For the reasons explained here it is impossible to predict at (or before) the outset how long a conveyancing transaction will take

That said, as far as the legal process is concerned – ignoring factors such as arranging mortgage finance, agreeing a moving date, etc – the pre-contract work is likely to take between two and four weeks and the time between exchange of contracts and the moving date is usually about two weeks

That gives a timeline of about six weeks, assuming no significant problems are encountered

Bear in mind, however, that this runs from when the chain of transactions is complete and all solicitors/conveyancers have been instructed – and been paid the money for search fees in cases where they insist on this

There is, therefore, no real point in discussing moving dates until the chain is complete. At that point, a sensible moving date to aim for would be about eight weeks ahead, to allow for delays and problems

However, you should not book removals, give notice to terminate a tenancy of rented accommodation, etc, until contracts are exchanged: until that point, anyone in the chain can withdraw – with no liability to anyone else – and the chain can collapse

As with so many aspects of moving house, the secret is in communication: if there is good communication between each buyer and seller – often best through the estate agents – and between each buyer/seller and their solicitor, a lot of frustration at apparent delays can be avoided

A slightly more detailed overview of the conveyancing process is here: Guide to moving