By Legal Futures Associate Hoowla
Recent industry research highlights a persistent challenge in the conveyancing industry; transaction timelines remain significantly longer than historical averages, despite marginal improvements in certain areas. While the time taken for some stages, such as search returns, has improved, the overall home-moving process continues to be protracted.
Industry data shows that the average time from conveyancer instruction to completion for purchase transactions was 120 days in 2024, down slightly from 123 days in 2023. Sale transactions, however, increased to 160 days in 2024 from 159 in the previous year. These figures represent substantial increases when compared to 2007, when completion times averaged 75 days.
At Hoowla, we’ve been able to use our own conveyancing software data to provide additional context on these extended timelines. The average time to complete a purchase transaction rose from 115 days in 2023 to 125 days in 2024, while sale transactions increased from 137 to 151 days in the same period. Remortgage cases, while less impacted, also saw a slight rise from 82 to 85 days. As more firms adopt Hoowla and the volume of cases tracked within our system increases year on year, our data continues to provide a clearer picture of industry-wide trends. These numbers indicate that, rather than improving, the process remains challenging and, in some cases, is becoming more protracted. You can read the piece released earlier this year to compare data sets if desired.
It is unclear how the data has been collected and whether their reported transaction timelines include the time taken to send post-completion documents or if they measure from the point at which homeowners collect their keys. Hoowla’s data is collected from the latter, meaning our benchmarks may provide a different perspective on transaction efficiency.
One of the most frequently cited contributors to transaction delays is the pre-contract enquiry process. According to industry research, the time between raising enquiries and receiving replies has more than doubled since 2007, with a reduction from 60 days in 2023 to 52 days in 2024. However, Hoowla’s data suggests that higher numbers of enquiries do not necessarily correlate with longer transaction times. Our enquiries data release challenges the assumption that reducing enquiry volumes alone will lead to faster transactions.
Conveyancing is a complex process with many moving parts, and delays can arise even when solicitors are performing at their best. Verifying identity and completing anti-money laundering (AML) checks are critical compliance steps that can introduce delays, particularly if clients do not provide the required documentation promptly.
Lender and mortgage delays are also a key factor. Industry research highlights that the time from conveyancer instruction to mortgage offer receipt has risen from 38 days in 2007 to 59 days in 2024. Even with improvements in lender decision-making, these delays continue to impact overall transaction times. Property chains introduce further challenges, as transactions involving multiple parties are inherently more vulnerable to delays. A single issue in one part of the chain can have a cascading effect, slowing the process for all involved. Additionally, while technology can significantly improve efficiency, firms that are slower to adopt digital processes may take longer to respond, sign documents, and complete essential steps. This creates discrepancies in transaction times across the industry.
While technology has played a role in managing or automating workflows and reducing administrative burdens, it is not a standalone solution for industry-wide inefficiencies. Hoowla’s conveyancing software, for example, automates repetitive tasks, tracks transaction milestones, and enhances collaboration. However, meaningful improvements require a combination of technology adoption and process optimisation.
To bring transaction times closer to historical benchmarks, a data-driven approach is important. By using real-time insights into transaction patterns, firms can identify bottlenecks and refine workflows based on measurable data rather than assumptions. The conversation must shift from anecdotal frustrations to evidence-based solutions. With a combination of technology, process refinement, and industry-wide collaboration, the conveyancing sector can work towards a more efficient and predictable home-moving process.
We look forward to continuing to analyse and share data that supports transparency and efficiency within the industry.
If this has piqued your interest in adopting conveyancing software, or are looking to upgrade your firms’ tech, book a no-obligation case management software demo with Adam Curtis.
