Buying, selling or remortgaging in Manchester is easier with an experienced conveyancing solicitor who communicates clearly, moves with pace and protects your position at every step. Below is a researched shortlist of ten of the best-reviewed conveyancing firms serving Manchester and Greater Manchester:-
1. Poole Alcock LLP
Established North West firm praised for efficient residential conveyancing across freehold and leasehold transactions, chain management and proactive updates.
Testimonial: “Good communication, highly recommend.”[1]
2. Isaacson & Partners Solicitors
Prestwich based boutique practice offering residential conveyancing with CQS accreditation, lender panel coverage and dedicated fee earner contact. Known for approachable service and clear, timely updates.
Testimonial: “A very friendly office… used them for several conveyancing transactions… most helpful and informative.”[2]
3. Ronald Fletcher Baker LLP
Well resourced team handling sales, purchases, remortgages and transfers of equity, with strong client care and responsiveness across Manchester.
Testimonial: “Very efficient and helpful from start to finish.”[3]
4. LPL – Leading Property Lawyers
High volume specialist conveyancer offering fixed fees, a client portal with real time case updates and clear onboarding guidance from a Manchester base.
Testimonial: “Did the conveyancing really quickly and professionally… portal page was helpful for quick updates.”[4]
5. SAS Daniels LLP
Regional firm with strong property teams known for pragmatic advice, good communication and steady case progression.
Testimonial: “Highly professional, proactive and efficient.”[5]
6. Bannister Preston Solicitors LLP
Well reviewed for clear process guidance and value, supporting first time buyers through to complex chains.
Testimonial: “Great communication, reasonably priced and excellent service.”[6]
7. Holden Smith Law Limited
Modern conveyancing practice combining technology with personal service, providing regular updates and solutions on trickier matters.
Testimonial: “I had unusual difficulties along the way and without their help I would have lost the purchase.”[7]
8. Amity Law
Dedicated conveyancing provider with a large team, praised for responsiveness and moving transactions along at pace.
Testimonial: “Used them for purchase and sale… both times excellent… went through so quickly.”[8]
9. AFG Law Limited
Established Greater Manchester firm covering the full range of residential property work with steady case management and regular updates.
Testimonial: “Fantastic job… kept us informed through the whole purchase.”[9]
10. Butcher & Barlow LLP
Long standing North West practice with multiple offices and an experienced residential property team supporting sales, purchases and remortgages.
Testimonial: “Helped us sell and buy… great throughout… would highly recommend.”[10]
Conveyancing in Manchester explained
- Fixed fee quotes usually exclude search fees, Land Registry and SDLT. Ask for an itemised estimate.
- Typical timeframes in Greater Manchester are 8 to 12 weeks. Leasehold and new build can take longer.
- Speed up completion by providing ID and source of funds promptly and completing property information forms early.
- Expect regular updates at key milestones: searches back, contract pack reviewed, mortgage offer received, enquiries raised and answered, exchange, completion.
- For leasehold, review ground rent, service charges, planned major works and management information early.
- For flats and new builds, check EWS1 or building safety position where relevant.
- Remortgage timelines can be shorter, often 3 to 6 weeks if title is straightforward.
- Online portals can improve visibility of progress but you should still have a named conveyancer.
- First time buyers should confirm any reliefs and deposit timelines with lender and solicitor.
- On completion day, keys are usually released once funds are received by the seller’s solicitor.
FAQs
How long does conveyancing take in Manchester?
Most freehold purchases complete within 8 to 12 weeks. Leasehold, new build or complex title issues can extend that. Early ID checks and quick replies to enquiries help reduce delays.
What are typical conveyancing costs?
Expect a fixed legal fee plus disbursements like searches and Land Registry fees. Ask for a written, itemised quote that includes bank transfer fees and SDLT filing.
Do I need a local Manchester solicitor?
Local knowledge helps with regional leasehold practices and managing agents. Many firms also work efficiently online, so choose on service, communication and reviews.
What documents will my solicitor need?
Photo ID, proof of address, source of funds evidence and mortgage details. Sellers should provide title documents, warranties, planning paperwork and completed property information forms.
What searches are required?
Local authority, drainage and water, environmental and often coal mining in parts of Greater Manchester. Your solicitor may recommend additional location specific searches.
When do I pay my deposit?
On exchange of contracts, typically 10 percent of the purchase price unless otherwise agreed. Your solicitor will confirm the exact amount and timing.
Can I exchange and complete on the same day?
It is possible but carries risks. A short gap of 5 to 10 working days between exchange and completion is common to organise removals and finances.
What if the survey reveals issues?
Your solicitor can raise enquiries, negotiate a price reduction or request repairs. You may decide to proceed, renegotiate or withdraw before exchange.
How does leasehold differ?
Additional enquiries on the lease, ground rent, service charges and management packs. Timelines can extend while waiting for information from freeholders or agents.
When do I get the keys?
On completion day once funds clear with the seller’s solicitor. Your agent is notified and releases keys shortly after.
Sources
- Poole Alcock LLP on ReviewSolicitors
- Isaacson & Partners Solicitors residential conveyancing
- Ronald Fletcher Baker LLP on ReviewSolicitors
- LPL – Leading Property Lawyers official site
- SAS Daniels LLP on ReviewSolicitors
- Bannister Preston Solicitors LLP official site
- Holden Smith Law Limited on ReviewSolicitors
- Amity Law official site
- AFG Law Limited on ReviewSolicitors
- Butcher & Barlow LLP residential property