When to Instruct a Solicitor When Buying a House

When to instruct a solicitor when buying a house is one of the most common questions buyers ask, especially if it’s their first time purchasing a property. While it’s possible to wait until you’ve had an offer accepted, many buyers find that getting a solicitor lined up earlier helps the process move more smoothly.

A solicitor or conveyancer plays a vital role in the home-buying process, handling the legal work required to transfer ownership from the seller to you. The earlier they’re instructed, the sooner they can start preparing the paperwork and carrying out essential checks.

In this guide, we’ll explain when you should instruct a solicitor when buying a house, what they do, and how getting organised early can help reduce delays later on.

When Should You Instruct a Solicitor When Buying a House?

The short answer is: as early as possible.

Many buyers wait until their offer has been accepted before formally instructing a solicitor, and this is perfectly normal. However, it’s often beneficial to research and choose a solicitor before you start making offers.

This means that once your offer is accepted, you can provide your solicitor’s details immediately and allow the legal process to begin without delay.

A good rule of thumb is:

• Start researching solicitors before house hunting

• Request quotes early

• Have your preferred solicitor ready before making an offer

• Formally instruct them as soon as your offer is accepted

Why Should You Instruct a Solicitor Early?

Instructing a solicitor early can save valuable time during the buying process.

Benefits include:

• Faster progress once an offer is accepted

• More time to complete identity checks

• Less risk of delays during conveyancing

• Greater certainty around legal costs

• Faster communication between all parties

The UK property market can move quickly, particularly in competitive areas. Having your legal team ready to go can help prevent unnecessary hold-ups.

If you’re still learning about the buying process, our guide on how to buy a house explains each stage in more detail.

What Happens If You Wait Too Long?

Waiting too long to instruct a solicitor can slow your purchase down.

Common issues include:

• Delays completing ID verification

• Slower contract reviews

• Searches being ordered later than necessary

• Increased risk of chain delays

• Added pressure as exchange approaches

While instructing a solicitor after your offer is accepted is still common practice, leaving it until several weeks later can create avoidable complications.

In a competitive market, delays can sometimes put a transaction at risk.

What Does a Solicitor Do When Buying a House?

A solicitor or conveyancer manages the legal side of your purchase.

Their responsibilities typically include:

• Reviewing the draft contract

• Carrying out property searches

• Raising enquiries with the seller’s solicitor

• Checking legal ownership

• Reviewing leasehold information where relevant

• Liaising with your mortgage lender

• Managing exchange of contracts

• Completing the legal transfer of ownership

Their role is to identify any legal issues before you become committed to the purchase.

What Does Your Solicitor Do at the Start of the Process?

Once instructed, your solicitor will begin several key tasks.

Identity Verification

You’ll be asked to provide proof of identity and address to satisfy anti-money laundering regulations.

Source of Funds Checks

Your solicitor will need evidence showing where your deposit funds have come from.

Opening Your File

They’ll formally open your case and gather details about the property and transaction.

Contacting the Seller’s Solicitor

Once contracts are issued, your solicitor will begin reviewing the legal paperwork.

Having these steps completed early can save time later.

You can also prepare by gathering documents you need to buy a property before your purchase progresses.

When Does the Legal Process Officially Begin?

The legal process generally begins once:

• Your offer has been accepted

• The seller appoints their solicitor

• The draft contract pack is issued

At this point, your solicitor can begin reviewing documentation and ordering searches.

Although some preparatory work can happen beforehand, most conveyancing activity starts after an offer has been accepted.

Should You Instruct a Solicitor Before a Survey?

Yes.

Many buyers appoint a solicitor before arranging a survey.

The survey and conveyancing process often run alongside each other, helping to keep the purchase moving forward.

Your solicitor will focus on the legal aspects of the property, while a surveyor assesses its physical condition.

Both are important parts of due diligence when buying a home.

How to Instruct a Solicitor When Buying a House

The process is usually straightforward.

Compare Quotes

Look beyond headline prices and check what’s included.

Choose a Solicitor or Conveyancer

Select a firm with experience in residential property transactions.

Provide Identification

You’ll typically need:

• Passport or driving licence

• Proof of address

• Evidence of deposit funds

Sign Terms of Engagement

Your solicitor will send paperwork outlining their fees and services.

Confirm Property Details

Once your offer is accepted, they’ll begin work on your purchase.

How Much Does a Solicitor Cost When Buying a House?

Solicitors’ fees vary depending on the property’s value and complexity.

Most buyers can expect legal fees of around:

• £800 to £2,000+ for standard conveyancing

• Additional costs for leasehold properties

• Separate disbursements such as searches and Land Registry fees

Obtaining quotes early helps you budget accurately before making an offer.

Common Questions About Instructing a Solicitor

At What Stage Do You Get a Solicitor When Buying a House?

Ideally, you should choose a solicitor before making an offer and formally instruct them as soon as your offer is accepted.

At What Point Do You Instruct a Surveyor When Buying a House?

Most buyers arrange a survey shortly after their offer has been accepted.

What Is the 6-Month Rule for Buying Property?

The six-month rule generally relates to mortgage lenders’ requirements when a property has changed ownership within the previous six months. Your solicitor can advise if this affects your purchase.

Final Thoughts

When to instruct a solicitor when buying a house is ultimately about staying one step ahead. While many buyers formally appoint a solicitor once an offer has been accepted, researching and choosing one earlier can help reduce delays and make the process less stressful.

Having your solicitor ready means the legal work can begin quickly, helping you move closer to exchange and completion.

Ready to start your property search? Browse homes and search property for sale.

If you’re looking for finance too, Purplebricks can help you find the right mortgage deals.

And if you need legal support for your move, learn more about Purplebricks’ conveyancing services through our book your free house valuation page.