Nearly half of conveyancers say that the stability of the housing market is a real issue for them.

Findings from a new survey, by conveyancing search provider SearchFlow, also suggest that conveyancers believe that the market is levelling out.

Only 16% of firms experienced growth of over 25% in the last quarter, compared with 41% in the previous quarter.

Despite the slowdown in the rate of growth and concerns over the housing market – expressed by 45% – nearly one third of conveyancers said they are expecting to increase headcount.

The survey also showed that just over half of conveyancers (53%) are unaware of changes in the shape of new forms to be introduced next April. These were to have been introduced in November but have been delayed. The new forms will affect conveyancers and local authorities, and how they work.

Nearly 100 conveyancers in England and Wales were asked for their opinions.