The Role of Solicitors in the Mortgage Process
What do solicitors actually do in the mortgage process? Here is a breakdown of their role, from offer to completion.
Solicitors often feel like the hidden players in the mortgage process. You will hear about them when it is time for searches, contracts, and completion. What do they actually do, and why are they essential?
Here is a breakdown of the solicitor’s role and how they help get you over the finish line.
Handling legal checks
Solicitors carry out searches to make sure there are no issues with the property such as planning restrictions or local authority concerns.
Managing contracts
They prepare and review contracts between buyer and seller, ensuring everything is legally binding and protects your interests.
Liaising with the lender
Your solicitor receives the mortgage offer and confirms that all legal requirements are met before funds are released.
Holding and transferring funds
On completion day, the solicitor handles the transfer of money from the lender to the seller, ensuring the financial side runs smoothly.
Protecting your ownership
They register you as the new owner with the Land Registry and deal with stamp duty if it applies.
The Bottom Line
Solicitors are the legal backbone of the mortgage process. Without them, contracts could not be exchanged and purchases could not complete. Choosing a proactive solicitor makes the whole process smoother and less stressful.
Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage or other loan secured against it.
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Yes. Lenders require a solicitor or conveyancer to handle the legal process.
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It varies, but typically between eight and twelve weeks depending on searches and the chain.
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Yes, although some lenders have approved panels you will need to select from.
