New government plans to speed up the conveyancing process have been announced — but will they really make it easier and faster to move home?
We live in a digital age where almost everything — from banking to investing — can be done online. Yet, when it comes to buying or selling property, things are still surprisingly slow.
The conveyancing process (the legal transfer of ownership from one person to another) is still heavily paper-based, and it shows. It currently takes an average of five months to go from sale agreed to completion.*
That’s why, earlier this month, the government unveiled proposals to digitalise the home-buying process — a move that could transform how property transactions are handled.
What’s changing?
The plan aims to create a more joined-up system where essential information is made available instantly to solicitors, surveyors and mortgage lenders. The goal is to make property data more accessible from the outset, reducing surprises later and helping fewer sales fall through.
The proposals include:
• Developing a digital ID verification service for buyers and sellers.
• Running pilot projects with local councils to digitise property information.
• Exploring how more data (like title deeds and searches) can be securely shared online.
Will it work?
Most of the property industry is supportive.
Rightmove CEO Johan Svanstrom said: “Digitising the property market is key to helping speed up the moving process.”
Propertymark CEO Nathan Emerson added: “The housing sector will benefit enormously from the digitalisation of property transactions.”
However, not everyone is convinced. Some conveyancers argue that bureaucracy and red tape, rather than paperwork itself, are the real reasons for delays.
When could we see change?
Digitalising such a complex system is a massive task, so it may take time before home movers notice a real difference. Many in the industry believe we’ll see gradual progress rather than overnight transformation.
What can buyers and sellers do now?
While we wait for technology to catch up, there are practical ways to help your own sale or purchase move more quickly.
• Choose an experienced estate agent. A proactive local agent with strong communication skills can keep things moving and spot issues early.
• Pick your conveyancer carefully. Low-cost firms often handle high volumes of work, which can mean slower response times.
• Be prepared. Gather the documents you’ll need — ID, proof of address, mortgage information and property forms — before you’re asked.
Some sales complete in far less time than the national average (even as quickly as six weeks), especially when everyone involved is well-organised.
If you’re considering selling your home in Thetford or want advice on how to move efficiently, get in touch for a free property valuation and expert guidance.
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Source: Rightmove, January 2025
Article by Andrew Overman | Partner | Location Location East
