Moving home: expectation vs reality

Moving home: expectation vs reality

In this speed read we look at the time taken to complete a property sale

  • Properties continue to go under offer more quickly than pre-pandemic, but the time taken to complete a sale has risen. Conveyancing delays remain a significant issue.
  • In 2019 a survey of home movers found 55% of sales completed within 3 months. This fell to 45% in 2021. Early indications from the 2022 survey suggest that the proportion has continued to drop.
  • Managing expectations is crucial. For most buyers the process takes much longer than they expect. 86% of respondents to the 2021 survey expected to complete their move within 3 months.
  • For buyers in the market now, the 'move in for Christmas' date is fast approaching.
  • Source: Dataloft, Property Academy, 2021, based on a survey of 16,000+ home movers


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This beautifully extended three-bedroom semi-detached cottage offers the perfect blend of charm and modern living. Featuring a spacious sitting room, stylish, bright kitchen/diner, en suite master, landscaped garden with gazebo, garage, driveway, EV charging point, and no onward chain.

Autumn may not be the first season that comes to mind when people think about moving, but it can be a surprisingly strong time to sell. Buyers who are still active at this stage of the year tend to be serious about completing before Christmas or the new year. With the right preparation, your home can stand out and attract motivated buyers even as the nights draw in.

Buying a home is one of life’s biggest decisions. Whether it’s your first purchase or your fifth, the process can feel daunting, with plenty of pitfalls to avoid. From mortgages and surveys to legal paperwork and negotiations, there’s a lot to take on board. By arming yourself with the right information and working with a knowledgeable local estate agent, you’ll be better placed to make smart decisions and find the home that truly fits your needs.

Fresh market insights reveal that homes are still taking longer to sell, with many remaining unsold. This shift highlights how crucial realistic pricing is from the start. Properties priced correctly attract more interest and sell faster, avoiding price cuts and the frustration of lingering on the market.