Best Conveyancing Solicitors in Exeter

How do I choose a good conveyancing solicitor in Exeter?

When you compare conveyancing quotes, look for a property solicitor with strong credentials, positive client feedback, and experience within the Exeter property market. Exeter has a mix of historic homes, new developments, and student accommodation, so local expertise can be especially valuable when navigating unique property types or planning regulations.

Make sure the solicitor clearly outlines their conveyancing fees and what services are included. Hidden costs can delay the process or lead to unexpected expenses.

Ensure the conveyancers you’re considering are fully accredited, either by the Council for Licensed Conveyancers (CLC) or the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA). This guarantees they meet professional standards and are legally qualified to handle your transaction.

You can contact them through their website, phone, or by visiting their office. Many will offer an initial consultation to discuss your conveyancing needs.

It’s also helpful to select a conveyancing solicitor who is already on the panel of approved firms set by your chosen mortgage lender, as this will help things go more quickly. You can check your lender’s website or ask them directly to find out if your conveyancer is on their panel.

While it’s not essential to use a solicitor based in Exeter, as much of the process can be handled remotely, a local solicitor may offer valuable insights into the Exeter housing market, local council procedures, and potential issues specific to the area, such as flood risks near the River Exe or conservation area restrictions.

To avoid delays, it’s best to engage a conveyancer early, either when you start looking for a property or before listing one for sale, so all legal aspects are promptly addressed.

How do Exeter property solicitors work?

Conveyancing solicitors in Exeter act on your behalf to manage the legal and administrative aspects of property transactions. Whether you're buying, selling, or doing both, their role is to ensure the transfer of ownership is handled smoothly and in full compliance with the law.

Their responsibilities typically include conducting conveyancing searches, preparing and reviewing contracts, liaising with other parties involved in the transaction, and advising on property laws relevant to Exeter and the wider Devon area. This local knowledge can be particularly useful when dealing with issues such as conservation areas, listed buildings, or flood zones near the River Exe.

According to reallymoving data, the average cost of conveyancing fees is around £2,368, including fees and disbursements. For a First Time Buyer, the average cost is £1,478. These figures can vary depending on the complexity of the transaction and the property’s location.

Your funds are protected when using a regulated conveyancer. Solicitors must hold client money in separate accounts, ensuring compliance with professional standards and safeguarding your finances throughout the process.

It is possible to do your own conveyancing, if you are a cash buyer, however it is strongly recommended to use a qualified solicitor. Conveyancing involves complex legal procedures, and hiring a professional minimises the risk of delays, disputes, or failed transactions.

What questions should I ask my conveyancing solicitor?

Start by asking about their experience with the Exeter property market. Even if they’re not based locally, they should be familiar with the area’s housing trends, local council procedures, and any unique considerations, such as conservation zones, listed buildings, or flood risks near the River Exe.

Next, enquire about their fees and what’s included. This should cover disbursements, expenses, and Stamp Duty. A clear breakdown will help you avoid unexpected costs later in the process.

Ask about the timeline for how long the conveyancing process will take, and how they plan to communicate updates to you. Typically, conveyancing takes 8-12 weeks, but this can vary depending on the property and circumstances. Your conveyancer should keep you informed and be available to answer questions or request documents throughout.

You may want to see if they offer no sale, no fee agreements. This means you won’t pay their legal fees if the transaction falls through, though you may still be responsible for disbursements already incurred.

Finally, confirm that they are regulated by a professional body, such as the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) or the Council for Licensed Conveyancers (CLC), and that they are approved by your mortgage lender’s conveyancing panel. This ensures they meet industry standards and can work efficiently with your lender. All conveyancers/ conveyancing solicitors on reallymoving are regulated by the SRA or CLC.

Is it better to use a solicitor or conveyancer in Exeter?

You can use both conveyancing solicitors and conveyancers to handle your property transaction in Exeter. Both are qualified to manage the legal process of buying or selling property, and the choice often comes down to personal preference and the complexity of your needs.

Conveyancing solicitors are trained in a broad range of legal areas, such as family law, litigation, or criminal law, and have chosen to specialise in property law. This can be useful if your transaction involves other legal matters, such as probate or divorce.

Licensed conveyancers, on the other hand, are specialists who focus exclusively on property law. Their training is dedicated to conveyancing, which makes them highly efficient for straightforward property transactions.

In Exeter, both types of professionals must be properly regulated. Solicitors are registered with the Law Society and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA), while licensed conveyancers are regulated by the Council for Licensed Conveyancers (CLC). You can check their credentials using the public registers provided by these bodies. All property solicitors and conveyancers quoted by reallymoving are regulated by one of these bodies. 

Ultimately, your decision should be based on what each firm or individual can offer that best suits your move to Exeter. Whether you value broader legal expertise or focused property law knowledge, make sure they are transparent about fees, responsive in communication, and familiar with the local property landscape, including any unique considerations like conservation areas or planning restrictions in parts of the city.