The Scary Truth About Delays: What Really Happens in a Property Transaction

Buying or selling a home is one of the biggest financial steps you’ll ever take.

It’s exciting, but for many, it’s also frustrating.

You get your offer accepted… and then suddenly everything seems to stall. Weeks pass, your inbox fills with jargon, and you’re left wondering: why does this take so long?

At MSD, we know how stressful the waiting game can feel.

So this month, we’re shining a torch on the process — explaining what really happens behind the scenes, why delays occur, and how to keep your move on track.

1. The Key Stages of a Property Transaction

Every transaction follows a broad timeline:

Instruction – you formally appoint your solicitor.
Searches – local authority, drainage, environmental and more must be requested and returned.
Mortgage Offer – lenders issue formal offers only once all their checks are complete.
Enquiries – raised by your solicitor to clarify issues with the property or paperwork.
Contract Approval – once everything is in order, contracts are agreed and exchanged.
Completion – money changes hands, keys are released, and the move is official.

2. Where Delays Creep In

Search times – some councils return results in days, others take weeks.
Mortgage hold-ups – missing documents, valuation issues, or slow processing can add weeks.
Enquiries – chains create back-and-forth delays if one party is slow to reply.
Unexpected surprises – restrictive covenants, missing guarantees, or title issues can all surface.

3. How to Keep Your Move on Track

While some delays are unavoidable, preparation makes a huge difference:

✅ Get your finances and Source of Funds lined up early
✅ Apply for your mortgage with all documents ready
✅ Dig out guarantees, certificates, and Title Deeds before they’re requested
✅ Respond quickly to any questions from your solicitor

If this part is causing you worry, check out our last blog post, ‘The Ultimate Guide To Your Conveyancing Process’ here.

https://msdlaw.co.uk/the-ultimate-guide-to-your-conveyancing-process/

4. How MSD Helps

We can’t control every step of the chain, but we can:

✔️ Use trusted systems like Redbrick and Armalytix to keep things moving
✔️ Chase for updates and push for timely responses
✔️ Explain jargon in plain English so you know what’s happening
✔️ Support you through every twist and turn

✔️ Use your Client Portal to keep you updated in real-time

If you only take one thing away, let it be this

Delays aren’t always a sign something is wrong — they’re often part of the process.

But the earlier you prepare, the smoother your move will be.

And with MSD in your corner, you won’t be left in the dark.

👉 Ready to start your move? Get in touch today.

🙌 BONUS: Useful resources for buyers

“Know Before You Buy: Tip #1 – Check for Restrictive Covenants Before You Extend” → A must-read for future renovators – https://msdlaw.co.uk/what-every-buyer-should-know-before-renovating/
“The Ultimate Guide to Your Conveyancing Process” → Step-by-step breakdown of the full journey – https://msdlaw.co.uk/the-ultimate-guide-to-your-conveyancing-process/
“How We Take Care of You During the Conveyancing Process” → Our client-first approach explained – https://msdlaw.co.uk/how-we-take-care-of-you-during-the-conveyancing-process/
“Taking Care of Yourself During the Conveyancing Process” → Stress-free tips and wellbeing ideas – https://msdlaw.co.uk/taking-care-of-yourself-during-the-conveyancing-process-a-solicitors-guide/

To find out more about how we can help, get in touch today – 01952 825050 / info@msdlaw.co.uk

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