Wales is leading the UK’s conveyancing growth, creating significant opportunities for estate agents, mortgage brokers and their conveyancing partners. Transaction volumes rose by 18% year on year between July 2025 and June 2026. This was the strongest regional increase in the UK, with 214,038 remortgage and dealings transactions recorded. Activity peaked at 21,078 transactions in March 2026, while Welsh firms continued to play a prominent role in the market; Harding Evans ranked fifth in Wales by monthly volume.
A growing market – and rising client expectations
Much of this momentum is being driven by remortgage activity as fixed-rate deals mature and borrowing costs ease. For brokers, this creates opportunities to support refinancing and equity-release clients and build repeat business. However, transactions still take an average of 123 days to complete, making early preparation, prompt document submission and regular communication essential.
Agents and brokers can help keep pipelines moving by working with conveyancers that combine local knowledge with digital onboarding, electronic signatures and regular case updates. Clear expectations at the outset and a joined-up approach between all professionals can reduce avoidable delays and improve the client experience.
Regulatory changes
- Anti-money laundering: Amendments effective from 30 June 2026 require firms to update thresholds, risk assessments, policies and training. The planned move to a single FCA supervisor is also expected to bring more centralised oversight and robust identity and source-of-funds checks.
- TA6 property information: The streamlined sixth edition became mandatory for CQS firms on 30 March 2026, alongside a separate Material Information form at the pre-marketing stage. Using the correct forms from the outset should reduce queries and delays.
- SDLT registration: From 18 May 2026, conveyancers submitting SDLT returns are classed as tax advisers and must register with HMRC.
- Building safety: Leasehold transactions involving buildings over 11 metres may require additional checks relating to safety charges, gateway compliance and EWS1 documentation, increasing complexity and timescales.
Practical steps for agents and brokers
- Check that conveyancing partners are up to speed with the latest AML, TA6 and SDLT requirements.
- Encourage sellers to complete the current property and material information forms as early as possible. Instructing a conveyancer when they market their property can greatly reduce delays in the transaction – you can read more on that, here.
- Explain that enhanced identity, source-of-funds and leasehold checks may add time to a transaction. Set the expectations – transactions are taking on average 123 days to complete.
- Choose conveyancers with strong lender-panel relationships, local experience and reliable digital communication.
Wales’s buoyant market offers real potential, but growth must be matched by efficient service and careful compliance. Estate agents and mortgage brokers who prepare clients early and collaborate with capable conveyancers will be best placed to keep transactions moving and deliver a smoother experience.
