How Long Does the Conveyancing Process Take?

The conveyancing process is a crucial step in any property transaction, whether you’re buying or selling residential or commercial property.

One of the most common questions buyers and sellers ask is, "How long does conveyancing take?" The answer depends on several factors, including whether the property is residential or commercial.

In this blog, we’ll explore typical timeframes for both residential and commercial conveyancing, as well as some of the factors that can speed up or slow down the process.

What is Commercial Conveyancing?

What is Residential Conveyancing?

What is a Transfer of Equity?

What is the difference between Leasehold vs Freehold?

For residential properties, the conveyancing process generally takes between 8 to 12 weeks from the moment an offer is accepted to the completion of the sale.

However, this is just an average, and the timeline can vary based on factors such as the complexity of the transaction, the property chain, and how quickly the parties involved can respond to requests and queries.

Typical Stages in Residential Conveyancing

Initial Instruction (1-2 weeks): Once an offer is accepted, the buyer will instruct a conveyancer or solicitor. During this time, they will request the contract pack from the seller’s solicitor and begin the initial searches.

Searches and Enquiries (2-4 weeks): The conveyancer conducts various searches (such as local authority and environmental searches) and raises any enquiries with the seller's solicitor.

Mortgage Offer and Contracts (3-6 weeks): If the buyer is using a mortgage, this process can take a little longer as the mortgage provider needs to issue a formal offer. Once all searches and enquiries are completed, contracts can be exchanged.

Exchange and Completion (1-2 weeks): After contracts are exchanged, a completion date is set, which typically occurs within a couple of weeks, though this can be shorter if both parties are ready.

Factors That Can Slow Down Residential Conveyancing

Delays in obtaining search results or mortgage offers.
A long property chain, where multiple transactions are dependent on one another.
Issues with the property, such as disputes over boundaries or outstanding planning permissions.

Can a property buyer and seller use the same solicitor?

How can I transfer personal property to a business?

What is an extension of tenancy agreement?

How to Purchase a Commercial Property

How Long Does Commercial Conveyancing Take?

Commercial conveyancing can take longer than residential, often ranging from 12 to 16 weeks or even longer, depending on the complexity of the transaction.

This is because commercial property deals tend to involve more detailed contracts, longer negotiations, and additional due diligence, especially for leases and development properties.

Typical Stages in Commercial Conveyancing

Initial Negotiations and Heads of Terms (2-4 weeks): Before the formal conveyancing process begins, there are often detailed negotiations over the Heads of Terms, which outline the basic agreement between the buyer and seller.

Due Diligence and Searches (4-8 weeks): Commercial conveyancers conduct more extensive due diligence, which includes reviewing planning permissions, environmental factors, and existing leases. This phase can take several weeks, especially if issues are uncovered.

Contract Negotiation (4-6 weeks): Contracts for commercial properties are typically more complex than those for residential properties. They may involve detailed lease agreements, rent reviews, and covenants, which can take longer to finalise.

Exchange and Completion (2-4 weeks): Once due diligence is complete and both parties are satisfied with the terms, contracts are exchanged, and a completion date is agreed upon. Completion can take a few weeks depending on the complexity of the deal and the logistics involved.

Factors That Can Slow Down Commercial Conveyancing

More complex legal documents, such as leases, title deeds, or restrictive covenants.
Complicated negotiations over lease terms or other contractual obligations.
Regulatory and environmental concerns that require thorough investigation.

What Can Speed Up the Conveyancing Process?

While some delays are unavoidable, there are several ways to potentially speed up the conveyancing process, whether residential or commercial:

Be prepared: Make sure all necessary documents are ready early in the process, including ID checks and proof of funds.

Prompt communication: Respond quickly to any requests from your conveyancer or solicitor and encourage the other party to do the same.

Instruct a solicitor early: Engage a solicitor or conveyancer as soon as you start the buying or selling process, even before an offer is accepted.

Choose an experienced conveyancer: An experienced solicitor or conveyancer can anticipate potential problems and address them before they become major delays.

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