How long does it usually take to sell a house in England?

Jovialist

Hi,

Due to an inheritance, I need to take my part in selling a house in the near future, and I really have zero experience of these things.

So, how long does it take to sell a house in England?

To be clear, I'm not asking how long it takes before someone makes you an offer on a house, as I know that can be either nearly immediately or months, depending on the price you're asking/desirability.

More, how long does it take after you've agreed a price with a buyer to sale completion? I guess I'm really after an average. I know there can be various complications, like people stuck in chains, needing to get mortgages, solicitors potentially dragging their feet, etc.

I guess I might be still asking how long is a piece of string, but what's the minimum, what's usually the average, what's potentially the longest, and what's your experience of going from agreed price to actual completed sale?

Thanks for any replies.

babyblade41

I think  if you look at 12 weeks then it would be there or thereabouts 

That's probably an average , but as you stated  lots depend on this 

I've done one in 2 weeks but  that is exceptional.. I think my longest was  3 years ago at 14 weeks but I had to wait for adverse possession to go through 

Flugelhorn

I have bought 3 recently - all no chain, one was 5 weeks, the others about 12 weeks (DoV needed) and 10 weeks  

Woolsery

12 weeks is often quoted here, but it depends on so many variables it could also be 12 months.Three  months assumes a smooth transaction with paperwork in order and  a willing and able buyer.

For example, we took 11 weeks to buy this house, but with different solicitors and neighbours it might have been much longer. The vendor and neighbour had altered the route of a right of way and that had to be reflected in the documentation of both properties before we could purchase.

lookstraightahead

I think the actual process can be about 8-12 weeks, but it's mainly the situation that buyers and vendors are in that makes it quicker or slower. When you find a buyer, are they relying on a sale, are they in a chain etc. this will obviously affect the length.

ciderboy2009

Have you actually inherited the house yet (ie: it's in your name)? 
If not, and Probate is required, then this can delay the sale quite dramatically.