Buying a property is one of the most exciting and important decisions you’ll make — but it can also feel daunting, particularly if you’re navigating the legal process for the first time. That’s where conveyancing comes in.
If you’re looking to buy a home in SE16, whether it’s in Rotherhithe, Bermondsey, Canada Water, or Surrey Quays, understanding the conveyancing process will give you more confidence as you move from offer to completion. At Alex & Matteo Estate Agents, we’ve helped hundreds of buyers successfully move into their new homes in SE16, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
In this blog, we’ll break down the conveyancing process in simple terms — what it involves, who does what, and how to make it as smooth as possible.
Conveyancing is the legal process of transferring property ownership from the seller to the buyer. It begins once your offer has been accepted and ends when the sale is completed, and you receive the keys.
The process is typically handled by a solicitor or a licensed conveyancer who acts on your behalf to:
Once your offer has been accepted on a property in SE16, the first thing to do is instruct a conveyancing solicitor or licensed conveyancer. We recommend choosing someone who is familiar with the local area, as SE16 has unique features like leasehold riverfront apartments, dockland conversions, and shared ownership properties.
Ask your estate agent — like us at Alex & Matteo — for recommendations if you’re unsure where to start.
Your conveyancer will then carry out a series of searches and checks. These are essential to ensure there are no issues with the property or land that could affect your use or ownership.
Typical searches include:
Your solicitor will also review the title documents and raise enquiries with the seller’s solicitor about anything that needs clarification — for example, service charges, lease length, or rights of access.
If you’re buying with a mortgage, your lender will arrange for a valuation survey to assess the property’s market value. This ensures they’re lending on a suitable asset.
You may also choose to have a HomeBuyer Report or a full structural survey, especially if you’re buying an older property in areas like Bermondsey’s conservation zones or period conversions in Rotherhithe Village.
Once your mortgage is formally approved and all checks are complete, your solicitor will receive your mortgage offer and prepare for the next stage.
Next, your conveyancer will send you the contract pack, which includes:
They’ll go through the documents with you and explain anything you need to know — including any unusual clauses, covenants, or leasehold terms (particularly relevant for flats in Canada Water or Surrey Quays).
You’ll also receive a completion statement, which outlines the balance you’ll need to pay, including stamp duty, legal fees, and deposit.
Once everything is in place and both sides are ready, you’ll exchange contracts with the seller. At this point:
It’s common for there to be a one to two-week gap between exchange and completion, but this can vary. In chain-free transactions — which are relatively common in SE16’s new-build developments — it can happen on the same day.
On completion day, the final balance is transferred to the seller’s solicitor, and once that’s confirmed, the keys are released. You can collect them from the estate agent — and the property is officially yours.
Welcome to your new home in SE16!
After you’ve moved in, your solicitor will:
They’ll also notify your mortgage lender (if applicable) and ensure all legal paperwork is finalised.
SE16 is a unique part of London, combining modern developments with historic character. From riverside apartments at Canada Water to warehouse conversions in Bermondsey and Victorian terraces in Rotherhithe, no two transactions are exactly the same.
A solicitor or estate agent unfamiliar with SE16 might miss critical details, such as:
At Alex & Matteo, our in-depth knowledge of the SE16 property market means we can pre-empt many of the common delays and help keep your purchase on track.
Conveyancing may seem complex at first, but with the right support and a knowledgeable team by your side, it can be a straightforward process. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned investor, understanding each step — and working with professionals who know SE16 inside and out — will give you the best chance of a smooth, successful purchase.
Thinking of buying in Bermondsey, Rotherhithe, Canada Water or Surrey Quays? Get in touch with Alex & Matteo Estate Agents today for expert guidance and a friendly, local approach to property buying in SE16.
