Average timeframe to sell a property exceeds 200 days for the first time

In a quarter where our Partner Agents sold more properties than ever via auction, new data revealed that the average time to sell in the UK via Private Treaty now stands at 205 days^, which is the first time the 200-day threshold has been exceeded. The previous average of 160 days^^ was already a cause for concern, prompting more buyers and sellers to turn to auction for its faster completions.

Currently, homes are selling quicker than ever, with properties spending an average of 36 days on the market and 52% reaching SSTC within two months**, however this pace isn’t translating into faster completions. Delays from outdated conveyancing methods, slow search timelines and manual processes continue to hold the market back.

A growing number of agents and consumers know that it doesn’t have to be this way. Awareness of auction and confidence in the results it delivers are at an all-time high. With this latest update, even more consumers are expected to seek a different way to move, frustrated by the increasing timeframes and lack of progress towards achieving a better moving experience in the UK.

Now is the time to make sure auction is an option you can offer. Our new ‘Auction Watch’ magazine is also launching at the perfect time, helping to dispel any outdated misconceptions around auction, and show its place in today’s property market. Auction is the modern way to move, helping speed, certainty and transparency to become the norm.

Customer reviews:

“I was really impressed with the service. They were the most helpful people throughout the process of buying my first home, especially when it came to clear communication and friendly, regular updates. They kept everything on track and made what could have been a stressful process feel smooth and manageable. The purchase even completed a week ahead of schedule.”

5* Trustpilot review

“Brilliant service from start to finish. I’d never sold a house through auction and was unsure of what to expect. They explained the process thoroughly and kept me informed and up to date and were always available to offer advice when needed. They were equally as efficient with the after auction and completion process. Great communication, with regular milestone updates. I’m so grateful that they made the whole process as painless as possible.” “I was really impressed with the service. They were the most helpful people throughout the process of buying my first home, especially when it came to clear communication and friendly, regular updates. They kept everything on track and made what could have been a stressful process feel smooth and manageable. The purchase even completed a week ahead of schedule.”

5* Trustpilot review

*From receipt of draft contracts. Based on grade one standard properties.

^Data from TwentyEA on behalf of Cavendish.

^^From conveyancer instruction to completion for sales transactions in 2024 (Landmark Property Transactions Report 2024).

**Zoopla UK Housing Market Report.