Get to know...

Kate Atkinson, Partner and Head of the Residential Conveyancing Department at Phillips Law Solicitors, an SRA-regulated law firm. She advises clients across Basingstoke and Farnborough, Hampshire and also throughout England and Wales on all aspects of residential property transactions.

With over 18 years of specialist conveyancing experience, Kate has successfully guided thousands of clients through property sales, purchases, remortgages and transfers of equity. Prior to joining Phillips Law, she was a Director and Head of Legal at a specialist residential conveyancing firm, leading legal teams and overseeing all residential property conveyancing transactions.

Kate is known for delivering practical, straightforward advice and for making complex property transactions as smooth and stress-free as possible. She understands that buying or selling a home is often one the most important financial decision a person will make and is committed to ensuring clients feel informed and supported throughout the process.

Specialist Expertise

Kate advises on all aspects of residential property law, including:

  • Residential property sales
  • Residential property purchases
  • First-time buyer transactions
  • Leasehold sales and purchases
  • Remortgages
  • Transfers of equity
  • Buy-to-let and investment property transactions
  • New-build property purchases
  • Shared ownership transactions
  • Property ownership and title issues

Whether acting for first-time buyers, homeowners, landlords or property investors, Kate provides clear, commercially focused advice tailored to each client’s individual circumstances.

Approach

Kate combines extensive conveyancing experience with a proactive and client-focused approach. She believes clear communication and early identification of potential issues are key to achieving successful outcomes and reducing delays.

Clients value her ability to explain legal matters in plain English, manage transactions efficiently and keep them informed at every stage of the process. Her focus is always on delivering a seamless experience while protecting her clients’ interests throughout the transaction.

As Head of Residential Conveyancing, Kate also leads the continued development of the department, ensuring the team delivers the highest standards of client care, technical excellence and service efficiency.

Why Choose Kate?

Clients choose Kate because of her:

  • Over 18 years of residential conveyancing experience
  • Senior leadership experience within specialist conveyancing firms
  • Practical and commercially focused advice
  • Proactive and responsive communication
  • Strong technical knowledge of residential property law
  • Commitment to client service and transparency
  • Track record of delivering efficient and successful transactions

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a residential conveyancing solicitor do?

A conveyancing solicitor manages the legal aspects of buying, selling, remortgaging or transferring property ownership. This includes reviewing legal title, conducting property searches, liaising with mortgage lenders, drafting contracts and completing the transaction.

Can you help first-time buyers?

Yes. Kate regularly advises first-time buyers and provides clear guidance throughout the purchasing process, helping clients understand each stage and any legal issues that may arise.

What is a transfer of equity?

A transfer of equity involves changing the legal ownership of a property by adding or removing an owner. This commonly arises following marriage, separation, divorce, inheritance planning or family arrangements.

Do you deal with leasehold properties?

Yes. Kate has extensive experience handling leasehold sales and purchases, including advising on lease terms, service charges, ground rent provisions and management company arrangements.

How long does the conveyancing process take?

Every transaction is different and timescales can vary depending on factors such as property chains, mortgage requirements and title issues. Kate works proactively with all parties involved to help transactions progress as efficiently as possible.

Can Phillips Law act for my mortgage lender?

In many cases Phillips Law can act for both the buyer and their mortgage lender, helping streamline the conveyancing process and reduce delays.

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