Author: numan
How to Check If a Conveyancing Solicitor Is Any Good
Choosing the right conveyancing solicitor can be the difference between a smooth, stress-free move—or a legal headache that drags on for months. But how do you know if a solicitor is genuinely good at what they do?
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned investor, here are the key things to look out for when choosing a conveyancer:
1. Recommendations from Friends and Family
Word of mouth is powerful. If someone you trust had a great experience with a conveyancing solicitor, that’s a strong endorsement. Ask for honest feedback—were they responsive, efficient, and clear? Would they use them again?
2. Online Reviews Matter
Before picking up the phone, check the firm’s reputation online. Focus on trusted platforms such as:
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Google Reviews – High volume and star ratings are good signs.
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Facebook – Local community recommendations and direct engagement.
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TrustPilot – Known for credible service reviews across industries.
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ReviewSolicitors – Tailored for legal services with detailed solicitor performance metrics.
Be wary of solicitors with no reviews, consistently poor ratings, or vague, overly generic testimonials.
3. Are They Online-Only or Do They Have a Physical Office?
While online-only conveyancers can offer lower prices, many clients still prefer the peace of mind that comes with knowing there’s a real office you can visit if needed. A firm with a physical presence is often more established and accountable.
At Versus Law Solicitors, we’re not just an online name—we have an office where you can meet your legal team face-to-face.
4. Are They Members of the Conveyancing Quality Scheme (CQS)?
The Law Society’s Conveyancing Quality Scheme (CQS) is a recognised mark of excellence. Firms that hold CQS accreditation have passed rigorous checks around client service, risk management, and staff training.
Choosing a CQS-accredited firm gives you confidence that your transaction will be handled professionally and in line with best practices.
5. Professionalism and Communication
From the first call or email, you should get a feel for how professionally the firm operates. Are they responsive? Do they explain legal jargon clearly? Are their communications timely and respectful?
Good solicitors take the time to understand your situation and keep you informed every step of the way.
6. Avoid the Hard Sell
A quality solicitor lets their service speak for itself. If you’re feeling pressured to sign up quickly, or being bombarded with follow-up calls and emails, that’s a red flag.
Reputable firms don’t need to hard sell—they build trust by being transparent, helpful, and available.
7. Ease of Getting a Quote
You shouldn’t have to jump through hoops to understand how much conveyancing will cost. Transparent pricing is essential, with no hidden extras.
At Versus Law, we offer a free, instant online quote tool so you can get a full breakdown of your conveyancing costs in seconds:
Try Our Free Quote Calculator
8. Experience and Specialisation
Some solicitors handle conveyancing as a side service, while others, like us, specialise in property transactions. Ask how long the firm has been doing conveyancing and whether they handle similar cases to yours regularly.
More experience usually means smoother handling of unexpected issues.
9. Accessibility and Case Handling
Is there a dedicated case handler for your transaction? Can you get hold of them easily by phone or email? Communication breakdowns are a major cause of stress during conveyancing, so make sure the firm prioritises accessibility.
10. No Hidden Fees
Always ask for a clear breakdown of costs. Watch for vague wording or small print that may hide disbursements or additional charges. A good firm will be upfront about all fees and keep you informed throughout.
Final Thoughts
When choosing a conveyancing solicitor, you’re not just buying a legal service—you’re trusting someone to safeguard your most important transaction.
✅ Ask around
✅ Do your research
✅ Look for transparency, communication, and accreditation
At Versus Law Solicitors, we pride ourselves on professionalism, client service, and clear pricing. Whether you’re buying, selling, remortgaging or dealing with auctions or leaseholds—we’re here to help.
Speak to our friendly team today
️ Or get an instant quote: Conveyancing Calculator
10 Legal Pitfalls Buyers Face at Auction (and How to Avoid Them)
Thinking of buying a property at auction? Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a seasoned investor, or an overseas purchaser looking to break into the UK property market, auctions offer an exciting (and often fast-paced) route to owning real estate. But with that speed comes risk — especially if you’re not prepared for the legal complexities that can surface after the hammer falls.
At Versus Law, we specialise in helping clients across England navigate the auction process smoothly. In this article, we highlight 10 of the most common legal pitfalls buyers face at auction — and how you can avoid them with the right legal advice.
1. Bidding Without Reviewing the Legal Pack
Many buyers bid first and read later — a costly mistake. The auction legal pack contains crucial documents like the title register, lease (if applicable), and Special Conditions of Sale. Missing or unclear clauses could mean extra costs or liabilities after the auction.
✅ Avoid it: Always instruct a solicitor to review the legal pack before bidding. Our expert auction solicitors can help →
2. Underestimating the Power of Special Conditions
Special Conditions of Sale can override standard auction terms. They often include hidden fees, tight deadlines, or obligations like paying the seller’s legal costs — all of which are binding once you win.
✅ Avoid it: Have a solicitor go through the special conditions line by line. These clauses can cost thousands if ignored.
3. Relying on Post-Auction Searches
Searches (like local authority, drainage, or environmental) are a key part of due diligence — but at auction, contracts are exchanged immediately. If you haven’t reviewed searches beforehand, it’s too late.
✅ Avoid it: Only bid if searches are included in the pack — or if you’re happy taking the risk. A solicitor can help interpret what’s missing.
4. Buying Leasehold Without Lease Clarity
Auction leaseholds can be minefields. Short leases, unknown ground rents, or missing LPE1 forms can make the property unmortgageable or come with significant hidden costs.
✅ Avoid it: Understand the lease terms, length, service charges, and whether a lease extension is possible. Short leases under 80 years need urgent attention.
5. Not Understanding Title Defects
From restrictive covenants and flying freeholds to possessory titles and unregistered land — any of these can affect the use, value, or resale of your auction property.
✅ Avoid it: Your solicitor should flag any title risks and advise on indemnity insurance or long-term implications.
6. Not Being Ready to Insure Immediately
Once the hammer falls, you’re legally responsible for insuring the property — even before completion.
✅ Avoid it: Arrange buildings insurance the same day. Your solicitor can confirm who carries the risk and when.
7. Mortgage Not Ready in Time
Many buyers wrongly assume a mortgage can be sorted after the auction. But completion deadlines are often just 14 or 28 days. If your funds aren’t ready, you risk losing your 10% deposit — or worse.
✅ Avoid it: Get a decision in principle in advance. Consider bridging finance if timing is tight.
8. Buying a Tenanted or Occupied Property Without Clarity
Some properties are sold subject to tenancies, regulated tenants, or even informal occupants — meaning you won’t get vacant possession.
✅ Avoid it: Read the tenancy documents and Special Conditions. If “vacant possession” isn’t guaranteed, you may face delays or legal action to evict.
9. Forgetting About Extra Fees and Taxes
You don’t just pay the winning bid. Auction fees, buyer’s premiums, Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT), and even seller legal costs can stack up fast.
✅ Avoid it: Ask your solicitor to provide a full financial breakdown — not just the headline sale price.
10. Assuming You Can Change Buyer Details Later
You can’t easily change the buyer name (e.g. to an SPV or company) after the auction. If the name on the memorandum of sale is wrong, you may breach the contract.
✅ Avoid it: Decide in advance how the property will be held. Always bid using the correct legal entity.
Preparation Is Everything
Buying at auction can be rewarding — but it’s not the time to “wing it.” Every year, we see buyers lose thousands through avoidable mistakes. The good news? With the right legal advice before bidding, most of these pitfalls can be prevented.
At Versus Law, our specialist auction property solicitors act for clients across England — including first-time buyers, cash buyers, overseas investors and companies.
Get a Free Auction Conveyancing Quote
Want peace of mind before you bid?
Use our instant calculator to get a fixed fee auction quote:
Or learn more about our service:
Auction House Conveyancing Services
Why Clients Choose Versus Law
- Fast turnaround on legal pack reviews
- Trusted by auction houses across England
- Experienced in leasehold, unregistered titles & regulated tenancies
- Clear, fixed-fee pricing
C Collins
I must say, having used Versus Law on quite a few occasions now, they have been brilliant. That being said, the company is only as good as the staff within that company and I have to say, In Umi Bhamjee, they have a brilliant solicitor she has guided me throughout the transactions, she has been my solicitor, case manager/advisor and therapist on the last 3 properties that I have purchased. She has gone that extra mile to ensure things have gone smoothly. Thank you to Umi and Versus Law. I will definitely continue to use this fantastic solicitors.
Z Ash
Umi was really professional and handled my case quickly and smoothly. She was clear, helpful and kept everything on track, which made the whole process much easier for me. She was responsive whenever I had questions and made sure the matter was handled without unnecessary delays.
Overall, I really appreciated how calmly and professionally Umi dealt with my case. She made what could have been a stressful situation feel much more straightforward, and I’m very happy with the way she handled everything.
Adam
I instructed Versus Law for a FTB purchase of a flat in Whalley Range, which unfortunately fell through after an utterly horrific 14-month ordeal due to the incompetence of the seller’s solicitors. I am grateful to Chima then Andrew who took over the file for putting up with them, and especially to the latter who waivered my final bill in recognition of how awful my experience had been. Despite losing the flat, this gesture truly lifted my spirits. I have rated Versus 4 stars, just on the basis of some communication issues early on in the process, however the complaint I made was dealt with and responded to professionally. I will use them for my next purchase, which hopefully this time will be successful.
JP
I had an excellent experience working with Katarzyna, during the sale of my property (no.29). She was professional, efficient, and incredibly thorough throughout the entire process. Katarzyna was always quick to respond to emails and patiently explained every step, making sure I fully understood everything. Her attention to detail and calm, reassuring approach made what could have been a stressful time feel smooth and manageable. I truly appreciated her dedication and would highly recommend her services to anyone looking for a reliable and knowledgeable solicitor.
J Marsh
Dealing with this firm and Stephanie Pyle was like returning to a time that doesn’t exist anymore, in the 70’s and 80’s when British customer service was the best in the World, when people actually cared, and bent over backwards to be the best, Versus Law are this, they bent over backwards to help me, rarely do I give a firm 100 out of 100 but they just got this, they made my bank, insurance, car insurance and anything elese in modern Britain look like amateurs when compare to the customer service that Versus Law offer.
K OConnor
These guys saved me when my original solictor said I would be looking at losing thousands from a title issue at a property auction and didn’t take it on the purchase. 3 weeks later the purchase was complete and all issues sorted! If you’re buying at auction, would recommend these guys as it is a specialities of theirs
What are the stages of conveyancing?
Buying or selling a property is one of life’s major milestones, but it can also be a source of stress if you’re unfamiliar with the legal processes involved. Conveyancing – the legal transfer of property ownership – is essential to every transaction, and understanding the key stages can help demystify the journey. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, upsizing, downsizing, or selling an investment property, this guide will take you through the complete conveyancing process from start to finish.
Instructing a Conveyancer
The process begins as soon as an offer is accepted. At this point, you’ll need to get a conveyancing quote and appoint a solicitor or licensed conveyancer to represent you. Once instructed, your conveyancer will issue a letter of engagement outlining their terms and request some initial details from you, including proof of identity and information about how you’re funding the purchase.
If you’re the buyer, your conveyancer will also ask for funds on account to cover search fees and other third-party costs. On the seller’s side, your solicitor will contact the buyer’s solicitor to confirm their instruction and start preparing the contract pack. This initial stage is critical because it sets the wheels in motion for all the legal checks and paperwork that follow.
Drafting the Contract and Initial Checks
The seller’s solicitor prepares the draft contract and collates supporting documents, including evidence of ownership (title deeds), property information forms (TA6), and a fixtures and fittings list (TA10). If the property is leasehold, a leasehold information form and management pack will also be required.
The buyer’s solicitor will review the draft contract and title documentation and begin raising preliminary enquiries. These could relate to boundaries, any rights of way, restrictive covenants, or discrepancies in the plans. The goal is to clarify any legal concerns or issues that might affect the property’s value or use.
Property Searches and Surveys
Once the paperwork is in hand, the buyer’s solicitor will carry out a series of legal property searches. These typically include a Local Authority search (for planning issues or building regulations), a water and drainage search, and an environmental search to assess flood risks or contamination. Depending on the property’s location, additional searches such as mining or chancel repair liability may be necessary.
At the same time, it’s strongly recommended that buyers arrange a survey of the property. A HomeBuyer Report is suitable for most modern homes, while an older or non-standard property may require a more comprehensive Building Survey. The survey assesses the property’s condition and highlights any major repairs or structural issues, which could lead to renegotiation or further investigation.

Raising Enquiries and Resolving Issues
As the search results and survey reports are returned, the buyer’s solicitor will review them alongside the draft contract and raise further enquiries if needed. For example, if a survey reveals damp or structural movement, your solicitor may request guarantees, planning permissions, or proof of remediation from the seller.
This stage is where most delays occur, particularly if issues are flagged that require additional paperwork or expert input. Prompt communication between solicitors, clients, and estate agents can help keep things moving. Once all concerns have been addressed and the solicitor is satisfied, the transaction moves forward.
Mortgage Approval and Insurance
Buyers obtaining a mortgage will need to have a formal mortgage offer in place. Your solicitor will review the lender’s instructions and ensure the terms are compatible with the purchase. Once confirmed, you’ll need to arrange buildings insurance to start from the date of exchange, as from that point, you are legally responsible for the property—even before you’ve received the keys.
Signing the Contract
When everything is in order—enquiries answered, searches clear, the survey reviewed, and the mortgage in place—your solicitor will provide a final report summarising the purchase. This includes the legal title, any relevant conditions, and advice on any outstanding matters.
You’ll be asked to sign the contract and other documents, including the mortgage deed and, where relevant, a transfer deed or management company forms. Your solicitor will also ask you to transfer the deposit funds, which are usually 10% of the purchase price, in preparation for exchange.

Exchange of Contracts
Exchange of contracts is the point at which the sale or purchase becomes legally binding. Both parties agree to a fixed completion date, which is written into the contract. The solicitors then formally exchange contracts—usually by phone—and send them to each other by post.
If you’re part of a chain, exchange will only happen once every party is ready. From this point onward, neither party can back out without facing significant penalties. It’s now time to prepare for moving day.
Between Exchange and Completion
The days or weeks between exchange and completion are all about preparation. Your solicitor will request the mortgage funds from the lender and issue you a final financial statement detailing the full balance due.
You’ll need to ensure that any remaining funds are transferred to your solicitor in time. It’s also the right moment to arrange removals, take final meter readings at your old home, and prepare utility and broadband setups for the new property. Your solicitor will also place a legal priority over the property with the Land Registry in preparation for registration.
Completion Day
On the agreed completion date, your solicitor sends the balance of funds to the seller’s solicitor. Once received, the seller confirms that they’ve vacated the property and authorises the estate agent to release the keys. At that moment, legal ownership passes to the buyer and you can officially move in.
Although completion typically occurs by early afternoon, delays can happen if funds are received late, so it’s best to plan for a flexible moving day.

After Completion
While the move may feel complete, a few important legal tasks remain. Your solicitor will pay any Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) on your behalf and submit an application to HM Land Registry to formally register you as the new legal owner. This process can take several weeks or months, depending on the property and the Registry’s workload.
If you’re buying a leasehold property, your solicitor will also notify the freeholder and management company of the change in ownership. Finally, you’ll receive a copy of the updated title and deeds to keep safe.
Post-Move Considerations
Once you’ve settled in, it’s wise to consider updating your Will and reviewing any insurance or financial arrangements, particularly if your purchase marks a major life change. You should also confirm council tax banding, take utility readings, and file all documents securely for any future sale or remortgage.
At Versus Law Solicitors, our experienced team ensures each stage of conveyancing is handled with the diligence and clarity you deserve. Whether buying or selling, we’re here to support you from initial instruction to completion and beyond.
How much does a typical bridging loan cost?
How much do bridging loan costs
Bridging loans serve as a financial stopgap, providing quick, short-term funding to individuals or businesses awaiting more permanent financing. Commonly used in real estate transactions, these loans can be instrumental when purchasing a new property before selling an existing one, or when immediate capital is needed for renovations or auction purchases.
Understanding the costs associated with bridging loans is crucial. Unlike traditional loans, bridging loans often come with higher interest rates and additional fees, reflecting their short-term nature and the speed at which they are arranged. Being aware of these costs ensures borrowers can make informed decisions and avoid unexpected financial burdens.
Typical Interest Rate Costs for Bridging Loans
Interest rates on bridging loans are typically quoted monthly, ranging from 0.5% to 2%. While this may seem modest, it’s essential to recognize that these rates translate to annual percentages between 6% and 24%, significantly higher than standard mortgage rates. Factors influencing these rates include the loan-to-value (LTV) ratio, the borrower’s creditworthiness, the property’s condition, and the loan’s duration.
Example:
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Loan Amount: £100,000
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Monthly Interest Rate: 1%
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Monthly Interest Payment: £1,000
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Total Interest Over 6 Months: £6,000
This example illustrates how quickly interest can accumulate, emphasizing the importance of a clear repayment strategy.
Arrangement Fees for Bridging Loans
Arrangement fees, also known as facility fees, are charges imposed by lenders to cover the administrative costs of setting up the loan. These fees typically range from 1% to 2% of the loan amount.
Example:
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Loan Amount: £200,000
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Arrangement Fee at 2%: £4,000
While some lenders may allow this fee to be added to the loan balance, it’s essential to confirm this, as it can affect the total amount repayable and the interest charged.
Valuation and Legal Fees For Bridging Loans
Before approving a bridging loan, lenders require a professional valuation of the property to assess its market value and ensure adequate security for the loan. Valuation fees can vary based on the property’s size and location, typically ranging from £300 to £1,500.
In addition to valuation fees, legal fees are incurred to handle the legal aspects of the loan agreement. Both the borrower and the lender will have legal representatives, and the borrower is usually responsible for covering both parties’ legal costs. Legal fees can range from £500 to £1,500, depending on the complexity of the transaction.
Exit and Early Repayment Fees on Bridging Loans
Exit fees are charges applied when the loan is repaid, typically at the end of the agreed term. These fees are usually around 1% of the loan amount, although not all lenders impose them.
Early repayment fees may be charged if the borrower repays the loan before the end of the agreed term. These fees compensate the lender for the interest they would have earned had the loan run its full course. It’s crucial to review the loan agreement carefully to understand any potential early repayment penalties.
Comparison Table: Typical Bridging Loan Costs
| Cost Component | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| Monthly Interest Rate | 0.5% – 2% |
| Arrangement Fee | 1% – 2% of loan amount |
| Valuation Fee | £300 – £1,500 |
| Legal Fees | £500 – £1,500 |
| Exit Fee | 0% – 1% of loan amount |
| Early Repayment Fee | Varies |
| Broker Fee | 0.5% – 1.5% of loan amount |
| Administration Fee | £100 – £500 |










