A property solicitor handles the legal side of buying or selling, including checking the title, ordering searches, reviewing the contract and liaising with your lender. Ask for a clear written quote showing the legal fee, VAT, search costs and likely additional charges, and check who will deal with your matter. For protection, choose a solicitor regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA), or a licensed conveyancer regulated by the Council for Licensed Conveyancers. The process and terminology differ in Scotland, so check guidance relevant to where the property is located.