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New findings from Ochresoft reveal a persistent issue across the conveyancing sector: despite slight improvements in some areas, the overall time it takes to complete a property transaction is still far longer than it once was.
For example, while search return times have seen some gains, the end-to-end moving journey remains lengthy. According to Ochresoft, the average time from instruction to completion for property purchases stood at 120 days in 2024, down slightly from 123 in 2023. Sales, on the other hand, crept up from 159 to 160 days. For context, back in 2007, the typical timeline was just 75 days from start to finish.
Here at Hoowla, our own system data reflects similar patterns. Our figures show that purchase completions rose from 115 days in 2023 to 125 in 2024, and sale completions moved from 137 to 151 days. Even remortgages, which tend to be quicker, saw an increase from 82 to 85 days. With more firms using Hoowla each year, we’re able to draw from a growing pool of data, offering a detailed view into how transaction times are evolving across the board.
However, one point of difference is how data is gathered and interpreted. Ochresoft hasn’t made it clear whether their figures include the post-completion period or stop at key collection. In contrast, Hoowla’s reporting is based on the moment clients receive their keys, which could naturally lead to slightly different averages. These distinctions are crucial when comparing timelines between providers and trying to make sense of industry trends.
One recurring theme across research is the role that pre-contract enquiries play in delays. Ochresoft reports that the average time between sending and receiving enquiries has more than doubled since 2007, though it did improve slightly from 60 days in 2023 to 52 in 2024. But Hoowla’s analysis suggests that a higher volume of enquiries doesn’t always equate to longer transaction times. Our recent data release challenges the idea that simply reducing the number of enquiries will significantly speed things up.
It’s worth remembering that conveyancing is a multifaceted process. Delays don’t always signal inefficiency. Often, they stem from compliance requirements like ID verification and anti-money laundering checks, particularly when clients are slow to submit necessary documents.
Lenders also play a major role. Industry-wide data shows that the time between instruction and mortgage offer has grown from 38 days in 2007 to 59 in 2024. Even as decision-making tools improve, these bottlenecks persist. Chains further complicate matters: one delay in a chain of buyers and sellers can ripple across multiple transactions. And while technology can help speed things up, firms that are slower to adopt digital tools may still rely on manual steps, causing inconsistencies across the sector.
That’s why digital transformation, while impactful, can’t solve everything on its own. At Hoowla, we’ve built tools that help firms automate admin tasks, manage case milestones, and communicate more effectively, but real progress comes when technology is paired with process improvements and collaborative thinking.
To truly shorten timelines, the industry must commit to a data-led approach. Rather than relying on anecdotal experience, firms should analyse patterns, identify pain points, and act on evidence. With technology, smarter workflows, and greater coordination across the sector, faster and more predictable transactions are possible.
We’re committed to supporting that progress, and will continue sharing meaningful insights that promote efficiency and transparency across conveyancing.
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