Larger estate agencies are often the most visible. Their boards are dotted across neighbourhoods, their branding is familiar, and their presence—both online and on the high street—can feel reassuring. There’s a perception that if an agent has more listings, they must be doing something right.

For many buyers and sellers across the UK, the excitement of agreeing a sale is quickly followed by a frustrating reality: the long wait to completion. It’s a question we hear time and time again—why does buying a home take so long? And perhaps more importantly, who is actually responsible? Data suggests one of the main factors is conveyancing.

With mortgage rates steadier and spring listings emerging, March 2026 offers buyers a balanced window before peak competition intensifies.

Moving home has long been considered one of life’s most stressful events—but recent findings suggest the experience may be doing more than just raising stress levels. It’s actively discouraging people from moving again altogether.