Transferring property ownership in the UK can be a frustrating experience. Traditional conveyancing is known for its delays, paperwork, and slow communication between solicitors, banks, and HM Land Registry.
In fact, according to the HomeOwners Alliance, the average property transaction in the UK can take 8–12 weeks or more. Many transfers drag on longer due to avoidable issues.
Let’s look at the 5 most common causes of delays in property transfers — and how you can avoid them with a modern digital approach.
One of the biggest causes of delay is incomplete paperwork. Missing signatures, outdated deeds, or errors in names and addresses can cause HM Land Registry to reject applications.
How to avoid it:
✔ Use a solicitor-backed online property transfer service like Property Swift. Documents are checked digitally, reducing errors before submission.
Traditional solicitors often require in-person ID checks, which means waiting for appointments, posting documents, or delays if papers go missing.
How to avoid it:
✔ Digital ID verification can be completed online in minutes, rather than days.
Even when everything is submitted correctly, delays at HM Land Registry can slow the process. Some types of applications - such as first registrations or complex cases - take longer to process.
How to avoid it:
✔ While you can’t control Land Registry times, using a streamlined service ensures applications are submitted correctly the first time, reducing rejections and repeat submissions.
Traditional conveyancing involves exchanging letters, making calls, and engaging in back-and-forth communication between multiple solicitors. This often leads to unnecessary waiting times.
How to avoid it:
✔ A single digital platform brings all steps - from ID checks to deed preparation - under one roof, speeding up the process.
Inheritance Tax, Capital Gains Tax, or Stamp Duty Land Tax (in some cases) may apply. If not addressed early, these can hold up the transfer.
How to avoid it:
✔ Get proper tax advice alongside your property transfer. At Property Swift, solicitors handle the legal side, while clients are advised to confirm tax details with HMRC or an accountant.
At Property Swift, we’ve built a platform to eliminate the bottlenecks that cause stress:
✔ 100% online – no paperwork or office visits
✔ Faster ID checks – digital and secure
✔ Solicitor-backed – legally compliant, no rejected applications
✔ Clear guidance – so you don’t miss important steps
✔ Transparent pricing – no costly surprises
Property transfers don’t need to take months. By avoiding common mistakes - missing documents, slow ID checks, and poor communication — you can complete the process much faster.
With Property Swift’s online property transfer service, you’ll enjoy a process that’s simpler, quicker, and solicitor-backed from start to finish.
👉 Ready to transfer property without delays? Start online today.