Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, but let’s be honest – the legal side can feel confusing. Before you know it, you’re in the deep end of paperwork you don’t quite understand.
If you’re a first-time buyer in 2025, this blog will help you understand what conveyancing is, what to expect from the process, and how Simply Move Home makes it easier by connecting you with trusted conveyancers who will look after your legal work.
What is Conveyancing?
Conveyancing is the legal process of transferring your property from one owner to another. It’s handled by a licenced conveyancer or solicitor and includes:
- Checking the legal ownership of the property (title)
- Conducting searches (e.g local authority, environmental)
- Raising legal enquiries about the property
- Managing contracts and handling the exchange and completion
- Registering you as the new owner with the Land Registry
So basically, your conveyancer makes sure the home you’re buying is legally safe, financially secure, and fully yours.
What You Need to Know
1.) Digital Conveyancing
Most leading conveyancers now offer digital ID checks, e-signatures and online portals. Tip: Ask upfront how digital the process is. At Simply Move Home, we connect you with modern, tech-enabled conveyancers who won’t leave you waiting by the letterbox.
2.) AML Checks
You will need to prove your identity, and where your money has come from. Due to strict anti-money laundering (AML) rules, you will need to provide:
- Photo ID
- Proof of address
- Bank statements or savings proof
- Evidence of any gifted deposits (e.g from parents)
This isn’t about judging your finances – it is a legal requirement to prevent fraud and protect your transaction.
3.) Property Searches
Searches can uncover issues like flood risk, nearby planning permissions or road schemes. Your conveyancer will review and explain anything that could affect your purchase.
4.) Exchange & Completion
Many first-time buyers think the sale is done once their offer is accepted – but that’s just the beginning.
- Exchange of contracts – legally binding (this is when you must proceed)
- Completion – when you get the keys and move in
Tip: Your conveyancer will handle the contracts and confirm dates, but you should be clear with them on your timeline especially if you’re renting or moving out of another property.
5.) Fees
Conveyancing fees typically include:
- Legal fees (what the solicitor/conveyancer charges)
- Disbursements (third-party costs)
- Bank transfer fees
- Stamp duty (depending on property price)
In 2025, first-time buyers in England still benefit from reduced Stamp Duty, but this may vary by region or government updates so always check the latest rules.
We Can Make the Process More Simple
We know it’s a lot to take in, but we’re here to simplify the process.
At Simply Move Home, we offer free instant quotes from trusted conveyancers – connecting you with regulated professionals who are rated for their communication and efficiency. We like to ensure the firms we work with use modern tools and clear language to help first-time buyers feel informed, rather than overwhelmed.
In Summary
Conveyancing doesn’t have to be complicated but it does need to be done right. As a first-time buyer in 2025, the best thing you can do is prepare early, ask questions, and work with a conveyancer who puts your interests first.
Ready to take the next step? Get your free conveyancing quotes from Simply Move Home today – and take the stress out of your first home purchase. Simply click here!
