On average, buying a home takes between 8 and 12 weeks from the day your offer is accepted to the day you move in. It can be quicker or slower depending on everyone in the chain. A first-time buyer purchasing a new build with a mortgage in principle might complete in around 6 weeks. A leasehold property that needs a lease extension can take between 3 and 6 months.
The single biggest factor is usually the chain: your sale, the seller’s onward purchase, and everyone above and below you. A move can only go as fast as the slowest link.
Stage by stage
Instruction and ID
You sign our client care letter, we verify your identity and you pay for searches. The seller’s solicitor sends the draft contract pack.
Searches
We order the local authority, drainage and environmental searches. How long the local search takes depends on the council.
Enquiries
We raise questions about anything the contract pack, searches or title leave unanswered. This is the stage that varies most, because it depends on how quickly the seller’s side replies.
Mortgage offer and report
Once your lender issues its offer and every enquiry is answered, we report to you on the property and send you the contract to sign.
Exchange and completion
Completion is often one to two weeks after exchange, but can be on the same day if everyone is ready.
What causes delays
- Waiting for the local authority search
- A leasehold management pack, which the managing agent can take weeks to supply
- Missing documents, such as building regulations sign-off for an extension
- A survey that turns up problems and leads to renegotiation
- A mortgage valuation that comes in below the price
- Anyone in the chain who has not yet found a buyer
How to speed it up
- Get your ID and proof of funds ready before you instruct us
- Have a mortgage agreement in principle in place
- Pay for searches on day one so we can order them straight away
- Reply to our questions the same day where you can
- If you are selling, instruct us as soon as you accept an offer
If you are buying or selling, you can get an instant conveyancing quote or call us on 0161 660 1505.
This article is general information about the law in England and Wales at the date above. It is not legal advice on your situation. Please contact us before acting on it.
