Best Conveyancing Lawyers in Hong Kong

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Lim & Lok
Central, Hong Kong

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Chinese
English
Lin Luo Law Firm has always been committed to providing high-quality and efficient legal advice and services to all walks of life, and treats every client with a professional, timely and responsible attitude.The head office in Hong Kong has been established for 10 years, and its lawyers and teams...
Kevin Ng & Co., Solicitors
Central, Hong Kong

Founded in 1999
50 people in their team
Chinese
English
About UsEstablished since 1999, KEVIN NG & CO., SOLICITORS ("KNC") at present comprises of six legal professionals: Mr. Kevin Ng, Senior Partner; Mrs. Cecilia Wong, Partner; Mr. Wing Lung Kwok, Consultant;  Mr. Alex Lam, Associate; and Ms. Mandy Wong, Associate.The aspiration of Kevin Ng...

Founded in 2018
50 people in their team
Chinese
English
OverviewACHIEVING SUCCESSFUL OUTCOMES TOGETHER We are a young independent law firm, but with decades of experience providing bespoke legal advice and exceptional client service to individuals, families, entrepreneurs and businesses, in Hong Kong and internationally.Our solicitors have achieved...
Axiom Law (Hong Kong)
Central, Hong Kong

Founded in 2000
5,000 people in their team
Chinese
English
A new era of alternative legal services providersAxiom is the global leader in high-caliber, diverse legal talent. With over 5,800 lawyers spanning North America, the UK, Europe, and APAC, we enable corporate legal departments to drive efficiency and growth and to adapt to a demanding new era.Asia...

Founded in 2002
50 people in their team
Chinese
English
Cheung and Choy was established by Simon Cheung and Choy Man in 2002. Since then, we have built a wealth of experience in many major aspects of the law in Hong Kong, in particular, we have considerable experience in corporate finance, such as IPO, mergers and acquisitions, rights issues, share...
Slaughter and May
Central, Hong Kong

Founded in 1974
5,000 people in their team
Chinese
English
HONG KONG OFFICEWe have a long-standing presence in Asia and opened our office in Hong Kong in 1974.We have extensive experience of a wide range of work involving Hong Kong, the People's Republic of China and Asia.We act for many of the world's leading companies who choose us because we share their...
Mayer Brown
Central, Hong Kong

Founded in 1863
200 people in their team
Chinese
English
Mayer Brown is a distinctively global law firm, uniquely positioned to advise the world’s leading companies and financial institutions on their most complex deals and disputes.With extensive reach across four continents, we are the only integrated law firm in the world with approximately 200...
Tony Kan & Co
Shatin, Hong Kong

Founded in 1984
16 people in their team
Chinese
English
About usFounded in 1984, Tony Kan & Co. is one of Hong Kong's established law firms providing a comprehensive range of professional legal services to our Clients.The Partners of our firm are well experienced in legal services, some of them had worked in senior positions in the Department of...
Charltons
Wanchai, Hong Kong

Founded in 1998
50 people in their team
Chinese
English
Hong Kong Corporate Finance Law FirmCharltons is a leading boutique Hong Kong law firm. Charltons focuses on corporate finance and provides cutting edge legal advice to Hong Kong, PRC and international clients with an emphasis on the mining sector. Charltons is a Hong Kong law firm...
Sun Lawyers LLP
Admiralty, Hong Kong

Founded in 2003
50 people in their team
Chinese
English
about usSzeto & Lee Solicitors Limited Liability Partnership (formerly known as WS Szeto & Lee Solicitors, now known as Sun Lawyers LLP) was established in 2003 and was converted into a limited legal liability partnership on June 10, 2017. It is a Hong Kong-based company. The base of the...
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About Conveyancing Law in Hong Kong

Conveyancing in Hong Kong refers to the legal process of transferring property ownership from one party to another. This includes residential and commercial real estate transactions. The conveyancing process is governed mainly by the Conveyancing and Property Ordinance, which sets out the framework for buying, selling, mortgaging, and leasing property. Conveyancing involves several complex legal steps, including contract drafting, due diligence, coordination with financial institutions, and registration at the Land Registry. Given Hong Kong's unique system, which blends elements of common law and local statutes, property transactions demand careful attention to detail.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Several common situations may require the assistance of a conveyancing lawyer in Hong Kong. These include buying or selling residential or commercial property, transferring property interests between family members, refinancing a mortgage, or resolving title disputes. A lawyer ensures that contracts are legally sound and that all statutory requirements are met. Lawyers also handle the verification of the property's legal status, clear any encumbrances, manage payment of stamp duties, and facilitate the seamless transfer and registration of ownership. Without legal representation, you may risk overlooking critical legal obligations, which could lead to disputes or financial loss.

Local Laws Overview

The legal framework for conveyancing in Hong Kong is shaped by several key statutes and practices:

  • The Conveyancing and Property Ordinance sets out the requirements for conveyancing transactions and provides the basis for transfer of property rights, creation of mortgages, and registration essentials.
  • The Land Registration Ordinance establishes a public registry for property transactions, protecting the interests of registered owners and prioritizing registered interests.
  • Stamp Duty Ordinance governs the payment of stamp duty, an essential aspect in most property transactions. This includes Buyer’s Stamp Duty, Ad Valorem Stamp Duty, and Special Stamp Duty depending on the buyer and property type.
  • The process also requires compliance with anti-money laundering rules and other regulations related to financial transparency.

Notably, property in Hong Kong is generally leasehold, granted by the government for a fixed term rather than held freehold. Ensuring a clean and marketable title, along with proper registration, is a cornerstone of secure transactions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is conveyancing?

Conveyancing is the legal process of transferring ownership of real property from one party to another. It involves preparing, verifying, and executing legal documents, ensuring payment of stamp duty, and registering the transfer at the Land Registry.

Do I need a lawyer for buying or selling property?

Yes, both buyers and sellers should engage a conveyancing lawyer to handle the legal documentation, conduct due diligence, advise on contract terms, and ensure compliance with local laws and regulations.

How long does the conveyancing process usually take?

Typically, the conveyancing process in Hong Kong takes around 8 to 12 weeks from the signing of the provisional agreement to completion, but this can vary depending on the transaction’s complexity.

What documents are involved in a conveyancing transaction?

Documents generally include the provisional sale and purchase agreement, formal agreement, assignment or deed of transfer, title deeds, mortgage documents (if applicable), and completion statements.

What is stamp duty and when is it payable?

Stamp duty is a government tax payable on the transfer of property. The amount depends on the property price, buyer’s residency status, and whether it’s a first or second property. Payment is due within 30 days of executing the agreement.

Can foreigners purchase property in Hong Kong?

Yes, there are no restrictions on foreigners buying property in Hong Kong. Foreign buyers, however, may be subject to additional stamp duties compared to local buyers.

What are common issues found during title checking?

Common issues include undischarged mortgages, encumbrances or liens, missing or defective title documents, and unauthorized building works. Lawyers conduct thorough title checks to identify and resolve such issues.

What happens if there is a dispute after completion?

If disputes arise after completion, such as hidden defects or title problems, parties may need to negotiate a settlement or seek legal action in court. Having a thorough contract and clear documentation helps minimize these risks.

How are property interests registered in Hong Kong?

Interests in property must be registered with the Land Registry to ensure legal protection. Registration establishes priority and provides public notice of ownership and any interests or encumbrances affecting the property.

Can property be transferred among family members?

Yes, property can be transferred among family members. This still requires proper conveyancing procedures, including legal documentation, payment of any applicable stamp duties, and registration at the Land Registry.

Additional Resources

If you require more information or assistance regarding conveyancing in Hong Kong, consider the following resources:

  • Land Registry - responsible for maintaining accurate property records and registration of property interests.
  • Hong Kong Law Society - offers a directory of solicitors specializing in conveyancing and property law.
  • Inland Revenue Department - provides information on stamp duties and property-related taxes.
  • Conveyancing and Property Ordinance - the primary legislative framework for conveyancing.
  • Consumer Council - advises on consumer rights in property transactions.

Next Steps

If you are considering buying, selling, or transferring property in Hong Kong, the first step is to consult a qualified conveyancing lawyer. Prepare your property documents and identify your objectives for the transaction. Your lawyer will guide you through the process, conduct due diligence, draft and review all necessary agreements, and ensure all legal requirements are satisfied. Approach reputable law firms or solicitors specializing in conveyancing for legal advice. If complications arise, your lawyer can also assist in dispute resolution or representation in court. Engaging a specialist early can save time and prevent potentially costly mistakes in your property transaction.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Hong Kong through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Conveyancing, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Hong Kong - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.