There’s no set timeframe for how long the conveyancing process takes. For an average straightforward sale or purchase it will be around three months.
There are some factors that can delay this timescale, examples of which are:
- Issues with your mortgage lender.
- Being part of a chain.
- Buying a new build.
- Using a Help To Buy.
- Buying or selling a property with shared ownership.
Usually, the smaller the chain the less likely you are to run into problems which will cause delays. The longer the chain, the longer the process could take. It’s not always in your control when there is a delay, but it’s important that you respond to everything quickly to make things run as quickly and smoothly as possible. It’s also important to discuss realistic timescales which your conveyancer so that you are prepared in advance.
Once an offer has been accepted on a property, if you need a mortgage you will need to contact your lender and make a full mortgage application. You will then receive a mortgage offer from your lender. At this stage it may only take around four to six weeks until completion. Once the mortgage offer is accepted, you'll need to instruct your conveyancer and have a survey carried out on the property.
If you’re buying a property, you should instruct your solicitor as soon as possible so that they can obtain the searches for you.
Your solicitor will always discuss proposed move dates as soon as they are able to so that a deadline can be agreed to work towards.
