When purchasing a property it is quite normal for your solicitor to request an upfront payment at the beginning of the conveyancing process in order to cover the fees for any searches that may be carried out in relation to the property on your behalf.

Shortly before completion the balance of the solicitors fees are payable along with the amount you have agreed to pay for the property. If you have taken out a mortgage for more than 90% of the purchase price, then you may be required to pay the balance prior to exchange of contracts.

If you are selling a property you do not need to pay anything in advance, as any costs will be deducted from the sale proceeds on completion by your solicitor before the remaining balance is sent to you.