Planning on moving home this year? Whether it is your first time or your thirty-first time, there are plenty of things to be excited about. But also pitfalls to avoid.

Partnering with a local conveyancing solicitor can make the process much simpler, and safer and let you focus on the most exciting elements of your move.

Here is what to know, if you’re moving home in Portsmouth in 2025.

When it comes to selling

For first-time buyers, you will not have to worry about this. But for those moving home, it can be easy to forget how complex things can become when you are selling your current home.

There are lots of plates to balance, and more often than not, a couple will fall. Our conveyancing solicitors can talk you through each step that needs to be taken as and when required, and they will negotiate deals on your behalf.

No two sales or purchases are the same. By choosing an expert team of local conveyancers, you will reduce the risk of any paperwork going wrong – and maximise your opportunity to focus on the more exciting parts of your move.

Don’t forget: surveying and stamp duty

Stamp duty is a fee or a tax that you pay to HMRC when you purchase a property that is worth over a certain price. Especially for first-time buyers, this can throw an unexpected spanner in the works when saving for your new home.

The rates, and cost to you, can sometimes be hard to estimate as each property is different – but we can help.

Importantly, it is essential to make enquiries yourself regarding the state of the property as your solicitor will not undertake this task.

Should you be acquiring a mortgage, your mortgage provider will organise a mortgage valuation. For lending purposes, this report will contain only rudimentary details concerning the state of the property. It is always prudent to commission a survey on a new home if you are unsure about its condition. 

 

This comprehensive inspection of the property will allow you to pinpoint any problematic areas.

The process of working with a solicitor

Whilst every case is unique, working with a conveyancing solicitor is likely to follow this process.

Outlining your move
We will explain what to expect from your move, the legal matters we will take care of and the expected timeframes for completion.

Contracts
We will prepare the required paperwork for your contract with the seller. Once both parties sign the contract, it is legally binding, and withdrawing may lead to financial penalties. Your solicitor and the seller’s solicitor will exchange signed contracts – and we will push to confirm a completion date.

Your move
All steps are undertaken to complete your move, including the transferral of funds for purchase.
We assist in preparing your tax return and arranging payment of Stamp Duty Land Tax to HMRC. Also, we will register your name as the owner and your mortgage provider as the lender at the Land Registry.

When the time comes, we will be by your side

Andrew & Andrew provide timely, resourceful and cost-effective legal solutions for all your conveyancing needs, and take care of all legal processes involved with your first home purchase.

We are here to help, whenever you are ready. To get started, please talk to our team.

Andrew & Andrew Solicitors proudly serve clients across Hampshire from our Portsmouth, Emsworth, and Wickham offices.