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The time it takes to complete conveyancing in Teesside, North Yorkshire and surrounding areas can differ widely. Factors such as the nature of the property, how straightforward the transaction is and how quickly each party moves all play a role. Occasionally, even chance or unforeseen delays can influence how soon you reach completion.

While every transaction is different, having an experienced conveyancing solicitor can help reduce delays and keep things moving towards completion.

What is conveyancing and why is it important during property transactions in England?

If you want to buy or sell property in England, conveyancing is part of the process.

Conveyancing is the legal service carried out by a solicitor when you are buying or selling a property. It is a necessary part of the process and must be completed for the transaction to be legally valid.

To learn more about it, read: What is conveyancing?

How long does it take to buy or sell a residential property in Teesside & North Yorkshire?

While region-specific data for Teesside and North Yorkshire is not readily available, several sources offer insight into the national average timeframes for conveyancing across England.

According to the HOA (HomeOwners Alliance), on average, the process takes between 8 and 12 weeks.

However, it can be as little as 6 to 8 weeks for a simple, chain-free purchase and up to 16 weeks or more for complex transactions.

1. Pre-contract: Appointing a solicitor, instructing searches and arranging a mortgage (usually 2 to 6 weeks).
2. Draft contract and enquiries: Reviewing documents, survey and local authority searches (2 to 10 weeks).
3. Exchange and completion: Setting a completion date (usually 1 week between exchange and completion, but this can vary).

What can cause delays in the conveyancing process?

Delays in the conveyancing process are often caused by unforeseen issues, but some of the most common include:

• Complex property chains involving multiple linked transactions.
• Hold-ups with mortgage offers or local authority searches.
• Problems uncovered during surveys or title investigations.
• Slow communication or response times from estate agents, solicitors or other parties involved.

How long does it take to conduct a commercial property in Teesside & North Yorkshire?

As with residential property transactions, there is no published average specific to Teesside or North Yorkshire, but national data gives a useful indication. On average, commercial property transactions in England take between 3 and 6 months (12 to 24 weeks) from instruction to completion.

In more straightforward cases, such as the purchase of a freehold property with no complications, the process can complete in as little as 10 to 12 weeks.

However, more complex transactions, such as those involving large sites, existing tenants or leasehold interests, can take significantly longer, particularly where planning permissions, regulatory matters or third-party consents are involved.

1. Due diligence: Comprehensive investigations, including searches, environmental assessments and lease reviews (4 to 8 weeks).
2. Contract negotiation: Finalising terms, addressing issues and clarifying responsibilities (variable, depending on complexity).
3. Exchange and completion: Legally binding agreement and transfer of funds (completion date is set at exchange).
4. Post-completion: Registration and formalities (estimated around 2 to 6 months). Please see further information regarding HM Land Registry processing times, visit: HM Land Registry Processing Times.

How to speed up the conveyancing process in Teesside & North Yorkshire

While certain delays are outside your control, there are practical steps you can take to help ensure the process moves as efficiently as possible.

• Instruct your solicitor early.
• Prepare all necessary documents.
• Respond to queries quickly.
• Secure your mortgage in advance
• Keep in regular contact.
• Avoid long chains where possible.

We are a firm of expert conveyancing solicitors with offices in Middlesbrough and Redcar

If you are planning to buy or sell property anywhere in England or Wales, our experienced team is here to help.

You can find further information on our Property & Conveyancing page, or Contact Us to arrange a free, no-obligation discussion and receive a quote.

This content is for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.