Best Conveyancing Solicitors in Folkestone

How do I choose a good conveyancing solicitor in Folkestone?

When you compare conveyancing quotes, look for a property solicitor with strong credentials, positive client feedback, and experience within the Folkestone property market. Folkestone has a mix of coastal homes, Victorian terraces, and new developments, so local knowledge can be particularly valuable, especially when dealing with unique property types or conservation areas.

Transparency is key: make sure the solicitor clearly outlines their conveyancing fees and what services are included. This helps avoid unexpected costs later in the process.

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

You can reach out to solicitors via their website, phone, or by visiting their office. Many offer an initial consultation to discuss your conveyancing needs and answer any questions you may have.

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 Folkestone, since much of the process can be handled remotely, a local solicitor may offer additional insights into the area’s property trends, planning regulations, and potential issues specific to Folkestone.

To keep things moving smoothly, it’s best to engage a conveyancer early, either when you begin your property search or before listing your home for sale. This ensures all legal aspects are addressed promptly and professionally.

How do Folkestone property solicitors work?

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

Your solicitor will carry out essential tasks such as conducting conveyancing searches, reviewing and preparing contracts, and advising on any local regulations or property laws specific to Folkestone. This can be particularly useful in areas with conservation zones, coastal planning restrictions, or unique property types common in Folkestone, such as period homes and seaside developments.

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.

When you use a conveyancing solicitor, your money is protected. They are required to hold client funds in separate accounts, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and safeguarding your finances throughout the process.

While it is technically possible to handle conveyancing yourself,  if you're a cash buyer, it is strongly recommended to use a qualified solicitor. Their expertise helps minimise the risk of delays, legal issues, or failed transactions. In a town like Folkestone, where local knowledge can be a real asset, professional guidance is especially valuable.

What questions should I ask my solicitor?

Start by asking about their experience with the Folkestone property market. Even if the solicitor isn’t based locally, they should be familiar with the area’s housing trends, planning regulations, and any unique considerations, such as coastal property restrictions or conservation zones that may affect your transaction.

Clarify their fees upfront. Ask for a breakdown of costs, including disbursements, expenses, and Stamp Duty, so you understand exactly what you’re paying for. Transparency here helps avoid surprises later.

Discuss the expected timeline for your conveyancing process. Typically, it takes 8–12 weeks, but this can vary depending on the complexity of the transaction and local factors. Ask how they plan to communicate updates, whether by phone, email, or an online portal, and how often you can expect to hear from them. You’ll need to provide documents and complete forms during the process, so clear communication is essential.

You may want to see if they offer no sale, no fee agreements. This means you will not have to pay the conveyancing fees if the purchase falls through, but you may still have to cover the cost of disbursements.

Finally, confirm that they are part of a regulated professional body such as the SRA (Solicitors Regulation Authority) or CLC (Council for Licensed Conveyancers), and that they are approved by your mortgage lender’s conveyancing panel. This ensures they meet professional standards and can work seamlessly 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 Folkestone?

In Folkestone, you can choose either a conveyancing solicitor or a conveyancer to manage your property transaction. Both are qualified to carry out the legal work involved in buying or selling a home, and the choice often comes down to personal preference and the specific services offered.

Conveyancing solicitors will have been trained in a variety of legal fields, ranging from family law through to litigation or criminal law. They have then chosen to specialise in property law. This can be useful if you anticipate needing legal advice beyond your property transaction.

Licensed conveyancers, on the other hand, are specialists who focus solely on property law. Their training is dedicated to conveyancing, which can make them highly efficient and knowledgeable in this area.

In Folkestone, whether you choose a solicitor or a conveyancer, they must be properly regulated. Conveyancing solicitors must be registered with the Law Society and are regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA), whereas Licensed Conveyancers are regulated by the Council for Licensed Conveyancers (CLC).

Both regulatory bodies will have a public register where you can search for an individual or a firm to check if they are regulated. All property solicitors and conveyancers quoted by reallymoving are regulated by one of these bodies. 

Ultimately, your decision should be based on what best suits your move to Folkestone. Consider whether you value broader legal expertise or focused property law knowledge, and compare what each firm offers in terms of service, communication, and fees. Local familiarity with Folkestone’s property market, especially its coastal developments, regeneration zones, and conservation areas, can also be a helpful advantage.