Back

How Long Does it Take to Sell a House?

Dec 19, 2024
For sale sign
Selling a house is an exciting milestone, whether you want to upsize to accommodate your growing family or need a change of scenery. But how long does it take, and what are the steps? Our guide covers everything you need to know about selling your property, including tips on speeding up the process. 

Selling a house in the UK

Selling a house in the UK typically takes 25 weeks from the moment it’s listed to completion. The most crucial period is the first couple of weeks after your property has been advertised. This is when it’s most likely to go under offer. However, the process may take between 17 and 34 weeks, depending on several factors. 
 

Stages of the selling process

 Selling stage  Time
 Listing the property  1-3 days
 Receiving an offer  5-14 weeks
 Conveyancing and mortgage application  12-16 weeks
 Exchange to completion  1-28 days
 
 

1.Listing the property

Once you’ve agreed a fee with your estate agent, they will:
 
Include the property’s Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
Visit the property to take photos
 

2. Receiving an offer

The timeline for this stage depends on how the property market is moving where you live. 
 
A ‘hot’ market means houses are selling fast, and you may receive an offer within 35 days. A ‘cold’ market means not many houses are selling because there aren’t enough buyers.
 

3. Conveyancing and mortgage application

Conveyancing begins when you accept your offer and takes up most of the buying and selling process. 
 
The buyer’s solicitor will arrange the local searches, including environmental, water and drainage, and Land Registry. Meanwhile, you’ll need to have a solicitor to answer all queries.
 
Learn how the conveyancing process works in our guide.

 

4. Exchange to completion 

Exchanging contracts means that the sale is now legally binding. Your buyer becomes the legal owner of your property, and their name is registered with the Land Registry. 
 

How long does it take to sell a house with no chain?

Selling a house with no chain typically takes around 12 weeks. A chain-free transaction occurs when the buyer has nothing to sell, and the property they want to buy is already vacant. 
 

What could delay a house sale?

Some factors that may slow down your house sale include:
 
A broken chain – If your buyer pulls out, contact your solicitor or conveyancer as soon as possible. They’ll help you find another buyer.
Delays with the solicitor or conveyancer – To avoid delays, ensure that you keep an open line of communication with your solicitor or conveyancer.
Delays with the local searches – Local searches should take two to three weeks.
Issues with the survey – If the survey reveals issues, it may delay your house sale until these are fixed.
Delays with arranging the mortgage – The buyer may already have a Mortgage in Principle, but this lasts six months, so it may run out before they start the application process.
 

Tips for selling your house quickly

Below, we’ve gathered some tips to help you sell your house quickly.
 

Choose your professionals wisely

When you start looking for your solicitor or conveyancer, ensure you research how they work and their customers’ feedback. They’re vital in making the selling process trouble-free. 
 

Be responsive and communicative

Your solicitor or conveyancer will send you a lot of paperwork to review. Read it carefully, be ready to sign it, and return it as soon as possible. Stay in contact with them and ask questions so you know exactly what stage everything is at. 
 

Be realistic about timelines

Selling a house takes time, so try and set realistic timelines. Set a deadline for exchanging contracts so everyone knows what to expect.

Ready to sell your current home and find a new one? Explore our energy-efficient properties across the UK, including 2, 3, 4 and 5 bedroom homes. Our range of offers could help you move, including Part Exchange, Parent Power and Deposit Boost.  
 
Call our Sales Advisers today to get started.