Let’s face it – comparing quotes can be overwhelming. With legal jargon and hidden fees, it can be difficult to know which one is actually the best deal. So how do you make sure you’re comparing like for like?
Our blog will help you understand what’s included, what to look out for, and how to make the right choice for your move.
Know What’s Included in a Conveyancing Quote
A good conveyancer will always provide a clear and transparent quote – but it helps to know what to look for.
Most quotes are broken into two parts:
- Legal fees – This is the amount your conveyancer charges for handling your transaction, including preparing legal documents, liaising with the other side, and guiding you through the process.
- Disbursements – These are fixed costs paid to third parties, like Land Registry fees, property searches, and bank transfer charges. Your conveyancer pays these on your behalf.
Transparent quotes will always include both. If a quote seems unusually low or doesn’t explain what’s covered then it may not reflect the full picture, leading to unexpected costs down the line.
Check What Searches Are Included
When you’re buying a home, your conveyancer will carry out a series of property searches to uncover any issues that could affect your purchase. These are a vital part of the legal process – and your quote should clearly state which searches are included.
The key searches to look for are:
- Local Authority Search – Reveals planning permissions, building regulations, road schemes and other local issues.
- Environmental Search – Checks for flood risks, land contamination, subsidence and other environmental hazards.
- Water & Drainage Search – Confirms whether the property is connected to mains water and sewerage, and if there are any public drains on the road.
These searches help protect you from nasty surprises down the line so it’s important to ensure they’re included in the quote. If they’re not, ask whether they’ll be added later and at what cost.
Be Aware of Optional Extras
Every property transaction is different, so some conveyancing quotes may include additional services depending on your specific situation. These aren’t hidden fees, but rather optional extras that may or may not be relevant to your move.
For example, if you’re receiving a gifted deposit from a family member, your conveyancer may need to prepare a declaration to confirm the source of funds. If you’re purchasing a leasehold property, there could be a leasehold supplement to cover the extra legal work involved.
Other examples include shared ownership agreements and declarations of trust for joint buyers. It’s important to understand which of these apply to you, and a good conveyancer will always take the time to explain what’s included in your quote and why so – there are no surprises down the line.
Don’t Just Compare on Price
It’s tempting to go with the lowest quote, but the cheapest option isn’t always the best value. Instead, consider the bigger picture:
- Experience matters – A slightly higher fee often means your conveyancer is more experienced and proactive.
- Communication is key – Look for someone who offers regular updates and clear, jargon-free advice.
- Professional regulation – Ensure your conveyancer is regulated by a trusted body such as the SRA (Solicitors Regulation Authority) or CLC (Council for Licenced Conveyancers).
- Check reviews – Client feedback gives valuable insight into the service you can expect.
Use a Trusted Platform to Compare
With so many conveyancing firms out there, it’s easy to get lost in a sea of quotes that aren’t always easy to compare. That’s where using a trusted platform like Simply Move Home makes a real difference. Our service gives you access to a handpicked network of regulated conveyancers who offer transparent, competitive quotes with no hidden extras. We show you exactly what’s included, so you can compare fairly and confidently to choose a solicitor who suits your needs and communication style.
Ready to Compare Quotes?
Choosing a conveyancer is a key part of your home-moving journey. By knowing what to look for in a quote (and what questions to ask) you can make sure you’re choosing a service that’s transparent, reliable and right for your move. At Simply Move Home, we make that process simple, straightforward and stress-free.
Get your free conveyancing quotes HERE.
