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Buying or selling a property can be an exciting time, but it can also test your patience. While everyone hopes for a smooth and straightforward transaction, there are a number of factors that can cause delays along the way.
At Norrie Waite & Slater, our experienced Conveyancing Teams work hard to keep matters progressing and to help clients navigate any challenges that arise.
Here are seven of the most common reasons house moves can be delayed:
One of the biggest causes of delays is the property chain.
If your buyer is waiting for their buyer, who is waiting for their buyer, a delay anywhere in the chain can have a knock-on effect for everyone involved.
The longer the chain, the greater the potential for complications and changes in timescales.
Mortgage applications can sometimes take longer than expected, particularly if lenders require additional information, valuations or further checks.
Without a formal mortgage offer in place, contracts cannot usually be exchanged, meaning transactions can stall.
Local authority, environmental and drainage searches are an important part of the conveyancing process.
Search turnaround times can vary significantly depending on the local authority involved, and occasionally results can raise additional questions that need further investigation.
Property transactions rely on accurate documentation.
Missing certificates, guarantees, planning permissions, building regulations approvals or property information forms can all cause delays while additional information is obtained.
A survey may identify defects or concerns that weren't previously known to either party.
This can sometimes lead to further inspections, renegotiation of the purchase price, or additional work needing to be completed before the transaction progresses.
Leasehold transactions often involve additional parties, such as managing agents or freeholders.
Obtaining management information packs and replies to leasehold enquiries can take time and may extend the overall transaction process.
Unfortunately, circumstances can change during a transaction.
Changes to finances, employment, family situations or even a change of heart can impact timescales and occasionally cause transactions to fall through altogether.
While some delays are unavoidable, having an experienced conveyancing team on your side can make a significant difference.
At Norrie Waite & Slater, our teams in Sheffield, Parkgate and Killamarsh work proactively with clients, estate agents, mortgage lenders and other solicitors to help keep transactions moving and to resolve issues as efficiently as possible.
If you're thinking of buying or selling a property, we'd be delighted to help guide you through the process.
📞 Contact our Conveyancing Team today.
