Recommended time between exchange & completion?

alicardinal

I'm exchanging contracts today - 2nd in a chain of 4.

Solicitor has called to ask about completion date. He's recommending at least 2 weeks between exchange & completion, so completing on 31st October. I think he's had some problems with other solicitor's up and down the chain not doing things when they were supposed to, so he's obviously concerned that this, coupled with potential post strikes could mean problems.

I'd like to complete before this - not least because I'm having a baby due on 25th November, so moving sooner rather than later would be much better.
I also know that our buyers and our vendors want to complete next week (around 24th Oct).

I know we're just quibbling about a few days, but what are the risks with having a shorter timescale between exchange & completion. I know you can do it on the same day, but is it advisable?

Ideas on 'worst case scenario' welcome (but not if they involve me giving birth in a layby brought on by stress as the whole things collapsed on completion day....:eek: )

cattie

My personal choice is 28 days between exchange & completion to give enough time to arrange everything associated with the move. I'd reduce this to 21 days at a push & certainly wouldn't be happy with just a 2 week timescale.