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When comparing conveyancing quotes after your offer is accepted, make sure you understand exactly what you’re paying for. A clear, itemised quote gives you confidence and helps avoid unexpected costs later.
Legal fees
These cover the solicitor’s time and expertise. This includes acting on behalf of your mortgage lender, reviewing the TA6 Property Information Form (6th Edition) from the seller’s solicitor, handling completion, and submitting your Stamp Duty (SDLT) return to HMRC.
Since April 2025, the 0% Stamp Duty threshold for first-time buyers is £300,000 (for properties up to £500,000). Your solicitor ensures you claim the correct relief.
Disbursements
These are third-party costs passed directly to you at cost. They usually include the Local Authority Search Pack for checking planning, drainage, and environmental issues (£250-£450), Digital ID and AML checks for biometric identity verification and fraud prevention (£15-£30), the Land Registry registration fee to officially register your ownership (for example, £150 for a £350k home), and bank transfer fees via CHAPS for the secure movement of completion funds (£30-£45).
For more on the total costs of buying, see our guide on what to save for besides a deposit.
Additional fees
These cover situational work common for first-time buyers. Not every purchase needs these, but they’re common.
If you’re buying a leasehold property, there’s a supplement for the extra work involved in checking the lease. If you’re receiving financial help from family, there are gifted deposit checks (£50-£100). If you’re using a Lifetime ISA or Help to Buy ISA, there’s processing work to handle the government bonus release (£50-£75). Shared Ownership or First Homes Scheme purchases involve more complex contracts and attract supplements.
For more on gifted deposits, see our guide on using a gifted deposit to buy your first home.
Transparency is key
Always ask for a full itemised quote upfront, avoid vague “from” pricing. Fixed fees across all sections give you total certainty. Compare at least two or three quotes, and check that the firms are CQS-accredited and on your mortgage lender’s approved panel.
Next steps
Setfords provides fully itemised fixed-fee quotes for first-time buyers, covering all standard legal work and disbursements with no surprises. Our residential property solicitors specialise in your situation and can start immediately to keep your purchase moving.
