Be on Guard against the Fraudsters - they are very clever and convincing: Before handing money over to pay for a Property - please ensure that the Solicitor you use is Registered. It is important to do this to avoid someone taking your money who is falsely claiming to be a Solicitor, Agent or Vendor. Also, be on guard about  people who offer to do conveyancing for you free of charge - remember - there's no such thing as a free lunch: If they don't run off with your money then you can be sure they will cover their expenses in subsequent charges. Do shop around, but the 'cheapest' doesn't always turn out to be the 'cheapest'. Ask what is and is not included in their services.