Conveyancing Solicitors in Manchester

When it comes to residential conveyancing in Manchester, our expert conveyancing solicitors will be on hand to make sure that everything goes ahead as smoothly as possible.

If you are buying, selling or remortgaging a home, you will no doubt be aware of some of the risks associated with carrying out such a significant property transaction. That is where our expert property solicitor will be able to lend their expertise, guiding you through the entire process to help you avoid those potential pitfalls.

At Bird & Co, our property solicitors in Manchester provide a convenient, reliable conveyancing service that is designed to make the entire process as straightforward as possible.

We offer a quick and efficient online conveyancing service, which means we are able to reach a wide number of clients in and around Manchester, including Stretford, Salford and Didsbury.

To get in touch with a member of our conveyancing team in Manchester, give us a call, or fill in our online enquiry form and a member of our team will be in touch with you very shortly.

How our conveyancing solicitors in Manchester can help you

Our team of conveyancing solicitors have expertise in a wide range of conveyancing matters, including:

Buying and selling your home
Advice for first time buyers, such as:
- Help to Buy
- Shared Ownership
Remortgaging
Equity release
Advice about buying as joint tenants or tenants in common
Buying and selling listed property
Buying and selling leasehold property
Collective enfranchisement and buying the freehold of a house
Lease extension
Transfer of equity
Gifting property and Deeds of Gift
Buy to let conveyancing
Buying and selling land
Commercial conveyancing
Stamp Duty advice

We are on the panel for most major lenders. This means that we will be able to support you whether you are using a national firm or local building society.

Why Choose Bird & Co’s Conveyancing Solicitors in Manchester?

We provide an online conveyancing service, which means that we will be able to guide you through the conveyancing process remotely. There will be no need for you to visit us at our physical offices – everything can be taken care of without you having to leave the comfort of your home.

The service we provide is designed to make the conveyancing process as straightforward as possible.

When you work with us, you will always have direct correspondence with our conveyancing team, as well as a direct email address for the solicitor who is handling your case.

We are accredited by the Law Society Conveyancing Quality Scheme. This means that we will:

Provide high quality legal advice
Get your conveyancing transaction completed as efficiently as possible
Provide top quality customer service and respond to queries quickly
Keep you regularly updated and never leave you in the dark about the status of your transaction
Be upfront and honest about your fees – we will provide you with an accurate quote before you instruct us so that you can decide whether we are right for you

We are also Lexcel accredited by the Law Society. This demonstrates our commitment to delivering the highest standards of customer service and practice management.

Why instruct our online conveyancers instead of a conveyancer in Manchester?

Our property lawyers have in-depth knowledge of the national property market, as well as the local Manchester market. Other firms may only be able to deal with local transactions.
Our online systems have been developed with sensitive communication in mind. We have a number of procedures which ensures all of the legal documentation involved in online conveyancing transactions is kept secure. These include encrypting emails, securing our devices and putting malware protection in place.
We can get your conveyancing done quickly and efficiently. As we can carry out the conveyancing process remotely, there are far fewer potential delays to worry about.
Online conveyancing tends to be more cost-effective. Traditional conveyancing work incurs various additional costs. These can be avoided with online conveyancing.
We have dealt with property transactions around the country, even for clients who are on the other side of the world. We often keep in touch with our clients outside the UK using video conferencing.
Our legal obligations to you remain the same as if we were meeting in person. There are no differences to the overall conveyancing process and we are fully insured just in case.

Our conveyancing fees – how much does our conveyancing cost in Manchester?

We provide a range of flexible fees for our conveyancing work. This includes fixed fees for straightforward conveyancing work, where you will have a clear idea how much you will need to pay from the outset. If additional costs are required to complete your transaction, this will be clearly explained to you by your conveyancing solicitor.

Additional costs that are associated with the conveyancing process are known as disbursements. Examples of disbursements include registering transactions at HM Land Registry and conveyancing searches.

If your transaction is going to be affected by tax, such as Stamp Duty Land Tax or Capital Gains Tax, your conveyancing solicitor will be able to help you calculate how much is owed and file the return with HMRC.

Conveyancing FAQs

How does the conveyancing process work in Manchester?

There are three main stages to the conveyancing process. These are:

Offer and acceptance
Exchange of contracts
Completion

When an offer is accepted on a home, the buyer and seller agree to enter into a contract. As signatures have not been exchanged, the transaction is not yet legally binding.

At this stage, the buyer will work with their conveyancing solicitor to carry out a number of conveyancing searches. The searches and checks they carry out could include:

Reviewing property information provided by the seller and making further enquiries if necessary (done by the conveyancing solicitor)
Conducting conveyancing property searches, such as local authority checks (done by the conveyancing solicitor)
Carrying out an independent survey (done by the buyer)

The buyer will also apply for a mortgage at this stage.

Once the searches have been completed and both parties are happy to progress, contracts will be signed and exchanged. This is a pivotal moment, as the transaction will now be legally binding.

Completion is where the transaction becomes official. At this stage, a transfer deed will be submitted to HM Land Registry and the seller will need to leave the property, ready for the buyer to move in.

How long does conveyancing take in Manchester?

Under normal circumstances, a conveyancing transaction will take around 12-14 weeks to reach from the date an offer is accepted, and conveyancing solicitors are instructed.

However, there are a number of different factors which can have an effect on the time it takes to complete a transaction. If there are likely to be significant delays to the process, your conveyancing solicitor will keep you informed.

What searches are involved in conveyancing in Manchester?

If you are buying a home, your conveyancing will carry out various checks to make sure that there are no issues with the property. These are called conveyancing searches:

There are three main types of conveyancing searches:

Local authority checks – to check the surrounding area for planning, pollution, highway, pollution or other related issues
Environmental searches – to check for issues such as flooding or land contamination
Water and drainage searches – to check matters such as water and drainage access

If further checks are required, your conveyancing solicitor will let you know. This will usually depend on the type of property in question and where it is situated.

What documents does a property solicitor in Manchester need for conveyancing?

When it comes to conveyancing in Manchester, property solicitors require various documents to ensure a smooth transfer of property ownership. Key documents needed include the Title Deeds, which provide crucial information about the property's ownership history, boundaries, and any restrictions. The solicitor will also request the Property Information Form completed by the seller, containing essential details about the property's condition, fixtures, and fittings.

Additionally, local searches, such as the Local Authority Search and Environmental Search, are necessary to gather information about planning permissions, building regulations, flood risks, and environmental factors. The Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), which assesses the property's energy efficiency, and the Fittings and Contents Form, listing included or excluded items, are important as well. Mortgage-related documents, such as the Mortgage Offer and Redemption Statement, may also be required if the buyer is obtaining a mortgage. By obtaining and reviewing these documents, property solicitors in Manchester can ensure a comprehensive assessment of the property's legal status and provide their clients with expert advice throughout the conveyancing process.

Should I hire a conveyancing constructor or do it myself?

The decision to hire a conveyancing solicitor or handle the process yourself depends on various factors, although going the DIY route is not recommended. While it is legally possible to undertake conveyancing without professional assistance, it is a complex and legally binding process that can be time-consuming and risky for those without experience. Hiring a conveyancing solicitor provides several advantages.

Solicitors have the expertise and knowledge to navigate the intricacies of property transactions, ensuring all legal requirements are met and potential issues are identified and resolved. They conduct necessary searches, handle paperwork, and provide valuable advice throughout the process. Instructing a conveyancing solicitor involvement can help mitigate risks, protect your interests, and provide peace of mind.

Additionally, solicitors have professional indemnity insurance to cover any errors or negligence during the process. While handling conveyancing yourself may save on legal fees, the potential risks and complications may outweigh the cost savings. It is advisable to consider the complexity of the transaction, your knowledge of conveyancing law, and the value of having expert guidance before making a decision. Ultimately, consulting with a qualified conveyancing solicitor can provide you with the necessary guidance to make an informed choice tailored to your specific needs and circumstances.

What issues should buyers consider when buying a home in Manchester?

When buying a home in Manchester, there are several important issues that buyers should consider. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:

Location: Manchester is a diverse city with various neighbourhoods, each offering a different lifestyle, amenities, and property prices. Consider the proximity to your workplace, schools, transportation links, and local amenities such as shops, parks, and healthcare facilities.
Property prices: Manchester's property market has experienced significant growth in recent years, particularly in popular areas. Research property prices in the neighbourhood you're interested in and compare them to your budget. Take into account potential future value appreciation as well.
Property condition: Assess the condition of the property you are considering. Older homes may require more maintenance and could have potential structural issues. Conduct a thorough inspection and consider getting a survey done to identify any hidden problems.
Transportation: Manchester has a well-developed transportation network, including buses, trams, and trains. Consider the proximity to public transportation if you rely on it for commuting or if you prefer convenient access to travel around the city.
Local amenities: Evaluate the availability of essential amenities like schools, supermarkets, medical facilities, parks, and recreational areas. Check if the area has the amenities that are important to you and align with your lifestyle preferences.
Crime rates and safety: Look into the crime rates in the neighbourhood you're interested in. Consult local crime statistics and speak to residents to gain insights into the safety and security of the area.
Future developments: Research any planned developments or construction projects in the vicinity. While new developments can enhance an area, they might also bring disruption during the construction phase and change the character of the neighbourhood.
Flood risk: Manchester has experienced some flooding incidents in the past. Consider the flood risk and check if the property is located in a flood-prone area. Consult flood maps and insurance providers to understand the potential impact and associated costs.
Energy efficiency: Consider the energy efficiency of the property. Look for features such as double glazing, insulation, and efficient heating systems. Energy-efficient homes can help reduce utility bills and have a positive environmental impact.
Legal and financial considerations: Ensure you have a clear understanding of the legal and financial aspects of buying a property. Engage a solicitor or conveyancer to guide you through the process and conduct necessary checks, such as property title, ownership, and any restrictions or obligations tied to the property.
Remember to conduct thorough research, visit the area multiple times, and seek professional advice when necessary to make an informed decision when buying a home in Manchester.

How do you instruct our conveyancing solicitors in Manchester?

To get in touch with a member of one of our conveyancers in Manchester, you can give us a call or fill in our online enquiry form to request a call back.

Our Manchester conveyancing team will be able to run through the initial stages of your conveyancing transaction and, once your file is opened, your conveyancer will take care of all of the legal details related to your transaction.

Whether you are moving to, from, or across Manchester, our conveyancing solicitors will be able to lend their expertise.

Get in touch with our conveyancing solicitors in Manchester

Get in touch with our conveyancing solicitors in Manchester by giving us a call or filling in our online enquiry form and a member of our team will be in touch shortly.