At Harper Macleod, we understand that purchasing a property can be one of the most important and exciting events in our lives, but also one of the most stressful, which is where our conveyancing solicitors come in. Our skilled and experienced residential conveyancing team aims to achieve the best possible outcome for you and your family, while keeping the property transaction as fast and hassle-free as possible.

Our licensed conveyancers will thoroughly examine your property’s title deeds to ensure your interests are protected, explaining all relevant details before you commit to the purchase. From the initial conversation through to the exchange of keys, we'll keep you informed every step of the way and answer any questions you may have.

Are you ready to start your property journey?

Contact Harper Macleod today and let our expert conveyancing solicitors guide you every step of the way.

The conveyancing process explained

It’s crucial to understand the residential conveyancing process whether you are buying or selling a property. The following steps explain the process that ensures the lawful and smooth transfer of property ownership:

  1. Instructing a conveyancing solicitor: The journey begins by engaging a conveyancing solicitor who is experienced in handling residential property sales. Our Edinburgh-based solicitors are equipped with the specialist knowledge required to handle the legal intricacies involved in residential property transactions.
  2. Pre-contractual phase: Our team performs rigorous checks and searches to ensure there are no claims or legal issues regarding the property. These preliminary assessments help in providing a transparent view of the conveyancing fees and legal costs involved. This ensures there are no surprises for everyone from first-time buyers to people seeking to purchase an investment property. Our experienced team of property lawyers is adept at identifying and resolving common issues, from discrepancies in property boundaries to title defects or planning permission concerns. We aim to mitigate any potential future issues by thorough scrutiny during the entire process.
  3. Reviewing the draft contract: Once initial checks are complete, both parties review the draft contract. This step includes negotiating the purchase price and other terms, which is crucial for both parties to understand their obligations and rights.
  4. Exchange of contracts: This critical phase confirms the intent to purchase or sell, legally binding both parties. Our property solicitors ensure that every detail is double-checked before contracts are exchanged.
  5. Completion: The completion stage marks the final transfer of the residential property. After this, we manage all post-settlement tasks, including the registration of titles and mortgage documents, as well as providing a detailed statement of all conveyancing quotes and fees paid.

Harper Macleod continues to support you after completion. We handle any concerns swiftly, ensuring a seamless transition into your new property or concluding the sale of your property.

At Harper Macleod, we provide a professional service that simplifies the conveyancing process for you, making it as straightforward and stress-free as possible. We offer expert advice and assistance, backed by our commitment to excellence and a client-focused approach in all property transactions.

By choosing Harper Macleod, you’re making sure that your legal needs are handled by skilled solicitors, providing the peace of mind and the freedom to focus on what truly matters – your future home or investment.

Harper Macleod conveyancing solicitors

At Harper Macleod, our conveyancing solicitors are well-known for their dedication and expertise. The proof of this can be found in many positive client reviews and testimonials. We prioritise clear and consistent communication, ensuring our clients are well-informed at every stage of the transaction, from initial consultation to final property transfer. This approach ensures no stone is left unturned and provides that extra peace of mind for our clients.

We also offer a seamless one-stop-shop for all property needs by combining our estate agents and conveyancing solicitors into one team. Our estate agents handle the marketing and client interactions, while our solicitors take care of all legal formalities, including due diligence and contract negotiations. This collaboration streamlines the entire transaction process, providing a stress-free experience whether you're buying your first home, selling a property, or managing investment properties.

Conveyancing FAQ

  • What is conveyancing?

    Conveyancing is the legal process of transferring property ownership from one party to another. In Scotland, this involves several key stages, typically managed by a conveyancing solicitor or property solicitor. The role of these legal professionals is to ensure that all aspects of the property transaction comply with Scots law, from the initial offer to the final handover of keys.

    The process begins when an offer is accepted, and both parties instruct solicitors to carry out the necessary legal work. This includes conducting various searches to check for any legal barriers, arranging the payment of conveyancing fees, and preparing all documentation related to the sale. Conveyancing solicitors also handle the negotiation and preparation of the 'missives', the formal letters that constitute a binding contract under Scots law once all terms are agreed upon.

    Throughout the transaction, solicitors will advise their clients on all legal costs, provide conveyancing quotes, and manage the flow of money, ensuring that the transaction adheres to all legal requirements. For prospective buyers, this process is crucial as it confirms the property's legal title and facilitates the secure transfer of ownership, safeguarding their investment. For sellers, efficient conveyancing is vital to managing the sale smoothly and meeting all legal obligations associated with the disposal of their property.

  • Can you handle the sale and purchase of investment properties?

    Yes, we can handle the sale and purchase of investment properties. Our team of experienced conveyancing solicitors is well-versed in managing all aspects of property transactions, including those involving investment properties. We provide comprehensive legal services tailored to the needs of both sellers and prospective buyers, ensuring that every detail is carefully managed from start to finish.

    Our property solicitors will advise on all conveyancing fees, legal costs, and provide conveyancing quotes, helping you understand the financial implications of your transaction. We ensure that all legal requirements are met and that the transfer of property ownership is executed smoothly, securing your investment and protecting your interests throughout the process. Whether you're expanding your portfolio or making your first investment in the Edinburgh property market, our professional team is here to assist with expert advice and dedicated service.

  • How long does the conveyancing process take from start to finish?

    The duration of the conveyancing process can vary, but typically it takes around six to 12 weeks from the date an offer is accepted to the completion of the transaction. This timeline can be influenced by several factors, including the complexity of the transaction, the speed at which searches are completed, and the responsiveness of all parties involved, including solicitors, buyers, and sellers.

  • What legal documents are required for selling a property in Scotland?

    When selling a property in Scotland, several key legal documents are required to ensure the transaction complies with legal standards and progresses smoothly. The essential documents include:

    1. Title deeds: These are necessary to prove your ownership of the property and provide details on the boundaries and any rights or obligations that come with the property.
    2. Home Report: This includes a Single Survey (assesses the condition of the property and its value), an Energy Performance Certificate (provides details on the energy efficiency of the property), and a Property Questionnaire (offers a detailed account of the property’s council tax band, alterations made, and other relevant information).
    3. Land and Buildings Transaction Tax (LBTT) Return Form: This must be completed for tax purposes if the property being sold is over a certain value.
    4. Missives: The formal letters exchanged between the buyer's and seller's solicitors which, once agreed upon, form a binding contract.
    5. Completion statement: Prepared by the solicitor, this document outlines all financial transactions and balances due, including any outstanding mortgage balances and fees.

    Our team of property solicitors will guide you through the preparation and management of these documents, ensuring that every aspect of the sale is legally compliant and that the process runs as smoothly as possible.

Aileen Venables
Partner
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Useful links

Harper Macleod Personal Legal Services
Details of the other personal legal services we provide

Harper Macleod Services for Businesses & Organisations
Details of our commercial & public sector legal services

The Edinburgh Council - Council Tax
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Registers of Scotland
Scotland's national land and property registers

The Law Society of Scotland
The governing body of Edinburgh solicitors

ESPC
Leading property marketing portal in Edinburgh.

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  • Aileen dealt with the selling of my flat. She made everything run smoothly from start to finish, with no stress at all. Highly recommend!
    Lindsay Bell
  • Would like to take this opportunity to thank Aileen for the incredible service my partner and I received. Aileen helped us with the purchase of our house and made sure that the whole process was incredibly smooth. Thank you so much, we couldn't be happier.
    Stuart Gibson
  • We are first-time buyers and honestly couldn't have had better service and better dealings with Aileen. They have been quick and efficient with absolutely everything and have guided us through the process perfectly. They are a delight to work with and We would highly recommend them. Thank you again!
    Siobhan Ronalson
  • Dear Sonia, I am writing to express my heartfelt thanks for your exceptional assistance during the sale of our house. Your professionalism, dedication, and timely updates on all notes of interest and inquiries have been invaluable. Your attentive care and consistent communication ensured a smooth and stress-free process, and I truly appreciate the effort you put into keeping me informed every step of the way. Thank you once again for your outstanding support. It has been a pleasure working with you.
    David & Fiona Syme
  • Aileen was fantastic, professional & personable. Helped us buy our new home and finalise our mortgage. Highly recommend.
    Chris Black