Before exchange, which task is typically performed by the seller's solicitor?

• A. Check draft contract and proof of title
• B. Pre completion searches
• C. Draft lease variations
• D. Draft transfer deed and send to sellers for approval

Answer: (D)

The key task being tested is the preparation of the transfer of legal ownership. Before exchange, the seller’s solicitor focuses on drafting the transfer deed (the document that actually passes title from seller to buyer) and getting it ready for approval and signing. This ensures there is a valid instrument in place that can be executed at completion and then sent to the Land Registry to effect the transfer. The transfer deed needs to reflect the terms in the contract and the current title, so it’s standard for the seller’s solicitor to prepare it and circulate it for approval to the buyer’s side (and for the seller to sign).

Other pre-exchange tasks are typically handled by the buyer’s solicitor or arise only in specific situations: pre-completion searches are conducted by the buyer’s solicitor; checking the draft contract and proof of title is usually the buyer’s solicitor’s job to verify the buyer’s position; draft lease variations would only be relevant if the property has a lease and changes are required. Hence, drafting and circulating the transfer deed is the most characteristic pre-exchange duty for the seller’s solicitor.