However, the new-build home buying process in the UK works differently from purchasing an existing property. Understanding how completion works, what to expect from developers, and how to prepare financially and legally can make your move far smoother. 

Here’s what you need to know when buying a new-build home this summer. 

Why Summer Is a Peak Season for New-Build Home Completions in the UK 

Summer is traditionally one of the most active periods for new-build property completions across the UK. 

Key reasons include: 

• Longer daylight hours and better weather conditions for viewings, inspections, and removals  

• Developers targeting end-of-season completion deadlines  

• Newly laid turf and landscaping establish more successfully during summer months.  

• External snagging issues are easier to identify in dry weather.  

• Buyers can test ventilation and solar gain before winter arrives.  

For many buyers, completing in summer also means settling in before the busy autumn and winter months. 

Understanding the New-Build Completion Process 

As construction nears completion, developers will issue a Notice to Complete. This is the trigger point that takes the new-build process from reservation to legal completion, and a specialist in new-build conveyancing becomes essential for you at this point
at this stage.

This is an important stage in the new-build process: 

• It confirms the property is ready for occupation  

• It triggers a strict legal completion timeframe  

• Buyers must ensure mortgage funds and the deposit are in place  

• Removal and moving plans should already be arranged  

Because notice periods are often short, preparation is essential to avoid delays or penalties or, in worst cases, losing your reservation deposit. Have your agreement in principle current and a conveyancer engaged before the Notice arrives.

5 Things to Do When Moving Into a New-Build Home in Summer 

Summer is the perfect time to get familiar with your new home and make practical adjustments early. 

1. Check how your home handles summer heat 

Assess how different rooms respond to warmer temperatures so you can plan cooling, shading, and furniture placement effectively. Open windows throughout the home and observe how air moves between rooms. Identifying natural cooling patterns can help improve comfort during warmer months and highlight any areas where additional ventilation may be beneficial. It’s also a good opportunity to familiarise yourself with any ventilation systems installed in your new-build home. 

2. Observe natural light throughout the day

Summer provides the longest daylight hours, making it the ideal time to understand how sunlight moves through your home. Notice which rooms receive morning or evening sun and how this affects comfort and daily use. 

This can help you make informed decisions about furniture layouts, home working spaces, and where additional shading may be beneficial. 

3. Give your new-build garden time to establish

New-build gardens simply need time. Fresh turf often requires a full growing season to establish properly, while newly landscaped areas can continue settling during the first year. 

Follow your developer’s guidance on watering and mowing and avoid major landscaping projects until the ground has fully settled. It’s also worth checking whether your purchase agreement includes any restrictions on fences, outbuildings, trees, or other garden alterations during the early years of the development. 

4. Review window glare and sun exposure

Large windows are a popular feature in many new-build homes, helping maximise natural light. During summer, however, they can also increase glare and solar gain in certain rooms. 

Monitor how sunlight affects different areas throughout the day so you can decide where blinds, curtains, window films, or other shading solutions may improve comfort and energy efficiency.  

5. Spot and report snagging issues early

Summer’s dry, bright conditions make it easier to inspect the exterior of your property. Check for issues such as cracks in render, uneven paving, drainage concerns, gaps around external fixtures, or problems with guttering and downpipes. 

If you identify anything that needs attention, record it and raise it with your developer as part of the snagging process. Addressing issues early can help ensure they are resolved before autumn and winter weather arrive. Most issues fall under your NHBC, LABC, or Premier Guarantee warranty; these will be covered by the New-build conveyancing, which will help clarify the warranty scope for your new property purchase.

How a Conveyancing Solicitor Can Help With Your New-Build Purchase 

New-build purchases often involve more complex legal checks than standard property transactions. 

A specialist conveyancing solicitor will typically review: 

• Developer contracts and terms of sale  

• Planning permission and building regulations  

• New home warranty documentation (e.g. NHBC or equivalent)  

• Drainage, roads, and adoption agreements  

• Completion schedules and legal deadlines  

Having expert legal support helps reduce risk and keeps your purchase progressing smoothly from reservation to completion. 

Get Moving this Summer! 

Buying a new-build home in summer can be an exciting step, offering the chance to move into a modern property at the perfect time of year. However, understanding the new-build completion process, preparing for a Notice to Complete, and planning practical details such as heat, light, and outdoor space will help ensure a smoother move 

At PLS Solicitors, our experienced conveyancing team supports buyers through every stage of the new-build purchase process, from reservation through to completion. If you’re buying a new-build home this summer, we’re here to help keep your transaction on track so you can focus on settling into your new home. 

The post Buying a New-Build Home in Summer? What Buyers Need to Know Before Completion  appeared first on PLS Solicitors.

“Buying our first home felt overwhelming at times, but the entire process was made so much easier thanks to the exceptional support and guidance we received from our solicitor Michelle. Her professionalism, attention to detail, and willingness to answer all of our questions gave us complete confidence throughout the transaction. Nothing ever felt like too much trouble, and she worked hard to ensure everything progressed as smoothly as possible. We are incredibly grateful for all her help in making our first home purchase such a positive experience and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend PLS to anyone looking for a reliable, knowledgeable, and friendly solicitor. Thank you for helping us reach such an important milestone!”

-Stephanie

A Big Step, Made Manageable

Buying a first home is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. There is a lot to take in, a lot of paperwork, and a lot of unfamiliar terminology. Having someone who takes the time to guide you through every stage with patience and clarity turns what can feel like a daunting process into something far more manageable.

Confidence Built on Attention to Detail

Throughout the transaction, Michelle’s professionalism and thorough approach gave this client real confidence that everything was being handled with care. Knowing that nothing is being missed and that every detail is being looked after is one of the most reassuring things a first time buyer can feel.

Nothing Ever Too Much Trouble

Every question was welcomed, every concern was addressed, and nothing ever felt like an inconvenience. That kind of approachability is so important, particularly for first time buyers who may not always know what to ask or when to ask it.

Congratulations on Your First Home!

A huge congratulations to our client on reaching such an important milestone, and a brilliant well done to Michelle for making the whole experience such a positive one.

Are you a first time buyer looking for a team you can trust? We would love to help you take that first step. Get in touch today.

The post 5 Star Friday: “Helping Us Reach Such an Important Milestone” appeared first on PLS Solicitors.

While summer can be an excellent time to move, it can also make coordinating a property chain more challenging. 

Why Summer Property Chains Are More Complex 

Most property transactions are linked to other sales and purchases. A buyer relies on a seller, who may be buying another property, creating a chain where multiple transactions need to progress together. 

During the summer, holidays, family commitments and travel plans can affect availability and preferred completion dates. As a result, agreeing a timetable that works for everyone becomes especially important. 

This doesn’t necessarily make summer transactions more difficult, but it does mean there are more dates to coordinate. Sharing availability early helps everyone in the chain work towards a realistic exchange and completion timetable and and instructing a conveyancing solicitor for buyers who knows how to manage chain dynamics is half the battle.

What If Someone in the Chain Goes Away?

It’s a common scenario during the summer months: someone in the chain has a holiday booked. Fortunately, this doesn’t automatically put a transaction on hold.

Many stages of the conveyancing process continue behind the scenes regardless of individual absences. Searches are carried out, enquiries are raised and answered, mortgage offers are processed. The key is making sure your solicitor knows about planned absences as early as possible.

When holidays are flagged in advance, arrangements can usually be made to accommodate them. Documents can be signed before departure, authority can be given where needed, and timetables can be adjusted to avoid completion days falling during someone’s absence.

When expectations are clear, it becomes much easier to keep progress moving and avoid last-minute surprises.

Communication Keeps Chains Together

If there is one factor that helps summer transactions run smoothly, it’s communication.

Property chains involve multiple parties, each with their own priorities and timescales. Keeping everyone informed of travel plans, preferred completion dates and availability allows decisions to be made with greater certainty.

Clear communication also helps maintain momentum, ensuring that when opportunities arise to move the transaction forward, everyone is ready to act.

How to Plan Your Summer Move: A Practical Timeline

Every transaction is different, but most summer completions benefit from the following approach. Working backwards from your ideal moving date with these stages in mind makes it far easier to spot potential clashes early and aligns naturally with the timeline after an offer is accepted.

• As early as possible: Instruct your solicitor, share holiday dates, and discuss your target completion window
• During the conveyancing process: Respond to all requests quickly; delays compound in a chain
• 4–6 weeks before target completion: Confirm removal company, give notice on rental if applicable, start planning your move day logistics
• 1–2 weeks before exchange: Ensure all parties in the chain have confirmed their availability for the completion date
• Exchange: Legally binding — both parties are committed
• Completion day: Keys are released, funds transfer, and you move in

Working backwards from your ideal moving date with these milestones in mind makes it far easier to spot potential clashes early.

Frequently Asked Questions

Supporting a Smooth Summer Move

Every property transaction is unique, but summer chains often benefit from proactive planning and regular communication between all parties involved.

We at PLS Solicitors, we work closely with buyers, sellers, estate agents and lenders to help keep transactions progressing smoothly throughout the summer months.

By understanding the wider chain and maintaining clear communication, we help clients move forward with confidence, whatever their summer plans may look like.

The post Summer Moving Guide: How to Keep Your Property Chain on Track appeared first on PLS Solicitors.

“We recently completed a property purchase with PLS Solicitors, and we couldn’t be more impressed with the service we received. From start to finish, the team delivered a level of professionalism and efficiency that made the entire process smooth, transparent, and far less stressful than we expected.What stood out most was their clear and consistent communication. Every step was explained in plain English, and were were kept fully updated throughout the transaction. Whenever had questions, the team responded quickly and helpfully, ensuring we understood what was happening and what to expect next. Their attention to detail and commitment to meeting deadlines gave us real confidence. Tasks such as searches, contract checks, and liaising with the seller’s solicitors were handled promptly and with great care. It was clear that they prioritise both accuracy and efficiency, which made the process feel seamless. We also appreciated their friendly and approachable manner. Buying a property can be overwhelming, but the team made everything feel manageable. Their professionalism, combined with a genuinely supportive attitude, made a huge difference. Overall, I would highly recommend PLS Solicitors to anyone purchasing a property. They offer a reliable, knowledgeable, and client‑focused service that truly stands out. Thank you to the whole team for making this such a positive experience.”

-Skatonha

Far Less Stressful Than Expected

Property purchases have a reputation for being stressful, but with the right team in place, it does not have to feel that way. From the very first interaction through to completion, the team ensured everything felt calm, organised, and completely manageable. That is exactly the experience every client who comes to PLS deserves.

Explained in Plain English

Legal processes come with a lot of terminology that can feel overwhelming if it is not properly explained. From the very first step, the team made sure everything was communicated clearly and in straightforward language, so there was never any confusion about what was happening or why. No jargon, no ambiguity, just clear and honest guidance throughout.

Kept Fully Updated Throughout

One of the most common frustrations in a property transaction is not knowing where things stand. That was never an issue here. The team provided consistent updates at every stage and responded promptly whenever questions arose, ensuring the client always felt informed, reassured, and in control of the process.

Searches, Contract Checks, and Seller Liaison Handled With Care

There is a lot that happens behind the scenes during a property purchase that clients rarely see. Searches, contract reviews, and liaison with the seller’s solicitors all need to be handled with precision and care, and every single one of those tasks was completed promptly and thoroughly. The result was a transaction that felt seamless and well-managed from beginning to end.

Congratulations on Your New Home!

A huge congratulations to our clients on completing their purchase, and a brilliant well done to the whole team for delivering such a positive experience from start to finish.

Thinking about your next move? Whether you are buying or selling, we would love to help make the process as smooth and straightforward as possible.

The post 5 Star Friday: “Far Less Stressful Than We Expected” appeared first on PLS Solicitors.

However, because demand increases during this period, the summer property market can also feel faster-paced. Planning ahead can help you stay organised and reduce unnecessary stress throughout the moving process. 

If you’re preparing for a summer house move, these practical tips will help you stay ahead during the busiest season of the year. 

Why Summer is a Busy Time to Move House 

The summer property market tends to see increased activity as families aim to complete moves before the new school year and homeowners take advantage of better weather conditions. 

This higher level of activity can mean: 

• More competition when buying and selling property  

• Increased demand for removals companies  

• Busier estate agents, lenders, and surveyors  

• Tighter scheduling across property chains  

Understanding this early can help you plan your move more effectively. 

Summer House Moving Tips: Plan Your Move Early 

One of the most effective ways to ensure a smoother move is to start planning early even before you have accepted an offer or found a property. 

Practical steps include: 

• Researching removals companies in advance  

• Considering flexible moving dates  

• Preparing for increased demand in peak summer weeks  

• Allowing extra time for coordination across your property chain  

Being organised early can help reduce pressure later in the home-buying process. 

How Does Summer Affect Property Transactions and Conveyancing?

Unlike other times of year, summer often includes annual leave across the property sector, which can affect communication and response times. 

When moving house in summer, it’s important to be aware that progress can sometimes feel slower due to seasonal pressures. 

Common factors include: 

• Holiday periods affecting the availability of professionals  

• Higher demand for conveyancing services  

• Increased workload for mortgage lenders and surveyors  

• Delays in coordination across property chains  

These factors are a normal part of the summer property market. Staying responsive and keeping communication open can help minimise delays. 

Stay Flexible With Completion Dates 

Completion dates during summer can be influenced by multiple factors, including removals availability, mortgage processing times, and coordination across the chain. 

Being flexible where possible can help keep your move progressing smoothly. 

Rather than relying on a fixed date, agreeing a target completion window can: 

• Reduce stress during negotiations  

• Improve coordination across the chain  

• Increase the likelihood of a successful completion  

Flexibility is often key in the busiest months of the property calendar. 

A Smoother Summer Move Starts With Good Timing 

While summer can be one of the most exciting times to move, it’s also one of the most logistically demanding. 

Planning ahead, staying flexible, and thinking practically about how seasonal factors affect your move can make a noticeable difference. 

If you’re planning a move this summer, getting organised early can help you stay one step ahead of the seasonal rush. At PLS Solicitors, we offer modern conveyancing in UK with case tracking so, even when the market is busy in peak summer, your purchase keeps moving.

The post How to Stay Ahead During the Summer Moving Season appeared first on PLS Solicitors.

“As a first-time buyer, I needed reassurance and guidance throughout the process, and everyone I spoke to at PLS was attentive, supportive, and genuinely helpful. Chloe was incredibly thorough with her enquiries, ensuring I had a completely clear picture of the property and allowing me to make a fully informed decision. I know people who have faced serious issues after purchasing because important details were missed, so I truly appreciated Chloe’s diligence and attention to detail.Not only was Chloe extremely thorough, but she was also consistently responsive, quick to answer emails, and always approachable over the phone whenever I had questions. She was beyond fantastic, and I’m incredibly grateful to have had her in my corner during such a stressful experience.”

-Susannah

Sometimes the Best Outcome Is the One That Protects You

Not every property purchase reaches completion and sometimes that’s the right result. When Susannah’s purchase raised serious concerns during the process, it was Chloe’s thorough and diligent approach that gave her the full picture she needed to make an informed decision. That kind of protection is what great conveyancing is really about.

Thorough Enquiries That Make a Real Difference

Attention to detail isn’t just a professional standard, it can save clients from costly mistakes down the line. Susannah knows people who have faced serious problems after purchasing because important details were missed. Thanks to Chloe’s diligence, that wasn’t going to happen here.

Always Approachable, Always Responsive

No question felt like too much trouble. Chloe was quick to respond to emails and always available by phone, ensuring Susannah never felt alone in the process even as it became increasingly uncertain. That consistency of support matters enormously, particularly for first-time buyers navigating unfamiliar territory.

No Pressure. Just Genuine Support.

When the time came to make a difficult decision, Chloe made sure Susannah never felt rushed or pushed in any direction. The choice was hers, and Chloe made certain she had everything she needed to make it with confidence. That’s the kind of solicitor everyone deserves.

First-Time Buying Done Right

We’re sorry this particular purchase didn’t work out, but we’re proud to have been in Susannah’s corner throughout. When she finds the right property, we know exactly who she’ll be calling and we can’t wait to help her get there!

Thinking about your first home? Whether you’re just starting out or ready to move, we’d love to make the process as clear and stress-free as possible.

The post 5 Star Friday: “I’m incredibly grateful to have had her in my corner” appeared first on PLS Solicitors.

We explain how to make an offer on a house, what happens after your offer is accepted, and the key stages involved before you receive the keys to your new home.

How to Make an Offer for a House

If you are wondering how to make an offer on a house, the process usually starts through the estate agent marketing the property either by phone, in writing, or via their website.

Before making an offer, buyers should:

• Research local sold property prices
• Understand current market conditions
• Arrange a mortgage Agreement in Principle (AIP)
• Budget for conveyancing fees, surveys, and Stamp Duty
• Check how quickly they can proceed with the purchase

Sellers will often consider more than just the highest offer. Buyers who are chain-free, have their finances in place, and can move quickly may be viewed more favourably.

One of the most important home buying tips is to instruct a conveyancing solicitor early. Having a conveyancer ready means the legal process can begin immediately once your offer is accepted, helping reduce the risk of delays later in the transaction.

Deciding on Your Initial Offer

Your initial offer should reflect the property’s value, condition, and local market demand.

Some buyers choose to offer below asking price, especially if:

• The property has been on the market for a long time
• Repairs or refurbishment are needed
• Similar properties have recently sold for less

However, offering too low in a competitive market could risk losing the property altogether.

A sensible offer supported by evidence is more likely to be taken seriously by the seller.

Negotiating House Price

Negotiating house price is common in the UK property market. The seller may accept, reject, or counter your offer.

If there are multiple interested buyers, you may be asked to submit a “best and final offer”, which is the highest amount you are willing to pay.

Before increasing your offer, always consider your financial limits and any future repair costs.

Offer Accepted on House: What Happens Next?

Having your offer accepted on a house is exciting, but the purchase does not become legally binding until contracts are exchanged.

Once accepted:

1. Your conveyancer reviews contracts and carries out searches
2. Your mortgage lender completes checks and a valuation
3. Property surveys may be arranged
4. Legal enquiries are raised with the seller’s solicitor

If you are unsure how long these stages typically take, our guide on the home-buying timeline after an offer is accepted explains the process in more detail.

Completion of a House

After contracts are exchanged, a completion date is agreed.

On completion of a house:

• Funds are transferred
• Ownership legally changes hands
• Keys are released to the buyer

Your conveyancer then registers the property with HM Land Registry and finalises any Stamp Duty requirements.

Your Conveyancing Journey Made Easier

From making your initial offer to successfully reaching completion on a house, preparation and expert legal support can make the process much easier. The right conveyancing team will keep you informed at every stage, flag any issues early, and protect your interests through to completion.

At PLS Solicitors, our experienced conveyancing team supports buyers at every step, helping transactions progress smoothly from offer to completion.

The post Making an Offer on a House: Everything UK Buyers Need to Know appeared first on PLS Solicitors.

“Alex has been absolutely amazing from start to finish. From the very first conversation, they made everything feel clear and manageable, guiding us through each stage with real professionalism and care. We were kept fully informed throughout the entire process, no chasing, no uncertainty, just consistent updates and reassurance when we needed it. What really stood out was how approachable and easy Alex was to deal with. Nothing ever felt like too much trouble, and every question was answered quickly and clearly. Buying or selling a property can be stressful, but Alex made the whole experience feel smooth and straightforward. I genuinely couldn’t recommend them highly enough. Alex is a pleasure to work with and a real credit to PLS Solicitors.”

No Chasing. No Uncertainty.

One of the standout themes in this review is consistency. Regular updates, prompt answers, and a process that never left the client wondering where things stood. That kind of proactive communication removes the stress before it even has a chance to build.

Approachable From Start to Finish

Nothing ever felt like too much trouble. That’s not something clients say by accident. It speaks to a genuine commitment to making every interaction as easy and straightforward as possible, however big or small the question.

Guidance at Every Stage

Property transactions have a lot of moving parts, and it can be hard to know what to expect at each step. Having someone who takes the time to guide you through the process clearly and patiently makes a world of difference, and that’s exactly what was delivered here.

Special Shoutout to Alex

Alex received a glowing personal mention and it is thoroughly deserved. Described as a pleasure to work with and a real credit to PLS, Alex’s professionalism, care, and approachability shone through at every stage of the transaction.

Congratulations on Your New Home!

A huge congratulations to our client on completing their purchase, and a brilliant well done to Alex for delivering such an outstanding experience.

Thinking about your next move? Whether you are buying or selling, we would love to help make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.

The post 5 Star Friday: “Took the Stress Out of Buying Our House” appeared first on PLS Solicitors.

This recognition is particularly meaningful to us because exceptional client care is central to everything we do. We understand that buying or selling a property can often feel complex and demanding, which is why our team is committed to providing clear communication, expert guidance, and consistent support throughout every stage of the conveyancing process.

To receive national recognition for our dedication to client service is an achievement we are incredibly proud of, and one that reflects the hard work, professionalism, and commitment of every member of the PLS team.

We would also like to extend our sincere thanks to our clients for placing their trust in us. Your confidence and support continue to inspire us as we strive to deliver the highest standards of service.

At PLS Solicitors, we remain committed to revolutionising conveyancing for our customers, one transaction at a time.

The post The Conveyancing Awards 2026 – Winner of Outstanding Client Care appeared first on PLS Solicitors.

At PLS Solicitors, we believe in making the conveyancing process as straightforward and transparent as possible. This guide will highlight some of the key costs first-time buyers should be aware of. 

Property Purchase Tax

When buying a property, you may need to pay a government tax on the purchase price. The tax you pay and the rules that apply depend on where in the UK the property is located:

• England & Northern Ireland — Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT), administered by HMRC
• Wales — Land Transaction Tax (LTT), administered by the Welsh Revenue Authority

The amount you pay depends on:

• The property price
• Whether you are a first-time buyer
• Whether the property will be your main residence

First-time buyers may benefit from relief under the relevant scheme for their nation, which can reduce or remove the amount payable depending on the purchase price and current thresholds.

Land Registry Fees

Once your purchase completes, your solicitor will register your ownership with HM Land Registry. This is a compulsory government fee that applies to all property purchases in England and Wales, with the amount varying depending on the purchase price of the property. At PLS Solicitors, we will always include this in your breakdown of costs upfront, so there are no surprises along the way.

What Do Conveyancing Fees Include? 

Conveyancing fees cover the legal work involved in transferring ownership of a property. 

This includes: 

• Reviewing contracts  
• Carrying out legal checks  
• Managing exchange and completion  
• Registering ownership with the Land Registry  

Your solicitor will also carry out property searches, including: 

• Local Authority Searches  
• Environmental Searches  
• Water & Drainage Searches  

These searches can reveal issues such as flood risks, planning matters or nearby developments. This provides useful insight into the property and the surrounding area, supporting informed decision-making when stepping onto the property ladder. 

Surveys 

Surveys are separate from conveyancing but are an important part of the buying process. 

A survey helps identify potential issues with the property, such as: 

• Damp  
• Structural movement  
• Roof defects  

Many buyers choose to have a survey carried out for added peace of mind as they progress on their journey onto the housing ladder. 

Additional Costs to Plan For 

Alongside your deposit, there are several other expenses to consider, including: 

• Mortgage arrangement or broker fees  
• Buildings insurance  
• Removal costs  
• Leasehold charges, such as service fees or ground rent  

If you are receiving financial help from family members, your solicitor may also need to carry out additional source of funds and ID checks for gifted deposits. 

Moving Forward with Confidence  

Understanding the full range of costs involved in buying a home helps first-time buyers plan with confidence and take each step towards the property ladder with greater clarity.  

At PLS Solicitors, we help first-time buyers navigate the conveyancing process with clear communication and transparent pricing, helping you move forward with confidence.  

The post The Real Cost of Getting Onto the Property Ladder  appeared first on PLS Solicitors.