Conveyancing With Scary Delays: How to Avoid Common Conveyancing Pitfalls
Oct 27, 2025 | General, Conveyancing
Buying or selling a property is one of the biggest financial steps most people will ever take. It should be an exciting time, but for many, the process feels daunting. One of the biggest fears is the dreaded delay. In the spirit of October, let’s look at the most common conveyancing pitfalls that can cause scary delays, and how to avoid them.
The Most Common Causes of Delay
1. Incomplete paperwork – Missing information, unsigned forms, or misplaced documents can bring everything to a standstill. Your conveyancer cannot work on your file until you have completed and passed all necessary onboarding checks and AML verifications.
2. Slow mortgage offers – Lenders often require detailed checks, and any missing details can hold up approval. Make sure all information requested by your lender or mortgage broker is provided in a timely manner and with as much detail as possible.
3. Searches and enquiries – Local authority searches and solicitor enquiries can take time, especially if there are unusual issues with the property. Ensuring you have paid your money on account where requested quickly ensures the searches can be ordered as early as possible to keep ahead.
4. Chains – When several sales and purchases are linked, one delay can affect everyone.Consider how long your chain is with the knowledge that longer chains can lead to higher risk of complications.
5. Unresolved disputes – Issues such as unclear boundaries, planning permissions, or leasehold problems can add weeks to the timeline. If you notice something during your visit to the property at time of viewing flag it to your solicitor or conveyancer at the outset so that they can investigate it for you during the transaction. Is there a pathway accessible by the public going across the boundary line? Is there a strange looking garage conversion? Flag it as early as possible to ensure good due diligence and reassurance on any concerns from the outset.
How to Avoid the Pitfalls
• Get organised early: Gather ID, financial details, and property documents before you put your home on the market or make an offer.
• Use experienced solicitors: An efficient conveyancing team can anticipate problems and deal with them quickly.
• Be responsive: Reply promptly to requests for information or documents.
• Stay proactive with your mortgage: Have an agreement in principle ready and keep communication open with your lender.
• Keep communication clear: Updates between estate agents, solicitors, and buyers or sellers reduce misunderstandings.
The Benefit of Joined-Up Support
Working with a firm that provides both estate agency and legal services can make the journey smoother. With O’Hara Properties & Estates and O’Hara Solicitors working together, our clients benefit from seamless communication and fewer surprises along the way.
Turning a Fright into a Smooth Move
Delays can feel overwhelming, but with the right preparation and support, your property journey does not need to be a nightmare. Our team is here to guide you through every step, keeping things moving and helping you avoid the pitfalls that cause stress and frustration.
If you are planning to buy or sell, contact us today to make sure your move is as smooth and stress-free as possible
