It is said that moving to a new home is one of the most stressful things you can do. The legal processes involved in buying a house can feel like a long, slow exercise, especially when you are eager to avoid the heartbreak of being gazumped, but is there anything you can do to speed up the conveyancing process?
How long does conveyancing usually take?
Conveyancing begins as soon as an offer on a property is accepted. According to the Homeowners Alliance, the total time for the process, on average, is 12 to 16 weeks. Other estimates say 8 to 12 weeks. It is important to recognise that different factors and circumstances impact the speed of conveyancing, many of which are totally beyond your control.
Can anything be done to make it quicker?
There are some simple steps you can take to try to ensure things move as quickly as possible on your part:
1. Speak directly to your conveyancer
Speak directly to your potential conveyancer before starting the process. Ask how long they envisage things could take, check whether they have any holidays planned that could affect timescales, and establish how they will communicate with you. If you have a deadline for moving that you want to meet, ask your solicitor at the start whether they think this will be possible.
For people looking for conveyancing London remains a hotspot. It is always a good idea to look around for recommendations for conveyancing London or otherwise and build a good working relationship with your conveyancer.
2. Sort your mortgage as early as possible
Arranging a mortgage is a big part of the conveyancing process and can take several weeks. Start conversations with your mortgage provider as early as you can and try to get a lender’s agreement in principle.
3. Be available
Make sure you respond as quickly as possible to any questions posed by your conveyancer. Tackle any forms and documents you are sent as soon as you can.
4. Ask for approximate timings
Ask your solicitor how long they expect searches to take and follow this up if the guideline has passed.
Being clued up on the conveyancing process will help you to understand exactly what is involved and how long things generally take. Delays may be caused by factors outside your control, so make sure you have realistic expectations.