The average time it takes to move house is between 12 weeks and 6 months. This depends on a variety of factors that can affect every buyer differently.
The process starts with carrying out property research and obtaining a mortgage. This makes up the bulk of the entire moving timeline. Following this, it’s important to compare conveyancers who can professionally aid with any legal issues.
In this guide, Compare My Move takes you through the buying and moving process. This means that you can be as prepared as possible for your move.
1. Instructing a Conveyancer
(one to two weeks)
Finding a conveyancer can take between one and two weeks from the point the sale is agreed upon. You’ll need to compare and find a conveyancer to undertake the conveyancing process.
Compare My Move can match you with up to 6 conveyancers who can guide you through the legal aspects of the property transaction. Fill in our conveyancing comparison form to compare quotes and save up to 70% on your solicitor fees.
Our partners have passed a strict verification process. This includes being regulated by one of the following regulatory bodies:
Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA)
Council for Licensed Conveyancers (CLC)
Law Society of Scotland (LSS)
Law Society of Northern Ireland (LSNI)
Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (CILEX)
2. Conducting a Property Survey
(two to three weeks)
Once your offer has been accepted, you can book your property survey. There are several types of Home Surveys available, depending on the age and type of property. They are as follows:
RICS Level 1 Home Survey (previously known as a Condition Report)
RICS Level 2 Home Survey (previously known as a HomeBuyers Report)
RICS Level 3 Home Survey (previously known as a Building Survey)
Snagging Surveys (for new builds)
For existing properties, the Level 2 and Level 3 Home Surveys are the most popular options. A Level 2 Survey is an intermediate survey and is ideal for newer properties and buildings with standard construction. A Level 3 Survey is best for older properties and is highly detailed. However, they are more expensive. Snagging Surveys are designed specifically for new builds.
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.
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3. Navigating the Conveyancing Process
(eight to 12 weeks)
The conveyancing process covers the legal aspects of the transaction. This includes conveyancing searches and negotiations between both parties. The searches will determine any external issues that may affect the property.
Delays between parties can occur, especially when buying with a chain. This means that the sale is dependent on other sales completing beforehand. Also, errors in documents or incorrectly submitted papers can cause lags in the process.
4. Exchange and Completion
(one month)
The exchange of contracts will happen only once negotiations are complete. At this point, the sale becomes legally binding. This means no party can withdraw from the sale without facing legal implications.
Completion day takes place between seven and 28 days after the exchange of contracts. Completing the sale means that the transfer of ownership is legally binding.
5. Moving Day
It takes between one and two days to move house on average. You will usually move in on the day of completion unless your contract states 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.
It's useful to have a moving house checklist to keep track of everything that needs to be arranged.
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Common Causes of Delays and How to Avoid Them
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
Tips for Speeding Up the Moving Process
While there are no shortcuts, it is possible to have a smooth conveyancing process. Being prepared will minimise the risk of any delays. Here are some ways to have a streamlined process:
Staying on top of your paperwork
Securing finances in advance
Preparing mortgage documentation
Maintaining regular communication with all parties
Being as flexible as possible to act promptly
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Key Takeaways
Moving house takes between 12 weeks and 6 months. This is mainly due to the research at the beginning and the legal process in the middle.
The total timeline depends on the buyer and seller’s circumstances. For example, a first-time buyer is likely to have a quicker move since they are buying with no chain. On the other hand, those looking to purchase a leasehold property or are part of a property chain may encounter a lengthier process.
Understanding the moving timeline ensures you are as prepared as possible. This allows you to minimise the chance of delays.
Read more on the buying process in How Long Does Buying a House Take?
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to move if there’s no chain?
Moving takes up to 6 months with no chain, with the conveyancing process taking approximately 4 weeks.
What’s the biggest delay in the moving process?
Issues with paperwork are among the biggest delays as this can cause a huge backtrack. If there are any errors in the documents, this can lead to a lag in communication and halt the process.
Can I move house without a conveyancer?
If you are buying a house with a mortgage, you will need to hire a conveyancer. This is because mortgage lenders will only work with qualified legal professionals. If you are buying without a mortgage, hiring a conveyancer is not a legal requirement. However, it is highly recommended, especially if you do not have adequate legal experience.
How can I prepare financially for a house move?
Make sure you have your deposit funds ready as well as money set aside for other fees including conveyancing and surveying costs.
