Summer is one of the busiest times of year for the UK property market. With longer days, school holidays, and warmer weather, it’s an ideal time to plan a house move. But while summer may be the perfect season for packing boxes and settling into a new home, it can also come with higher costs — especially when it comes to conveyancing.
If you’re planning to move this summer, understanding your conveyancing costs upfront is essential to staying on budget and avoiding last-minute surprises. Here’s what you need to know.
What Is Conveyancing and Why Does It Matter?
Conveyancing is the legal process of transferring property ownership from one person to another. Whether you’re buying or selling, you’ll need a conveyancer or solicitor to handle this process. It involves tasks such as:
- Carrying out local authority searches
- Checking the title and legal documents
- Liaising with the other party’s solicitor
- Managing contracts and funds transfer
- Registering the new ownership with the Land Registry
While it’s possible to do some of these tasks yourself, the legal complexities and risks mean most people hire a professional.
Typical Conveyancing Costs in the UK (2025)
Conveyancing fees vary depending on factors such as location, property price, and whether you’re buying, selling, or both. As a general guide:
| Type of Transaction | Typical Conveyancing Cost |
|---|---|
| Buying only | £800 – £1,500 |
| Selling only | £700 – £1,200 |
| Buying and selling | £1,300 – £2,500 |
| Remortgaging | £300 – £800 |
These figures include legal fees and may also include standard disbursements — third-party costs your solicitor pays on your behalf.
Key Disbursements to Budget For
Beyond the solicitor’s base fee, there are several additional charges you’ll likely encounter. These include:
- Searches – £250–£400
Local authority, water/drainage, environmental, and other relevant searches. - Land Registry Fees – £20–£910 (based on property value)
- Bank Transfer Fee – £25–£50
For transferring funds securely during completion. - Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) – Varies based on property price and buyer status
First-time buyers may qualify for reduced or zero rates. - ID Verification – £10–£20 per person
Always ask for a full quote that includes these disbursements so you can compare total costs — not just the base legal fee.
Why Summer Moves Can Cost More
With more people moving house during the summer, demand for conveyancers increases. This can lead to:
- Longer processing times – Search delays and solicitor workloads may slow down transactions.
- Fewer available firms – High demand may reduce your choice of conveyancers.
- Premium pricing – Some firms may charge higher rates during peak periods.
Getting your conveyancing quote early — and locking in a fixed-fee deal — can help avoid these issues and give you peace of mind as your moving date approaches.
Fixed-Fee Conveyancing: A Smart Way to Save
Not all conveyancing quotes are created equal. Some solicitors charge hourly rates or hide extras in the small print. That’s why many home movers prefer fixed-fee conveyancing — where you pay one agreed price for a clearly defined service.
At Compare Conveyancing, we help you compare fixed-fee conveyancing quotes from trusted solicitors across England and Wales. Our service ensures:
- No hidden extras
- Transparent pricing
- Easy online comparisons
- Quick quotes tailored to your needs
Tips for Budgeting Your Summer Move
- Start early – Get your conveyancing quote well before peak summer dates.
- Compare all-inclusive quotes – Look for fixed-fee services that clearly break down costs.
- Budget extra for delays – Build in a cushion in case your transaction takes longer.
- Check your SDLT status – First-time buyer or home mover? Use an SDLT calculator to estimate your tax bill.
- Ask what’s included – Make sure your quote covers all key disbursements and services.
Ready to Move This Summer?
If you’re planning a move this summer, don’t let legal costs catch you off guard. Visit Compare Conveyancing today to compare fixed-fee quotes and get your move off to a smooth, affordable start.
