New research indicates that almost three-quarters of recent home movers in Great Britain faced delays, with the average property transaction now spanning 216 days from initial listing to completion. This includes an average of 62 days to secure a buyer and a further 154 days from sale agreed to completion, according to figures cited in the latest Voice of the Agent report.
The post-sale process has lengthened by 36 days since 2019, representing a 31% increase. Research from We Are Unchained found that 72% of recent movers experienced a delay. Among those who identified a responsible party, 50% attributed the delay to their conveyancer or solicitor, while 40% blamed the buyer or seller. Estate agents were cited by just 5% of delayed movers.
Regional differences in delays were significant, with approximately 80% of London movers reporting setbacks. This figure was 79% in the East Midlands and 78% in Wales and the North West. In contrast, 43% of movers in Scotland experienced delays.
Property professionals remain divided on how to improve transaction speeds. Estate agents prioritised faster communication and proactive updates (33%), while conveyancers focused on a better understanding of each profession’s role (23%) and clearer client expectations (21%). Mortgage advisers and brokers equally valued faster communication and agreed service standards (22% each).