property value, leasehold status, and additional disbursements.
Ways to reduce solicitor fees when buying and selling a home
Although solicitor fees are a necessary expense, there are ways to keep costs under control:
- Compare quotes – Get at least three quotes from different solicitors to find the best value.
- Look for fixed fees – Some solicitors charge a set amount, helping you budget more effectively.
- Check for hidden charges – Always ask for a detailed breakdown of fees before agreeing to anything.
- Act quickly – Responding promptly to solicitor requests can prevent delays and potential extra charges.
Fixed fees vs. hourly rates – what’s best?
Most solicitors offer fixed fees for conveyancing, which means you’ll know the cost upfront. However, some charge hourly rates, particularly for more complex transactions.
- Fixed fees – Best for straightforward transactions, as they offer transparency and predictability.
- Hourly rates – This can be cost-effective for unique or complex cases but may lead to higher costs if unexpected issues arise.
How to find the best solicitor for your needs
Choosing the right solicitor can make the difference between a smooth transaction and unnecessary delays. When selecting a solicitor, consider:
- Customer reviews – Look for solicitors with good feedback from previous clients.
- Pricing transparency – Ensure you get a clear, upfront cost breakdown with no hidden fees.
- Experience – Choose a solicitor with expertise in handling similar property transactions.
- Communication – A solicitor who keeps you informed throughout the process can help reduce stress.
Are solicitor fees worth it?
Solicitors’ fees may seem like a significant expense, but they are a vital part of the home buying and selling process. A solicitor ensures that contracts are legally sound, searches are conducted correctly, and all financial transactions are completed securely.
If you’re planning to buy or sell a home, take the time to find a solicitor that offers the right balance of cost, service, and experience. Contact your local Martin & Co branch for guidance today.
