Buying & Selling
How Long Does It Take to Sell a House in the UK? A Complete 2025 Guide
Surya
May 15, 2025
How long does it take to sell a house in the UK?
Selling a home in the UK in 2025 typically takes between 62 and 84 days from listing to legal completion. However, the average time to sell a house in the UK can vary significantly depending on factors like location, property type, market conditions, and whether you’re involved in a chain. In this guide, we’ll walk you through every stage of the sale, offer advice to speed up the process, and explain the common pitfalls to avoid.
What is the average time to sell a house in the UK in 2025?
According to the latest data from Zoopla and Rightmove, the national average time to sell a house in the UK is around 70 days from the first day of marketing to accepting an offer, and 12–16 weeks from offer to completion.
Average time by region:
England: 70–80 days
Wales: 65–75 days
Scotland: 50–65 days (faster due to the Scottish legal process)
Northern Ireland: 60–75 days
Recent average time to sell a house UK Reddit discussions also suggest a slowdown compared to early 2025, influenced by cautious buyers and slightly higher mortgage rates.
How long does it take to sell a house from offer to completion?
Time to receive an offer:
On average, UK sellers can expect to receive an offer within 30–50 days of listing, depending on how competitively priced and well-marketed the property is. (Average time to get an offer on a house)
Time from offer accepted to exchange:
Once an offer is accepted, it usually takes 6 to 10 weeks to exchange contracts (how long does it take to sell a house once an offer is accepted).
Time from exchange to completion:
Completion typically occurs 1–3 weeks after exchanging contracts, although flexible agreements can shorten this if needed.
📌 Tip: The smoother your paperwork, the quicker you’ll get the money after completion (how long does it take to sell a house and get the money).
Factors that can affect how long it takes to sell a house
Several factors can either accelerate or delay your sale:
Asking price and property valuation
Overpricing is one of the biggest reasons why a house would be on the market for a long time. Setting a competitive, realistic price helps generate immediate interest.
Local market conditions
If you’re selling in a hot market, your house could sell within weeks. In a cold market, expect longer timeframes.
Condition of the property
Well-maintained homes requiring fewer repairs typically attract quicker offers.
Seasonal trends
Spring (March–May) remains the best time to sell a house in the UK, while the Christmas period is often slower.
Marketing strategy
Professional photography, detailed listings, and strategic marketing by an experienced agent greatly impact the house sale timeline UK.
Common delays in the house-selling process
Even once an offer is accepted, delays can occur:
Buyer mortgage issues are slowing down approvals.
Survey and valuation problems leading to renegotiations.
Slow solicitors/conveyancers are delaying paperwork.
The property chain collapses, causing knock-on delays.
Leasehold properties where missing paperwork or managing agent delays extend timelines.
How long does it take to sell a house with no chain?
If you're lucky enough to be involved in a no-chain sale, the average house sale time UK no chain is 6–8 weeks from offer to completion.
Benefits of chain-free sales:
Reduced risk of falls.
Faster negotiations.
Less stress during the conveyancing process.
How to speed up your house sale
Want a quick sale house UK? Here’s how you can sell your house faster:
Set the right price based on realistic valuations.
Get a pre-sale survey to fix any hidden issues early.
Repair minor faults to boost buyer confidence.
Hire a skilled estate agent who has experience in your area.
Be flexible with viewings — weekends, evenings, and short notice.
Selling your house through different methods: how it impacts speed
Private treaty (traditional sale)
Typical sale time: 3–6 months.
Auction sale
Sell in around 2–3 months (but often at 80–90% of market value).
Selling to cash buyers or quick sale companies
Can be completed within 2–4 weeks.
Pros: speed and certainty.
Cons: lower sale price (typically 80–85% of market value).
How long does it take to sell different types of properties?
Detached houses tend to sell more slowly due to higher price points.
Semi-detached houses: popular with families, average sales times.
Terraced houses: quick to sell in urban areas.
Flats/leasehold properties: can take longer due to leasehold complications.
🔍 Note: Leasehold issues often slow down average time on market before offer.
FAQS about selling a house in the UK
How long does it take to sell a house in the UK?
Typically between 2–4 months from listing to completion.
How long do most houses take to sell?
The average time to sell a house in 2025 was around 60–70 days for an accepted offer, with 8–12 weeks to completion.
What is the average time to get an offer on a house in the UK?
On average, it takes 30–50 days, depending on property type and location.
What's the quickest you can sell a house in the UK?
Through a cash buyer or auction, as fast as 2–4 weeks.
How long does it take to sell a house after accepting an offer?
Usually around 8–12 weeks from offer to completion.
How many viewings does it take to sell a house?
The UK average is 8–12 viewings before receiving a serious offer.
What happens if my house takes too long to sell?
You may need to review your asking price, upgrade your marketing, or switch agents.
Key takeaways: How to sell your house faster in 2025
Price competitively from the start.
Use a trusted local estate agent.
Prepare all documents early.
Market your home professionally.
Be proactive and flexible.
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