Legal · 2 min read
Conveyancing when you sell without an agent
What your solicitor or conveyancer does, which forms you fill in, when the sale becomes binding, and how to keep a private sale moving.
Selling without an agent changes who finds the buyer, not how ownership is transferred. You still need a solicitor or licensed conveyancer. Choosing well and instructing early is the best way to avoid delays.
What your conveyancer does
- checks your identity and your title to the property
- sends the buyer’s solicitor a draft contract and your property information
- answers the buyer’s legal enquiries (with your help)
- gets a redemption figure from your mortgage lender
- exchanges contracts and completes the sale
- repays your mortgage and sends you the balance
Choosing one
In England and Wales you can use a solicitor or a licensed conveyancer. In Scotland and Northern Ireland, use a solicitor. Ask for a written, itemised quote and check what’s included: leasehold work, ID checks, bank transfer fees and Land Registry costs are common extras.
The forms you’ll complete
In England and Wales, most conveyancers use the Law Society’s standard forms:
- TA6 Property Information Form: boundaries, disputes, alterations, guarantees, services and more.
- TA10 Fittings and Contents Form: what’s included in the sale, what isn’t, and anything for sale separately.
- TA7 Leasehold Information Form for flats and other leasehold homes. See selling a leasehold flat.
Answer honestly and completely. Incorrect answers can lead to a claim against you after the sale.
The memorandum of sale
When you agree a sale without an agent, send both solicitors the same summary: buyer and seller names and addresses, the property, the agreed price, what’s included, the buyer’s funding (mortgage or cash) and any agreed timescales.
When is it binding?
In England and Wales, an accepted offer is not legally binding until contracts are exchanged. Citizens Advice notes there is nothing in law to stop either side changing their mind before then. At exchange, the completion date is fixed. In Scotland, the deal becomes binding when missives are concluded. Northern Ireland has its own procedure, so ask your solicitor how it works there.
Exchange and completion
After exchange, tell your utility suppliers and council. On completion day, the buyer’s money reaches your solicitor, your mortgage is repaid, and you hand over all keys and leave the home empty, as agreed.
Keeping it moving
- Instruct your conveyancer before you list, and fill in the forms straight away.
- Gather certificates now: building regulations sign-off, FENSA for windows, guarantees, gas and electrical safety records.
- Reply to questions within a day or two.
- Check in with the buyer politely, every week or two.
Sources
Last reviewed . This guide is general information, not legal or financial advice. Rules differ across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland and can change; check with a solicitor or conveyancer about your own sale.