Buying a House.

Expert legal support to keep your purchase moving, from offer to completion.

An introduction to our conveyancing services

Buying a home can be exciting, but the process often comes with stress and uncertainty. Our conveyancing solicitors are here to make the process as smooth as possible.

We prioritise clear communication, proactive progress and no hidden fees. 

Anthony Henning
Director

FAQs

Commonly asked questions about buying a house.

1. How long does it take to buy a house?

On average, conveyancing takes between 8 and 16 weeks. The timeline depends on factors like the length of the property chain, the speed of your mortgage offer and how responsive the seller’s solicitor is.

We provide realistic timelines from the outset and give you honest updates if anything changes. If delays occur, we’ll tell you what’s causing them and what’s being done.

2. What should I do once my offer is accepted?

Once your offer has been accepted, your solicitor will begin the legal process. At Britton and Time, our work includes:

  • Carrying out checks on the title
  • Requesting searches
  • Examining the contract
  • Raising any necessary enquiries

We also liaise with the seller’s solicitor, your mortgage provider and your estate agent to keep everything on track.

When the paperwork is in order and all issues are resolved, we’ll arrange for contracts to be signed and deposit funds to be transferred. You’ll be kept fully informed from start to finish.

3. What are property searches, and why are they necessary?

Property searches help you make an informed purchase. They uncover important issues that might not be visible during a viewing or listed in the contract. For most purchases, you’ll need:

  • A local authority search to check for planning and road schemes.
  • A drainage and water search to confirm connections and responsibilities.
  • An environmental search to assess risks like flooding or contamination.

In some cases, we may also recommend coal mining, chancel repair or other location-specific searches.

Rest assured that we’ll personally explain exactly what’s needed and why, so you understand what you’re paying for and how it protects you.

4. What happens at exchange and completion?

Exchange and completion are the two final stages in your property purchase. At exchange:

  • Contracts are signed and legally exchanged with the seller
  • A completion date is set
  • Your deposit is transferred

Completion is when the purchase is final. The remaining funds are sent to the seller’s solicitor and the keys are released. We coordinate the entire process to make sure you know exactly what’s happening and when.

If any problems arise, we’ve got the experience and knowledge to deal with them swiftly so you can move forward without stress.

5. What if I’m buying with someone else?

Buying jointly comes with a few extra considerations. We’ll advise you on:

  • The best way to hold the property (joint tenants or tenants in common)
  • How your ownership shares will be recorded
  • What to include in a declaration of trust if needed

Our specialist conveyancing solicitors will make sure everything is legally clear between you and your co-buyer, whether you’re a couple, friends or family.

6. How can a solicitor help with my house purchase?

We’re proud to make the legal side of buying a home less daunting for our clients.

Our conveyancing solicitors offer fixed fees, fast responses and straightforward advice tailored to your needs.

Crucially, you’ll have one named contact throughout who knows your case and keeps you informed at every stage.

We move quickly, chase third parties when needed and act with care and clarity. We’ll help you navigate the process, avoid unnecessary delays and make confident decisions along the way.

That means less stress for you, and a smoother path to getting the keys.

7. Can I use the same solicitor for my sale and purchase?

Yes. If you’re selling one property and buying another, using the same solicitor for both can make things simpler.

We can manage both transactions together, ensuring the timing works and the legal steps are coordinated. It also means fewer people to update and fewer chances for crossed wires. Many of our clients choose this option for ease and peace of mind.

8. What’s included in Britton and Time’s fixed-fee conveyancing?

Our fixed fee includes all the standard legal work required to complete your house purchase. That typically covers:

  • Reviewing and advising on the draft contract
  • Requesting and reviewing property searches
  • Raising and resolving pre-contract enquiries
  • Managing exchange and completion
  • Registering your ownership with HM Land Registry

If your case includes added complexity, such as an unregistered title, leasehold restrictions or shared ownership, we’ll always let you know before any extra charges apply.

Transparency is central to how we work. You can see a full breakdown of costs.

Meet our expert conveyancing team.

Need legal advice now from a solicitor in London or Brighton?

Call, email or provide us with a few details of your matter, and we’ll help you arrange an initial consultation. You’ll get:

  • Unlimited time to discuss your matter with a solicitor.
  • An outline of your legal position and available options.
  • A clear time and fee estimate for your case.

How can we help?

Our Britton and Time Promise.

We know legal matters can be stressful, but we’re always here to help.

Full Billing Transparency

No fee surprises. With monthly itemised billing and a range of fee options from fixed fees to deferred fee arrangements, we’ll help you keep costs down.

Award-Winning Service

No chat bots or lengthy phone menus. Speak directly to a member of our team every time you contact us.

Regular Communication

We’ll reply to any questions you have within 24 business hours so you’ll have the information you need to make the right decisions.

Our Perspectives.

Whether you’re looking for the latest legal changes, or more information about a specific topic, our solicitors in London and Brighton maintain an extensive library of information on a wide range of legal areas.

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Our Perspectives.

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