Letting & Estate Agent Podcast Why does it take 19 weeks to get a sale through? - Ep. 2476
Feb 17, 2026
Chris Ellis, a Kent estate agent with 20+ years handling sales progression and conveyancing, explains why UK property transactions stall. He discusses outdated conveyancing, the benefits of instructing solicitors at listing, using local solicitors and referrals, and the value of a dedicated sales progressor. Short, practical fixes to cut weeks from timelines are the focus.
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Conveyancing System Is Fundamentally Broken
- The UK conveyancing system is fundamentally broken and dated according to Chris Ellis.
- Ellis says it hasn't improved in his 20+ years and multiple factors combine to slow sales to about 19 weeks.
Stacked Causes Make Transactions Drag
- Multiple causes stack up: inexperienced agents, conveyancers working by volume, and outdated processes.
- Ellis highlights reservation agreements and early solicitor instruction as fixes that the industry rarely adopts.
Choose Local Solicitors Based On Performance
- Do use local solicitors selected for current performance rather than anonymous panel choices.
- Ellis admits his firm accepts referral fees but prioritises whichever solicitor is actually doing the job promptly.