How Long Does it Take to Move House?

Written by Martha Lott Reviewed by Gareth Brooks

22nd Nov 2019 (Last updated on 25th Apr 2023) 5 minute read

1. Finding the Right Property

Finding the right property takes between 10 to 12 weeks on average. Start by setting yourself a budget and sticking to it when researching properties. Most people begin their search by using property portals such as Rightmove and Zoopla. However, those interested in local moving can explore the area and view the properties for sale in person.

Those needing a mortgage should obtain a mortgage agreement in principle. This will give you an idea of how much you can borrow. Decide where you'd like to live and look at homes in the area. Once you’ve decided on a property, start negotiating to make a formal offer.

2. Getting a Mortgage

Getting mortgage approval takes between 18 and 40 days on average. You should have chosen a mortgage provider by now to begin the process.

You will need to formally apply for the mortgage on the property in order for the mortgage offer to be approved. Make sure you have important documentation such as payslips and bank statements. This will prevent any delays and give you a better chance of receiving mortgage approval.

You will then have a limited amount of time for which the mortgage offer is valid to complete the purchase. This is usually 3-6 months depending on your lender.

3. Find a Conveyancer

Finding a conveyancer can take between 8 and 12 weeks from the point the sale is agreed upon. It is one of the most important parts of the moving process.

You’ll need to compare and find a conveyancer to undertake the solicitor process for buying. Again, do your research and compare conveyancers to ensure they are professional and dependable. At Compare My Move, our network of partners is verified and regulated by SRA, CLC, LSS, LSNI, or CILEx.

Take your time to find a verified licensed conveyancer or conveyancing solicitor and they will take care of the buying process for you. The conveyancing process will take longer if you're in a chain than if you're not in a chain. The conveyancing process starts once an offer has been agreed on and ends on completion day.

4. Property Survey

It takes between 2 and 3 weeks for a house survey to be carried out and to receive the results. Once the conveyancing process has begun, you can then book your property survey.

There are different types of surveys you can choose from. A RICS Level 2 HomeBuyer Survey is ideal for properties under 50 years old. It is the cheaper option, but not as thorough or detailed. A RICS Level 3 Building Survey is best for older properties and is highly detailed. However, Building Surveys are more expensive.

It usually takes a couple of weeks for the survey report to be produced and sent to you. When you have received your survey results, send them to your conveyancer so they can check over them.

5. Exchanging Contracts

The exchange of contracts usually happens during week 8 of the process. The timeframe can vary greatly depending upon a number of factors. These include:

• Property type
• Length of the property chain
• Negative survey results
• Negative property search results
• Legal issues that need resolving

The exchange of contracts will happen only once all conveyancers in the chain are ready and hold a signed contract. After the exchange of contracts has been achieved, then a completion date will be set. The buyer's solicitor will then carry out pre-completion searches.

Read more on What Happens Between Exchange and Completion

6. Completing the Sale

Completion day tends to take place between 7 and 28 days after the exchange of contracts. Completing the sale means that the transfer of ownership is legally binding.

On completion day, your conveyancer will transfer the final funds to the seller. Once this is done, the property is yours. Having a Completion Day Checklist in place can prevent delays and ensure you are organised.

7. Moving Day

It takes between 1 and 2 days to move house on average. You will usually move in on the day of completion unless your circumstances allow for you to move in at a later date. The completion day will have been agreed on beforehand, so you can book your removal company in advance. The seller must move out on this day, to allow the buyer to move in.

You’ll need to factor in packing your belongings, which can be time-consuming. Ideally, it should be done a few days before the completion date, making sure you leave out the essential items you’ll need on the day. Unpacking and setting everything up in your new house can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks to a few years.

Factors that Could Delay the Process

Delays are a common occurrence during the buying process. There are a variety of factors that can contribute to delays. Here are a few to consider:

• Lack of preparation
• The Legal Team
• Survey Report
• Property Chain
• Mortgage approval delay
• Delay in conveyancing search results
• Gazumping

Next Steps of Buying a House

This article is part of our house buying guide. We work hard to inform you of the latest moving house advice and news through our series of articles.

In our next article, we look at what you should ask when purchasing a property. To read more see: Questions to Ask When Buying a House.