If Only Buying a Property Was as Simple as Monopoly: A Chat with Alexander JLO Property Partner Matt Johnson

Buying a property can feel like a monumental task, but have you ever wondered why it can’t be as straightforward as a game of Monopoly? After all, in Monopoly, you simply roll the dice, land on a property, and just like that, it’s yours! You slap down some paper money, claim your space, and maybe even build a hotel—all without the complexities of surveys, conveyancing, or endless paperwork. In this blog, we will dig into the world of property purchases, demystify the conveyancing process, and add a sprinkle of humor to the mix as we chat with Alexander JLO Property Partner Matt Johnson.

The Monopoly Dream vs. Real Life

Monopoly has a magical charm about it. You can buy Park Lane, develop it, and become the tycoon of your dreams—all without the headache of inspections or mortgage applications. But reality hits differently, doesn’t it? In the real world, buying a house means navigating a sea of regulations, legalities, and responsibilities that would make any seasoned game player shudder.

When I approached Matt Johnson, this was the first question on my mind: “What’s the biggest difference between buying a property in Monopoly and in real life?”

Matt chuckled and responded, “Well, for starters, real-life properties don’t come with a ‘Get Out of Jail Free’ card! You have to deal with not only the price but also factors like location, condition, and what’s lurking in the paperwork.”

The Conveyancing Conundrum

So, what exactly is conveyancing? To put it simply, conveyancing is the legal process of transferring property ownership from one person to another. But let’s face it—the term alone doesn’t exactly inspire excitement. In fact, it sounds more like a blend of legal jargon and a boring textbook than something that could lead to your dream home.

“Conveyancing involves several steps. We check the title, gather all the necessary documents, and facilitate communication between buyers and sellers,” explained Matt, who makes this complicated process seem far more approachable than it initially sounds.

But here’s where the adventure truly begins, and let’s explore this process with a sense of light humor in mind.

The Title Deed Drama

In Monopoly, you snag a property and receive a neatly printed deed. Easy peasy. In the real world, however, you encounter the title deed—an essential document that proves ownership but also has the potential to plunge you into deep waters of legal complications.

“Imagine finding out your dream house has restrictive covenants,” Matt warned. “You might not be able to build a treehouse for the kids, let alone add that garden shed you’ve been dreaming of.”

So, while you might envision a picturesque home with a swing set, you’ll need to do your homework first to ensure that swing set fits within the rules of the land!

Surveys: A Necessary Evil

Next comes the survey—another aspect of the property purchasing process that could make even the most fearless Monopoly player hesitant. When you buy a property, a survey digs deep into its condition, identifying hidden issues like damp walls, creaky floors, or a dodgy roof.

“Surveys can be your best friend,” Matt said. “They help you avoid unexpected surprises after you’ve moved in. The paper trail might seem dull, but they reveal the property’s true character!”

Picture rolling the dice and landing on a property that looks perfectly fine, only to discover later that it has more issues than you bargained for. A careful survey can ensure that you’re not stepping into a financial minefield!

Paperwork, Paperwork, and More Paperwork

If you think Monopoly has a lot of paperwork, wait until you experience the avalanche that accompanies real estate transactions. Countless forms, disclosures, and agreements flood the process, and you may feel like you need a small army to wade through it all.

“Let’s be real,” Matt said with a grin, “when playing Monopoly, you can just scribble down whatever you want. In the real world, signatures and legal obligations are the name of the game. You can’t just declare yourself King of the Castle and expect everyone to follow!”

He recommended taking time to review all documents carefully. Paying attention to even the smallest details can make a world of difference.

The Joy of Completion

Finally, let’s talk about completion—the moment when everything you’ve worked towards comes together like a sweet victory in Monopoly. After navigating the twists and turns of conveyancing, it’s time to sign on the dotted line and receive the keys to your new abode.

Matt described completion as “a mix of excitement and trepidation.” Many emotions bubble to the surface as the opportunities that lie ahead become tangible. It’s a day for celebration, filled with the promise of new beginnings.

“Once you get those keys in your hand, it’s like winning the game,” he said enthusiastically. “That’s when you can truly shout, ‘I’m home!’”

Conclusion

While purchasing property may not always be as straightforward as playing a game of Monopoly, understanding the conveyancing process helps you navigate the waters with confidence. Engaging with a property partner like Matt Johnson can provide the right guidance during this adventure, making the legalities of buying a home closer to an enjoyable experience.

From title deeds to surveys and endless paperwork, knowing what to expect can relieve some of the stress of the process. In the end, while we may not have a ‘Get Out of Jail Free’ card for real property transactions, we do have the expertise of professionals to help you along the way.

So, the next time you find yourself dreaming of a new home, remember the peculiarities of the laws that govern it. With knowledge and the right support, you can navigate the world of conveyancing and claim your dream property—one roll of the dice at a time!

If you are looking for a first rate conveyancing service why not give one of Alexander JLO’s specialist property lawyers a call on 020 7537 7000, click on the get a quote button or email quote@london-law.co.uk for a free, no-obligation quotation? Come and see what we can do for you.

This blog was prepared with Alexander JLO’s property partner Matt Johnson on 29th January 2026 and is correct at the date of publication. Matt has many years of experience of dealing with property work and specialises in new build and shared ownership properties.  His profile on the independent Review Solicitor website and be found here