A conveyancing solicitor usually starts by taking your instructions, checking your identity and reviewing the draft contract and title documents. They arrange searches, raise enquiries with the seller’s solicitor, check the mortgage conditions and explain any legal issues or restrictions affecting the property. Once the contract and finances are ready, you sign and exchange contracts, making the transaction legally binding and setting a completion date. On completion, the solicitor transfers the purchase money, confirms you can collect the keys, pays Stamp Duty Land Tax where applicable and registers your ownership with HM Land Registry. The exact process and timescale can vary, so a solicitor regulated by the SRA can explain what applies to your transaction.