Selling a House? Conveyancing Tips to Help Avoid Delays from Bennett Griffin

With property market conditions continuing to fluctuate, many people selling a house are keen to ensure their transaction progresses as smoothly and efficiently as possible.

Once an offer has been accepted, there are several proactive steps you can take to minimise delays and keep your sale on track.

Below, our Residential Property team has outlined some key conveyancing tips for anyone planning to sell their home.

1. Set clear and realistic timescales

Agreeing a proposed timetable for exchange and completion early in the process helps create structure and direction for all parties.

Your estate agent can assist in managing expectations and encouraging the buyer to progress matters, such as arranging surveys or mortgage applications, without delay. However, it is important that any agreed timescales are achievable to avoid unnecessary pressure or disappointment.

2. Ensure documentation for any works is in order

If you have carried out works to your property, such as extensions, alterations or conversions, it is essential to ensure all relevant consents and paperwork are available.

This may include:

• Planning permission
• Listed building consent, if applicable
• Building regulations approval and completion certificates
• Freeholder or management company consent for leasehold properties

A lack of documentation in this area is one of the most common causes of delay in residential property transactions. Identifying and addressing any gaps early can help prevent complications later on.

3. Selling a leasehold property? Order the management pack promptly

If your property is leasehold, your solicitor will need to obtain a management information pack from the freeholder or managing agent.

These packs can take several weeks to arrive, so requesting them at the earliest opportunity is crucial. Delays in receiving this information are a frequent bottleneck in leasehold transactions.

4. Address potential issues proactively

If you are aware of anything that might raise questions, such as missing consents or boundary concerns, it is best to discuss this with your solicitor at the outset.

There are often solutions available, including:

• Indemnity insurance policies
• Retrospective consents
• Practical negotiations with the buyer

Taking early advice allows a strategy to be put in place, reducing the risk of problems arising at a critical stage of the transaction.

5. Maintain open communication

Clear and consistent communication between all parties, including the seller, buyer, solicitors and estate agents, is vital.

Choosing a solicitor who is approachable and proactive can make a significant difference. A collaborative approach between your legal adviser and estate agent can help ensure momentum is maintained throughout the process.

6. Be prepared to remain flexible

While every seller hopes for a straightforward transaction, issues can arise, particularly in uncertain market conditions.

Being open to reasonable buyer requests and considering practical solutions where necessary can help prevent a sale from falling through. Your solicitor can guide you on the best practical approach if challenges arise.

How Bennett Griffin LLP can help

At Bennett Griffin, our Residential Property team has extensive experience guiding clients through the house sale process.

We pride ourselves on providing clear advice, proactive communication and practical solutions to help your transaction proceed as smoothly as possible.

If you are considering selling your property and would like further guidance, please get in touch.

You can call our Worthing office on 01903 229999 or email info@bennett-griffin.co.uk.