The Conveyancing Review Working Group brings together representatives from across the legal, property and academic sectors to consider issues affecting the home buying and selling process, with the aim of making recommendations for a quicker and more efficient system that benefits both buyers and sellers

The group, which is due to report by late 2027, will consider evidence from across the sector and challenges within the current system that can contribute to uncertainty and rising costs for buyers and sellers as it develops recommendations for potential improvements to the conveyancing process.

Kirsten Oswald, community safety minister said: “A well-functioning conveyancing system is a vital part of Scotland’s civil law framework, and one that touches the lives of thousands of people every year.

“I know the late conclusion of missives and increasingly long property chains can cause real frustration for people across Scotland, and I’m pleased that this new working group is bringing together such a wealth of legal, property and academic expertise to address these issues head-on.

“I’d like to welcome Jill Andrew and Professor Andrew Steven as joint chairs, along with all the members of the group, and I look forward to seeing their recommendations for a conveyancing system that works better for everyone involved.”