Before You Go to Market

The preparation stage is the most important — and the most commonly skipped. Sellers who gather their documents, complete their property information forms, and identify potential issues before marketing begins are significantly better placed to move quickly once an offer is accepted. This stage can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks depending on how much preparation is needed.

• Obtain title register and title plan from HM Land Registry
• Gather building regulations certificates, planning permissions, and guarantees
• Commission an EPC if yours has expired or you don't have one
• For leasehold properties: locate your lease and contact your managing agent
• Instruct a solicitor or conveyancer — ideally before accepting an offer

Marketing and Offer Acceptance (Weeks 1–4)

Once your property is listed, the marketing period varies widely depending on the market and your property. When an offer is accepted, the formal conveyancing process begins. At this point, your solicitor will send out a draft contract pack to the buyer's solicitor — which is why having your documents ready in advance matters.

Conveyancing (Weeks 4–16)

The conveyancing process involves searches, enquiries, and the preparation of contracts. This is typically the longest stage of the transaction. Key milestones include:

• Draft contract pack sent to buyer's solicitor (Week 4–5)
• Searches ordered by buyer's solicitor (Week 4–6)
• Property information forms completed and submitted (Week 4–6)
• Solicitor enquiries raised and answered (Week 6–12)
• Mortgage offer issued to buyer (Week 6–10)
• Contract approved and exchange date agreed (Week 10–16)

Exchange of Contracts

Exchange of contracts is the point at which the sale becomes legally binding. Both parties sign identical contracts, which are then exchanged between solicitors. A completion date is agreed at exchange — typically 1–4 weeks after exchange, though this can vary. Once contracts are exchanged, neither party can withdraw without financial penalty.

Completion

Completion is the day the property legally changes hands. The buyer's solicitor transfers the purchase funds to your solicitor, your solicitor redeems any mortgage, and the keys are handed over. You'll need to have vacated the property by the agreed completion time — typically midday, though this varies.

How Long Does It Take?

The average time from offer acceptance to completion in England and Wales is currently around 20–24 weeks, though this varies significantly. Well-prepared sellers with documentation in order and no chain complications can complete in 10–14 weeks. Leasehold transactions, longer chains, and missing documentation all extend timelines. Preparation before marketing begins is the single most effective way to reduce your transaction time.