Purchasing a new build property involves a different conveyancing process from buying an existing home. The contract structure, timescales and documentation involved mean you need a solicitor with specific experience in new build transactions.
New build conveyancing involves a reservation fee paid to the developer, followed by exchange of contracts within a set period (often 28 days) and completion linked to the build completion date. This means you may be legally committed before the property is finished — making careful contract review essential. Your solicitor should review all developer incentives, build warranties, completion guarantees and, for leasehold flats, the lease terms including ground rent and service charges.
Choosing a solicitor who regularly handles new build transactions and who is on the developer's approved solicitor list is important. Failing to exchange within the developer's deadline can result in reservation fees being forfeited or the purchase falling through.
Use our comparison service to find a regulated conveyancing solicitor for your transaction. We profile firms across the UK including Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Dundee, Manchester, Birmingham and London.