First Time Buyer February/March 2025

LEGAL

Is it possible to move into a new home before Easter?

As the Christmas frenzy recedes from memory, a new year often prompts thoughts of a house move. Spring is on the horizon, and the idea of moving into a new home for Easter is appealing. Many potential homebuyers will want to know whether it is feasible. Stephen Ward, Director of Strategy and External Relations at the Council for Licensed Conveyancers, explains

According to 2024 research from Home Sale Pack, the average time it takes to sell a home in the UK is 183 days; or six months. This timeline includes the entire process, from listing the property to completing the sale. However, there are steps you can take to make the buying process as smooth as possible.

BE PREPARED A common cause of delays in the homebuying process is not having

complete paperwork. Before you even open Rightmove, make sure all your paperwork is in order. This includes having a mortgage agreement in principle, as well as bank statements, utility bills, payslips, and a valid form of ID such as your passport.You don’t want to go through part of the process and then take steps backwards due to lack of paperwork. Getting a conveyancer in early is crucial. Conveyancers are legal experts that handle the transfer of property ownership, and having one ready to go can help streamline the process. Make sure to choose a conveyancer who is transparent about their fees and services. MANAGE EXPECTATIONS Having grounded expectations about the timeline is vital. Even if you do everything right, you can still run into delays as there are factors beyond your control. These can be delays in receiving mortgage approval or issues in the property chain. The latter is particularly tricky, as your purchase may be dependent on other buyers and sellers completing their transactions.

against fraud. Always double-check the bank account details before transferring any money. If in doubt, call your conveyancer to confirm the details.

regulated either by the Council for Licensed Conveyancers or the Law Society. Regulation ensures that you’re protected should anything go wrong during the process. Additionally, consider how the conveyancer communicates with clients. Do they offer in-person meetings, or is their service primarily online? Do they provide regular updates via email or through an app? Ensuring that their communication style aligns with your preferences can prevent misunderstandings and keep the process on track. EMBRACE TECHNOLOGY The conveyancing process has evolved significantly in recent years, with digital ID checks becoming increasingly common. These checks, which use biometric and cryptographic technology to verify your identity, have helped speed up the property buying process. If your conveyancer offers digital ID verification, it’s worth taking advantage of this option to avoid unnecessary delays. However, with the rise of digital tools comes the need for increased vigilance

STAY INFORMED AND COMMUNICATE

Finally, the most common cause of frustration in the homebuying process is a lack of communication. Make sure you understand each step of the process and don’t hesitate to ask your conveyancer for clarification if anything is unclear. Similarly, if you’re going to be unavailable at any point, inform your conveyancer in advance so they can plan accordingly. While it may not be possible to move into your new home before Easter this year, following these steps can help ensure that your sale is as smooth as possible. By being prepared, managing expectations, choosing the right professionals and embracing digital tools, you can get into your new home as fast as possible.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT CONVEYANCER

Your choice of conveyancer can have a significant impact on the speed and smoothness of buying your new home. You should ensure your conveyancer is

For more information or to find a CLC registered conveyancer in your area, please visit: clc-uk.org

88 First Time Buyer February/March 2025

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