Research from Moverly found that 51% of homebuyers aiming to complete before 1st April 2025 experienced delays.
The key causes were solicitor delays and a lack of material information.
The survey sought insights from homebuyers across England who had their offer accepted in the past three months.
The main reason cited was lack of proactivity from solicitors, followed by issues related to sellers not providing necessary material information.
The complexity of property chains also contributed to the delays.
Due to these setbacks, 82% of respondents expressed concerns about completing before 1st April and facing higher Stamp Duty costs.
While 74% plan to proceed with their purchase despite the increased costs, 12% indicated they would lower their offer price, and 9% said they would need to reconsider their mortgage options.
Additionally, 5% mentioned they might pull out of their purchase if the deadline is missed.
Gemma Young, CEO of Moverly, said: “Nothing grinds the market to a halt quite like a stamp duty deadline, as heightened buyer activity puts a serious strain on the process of purchasing, particularly with respect to the conveyancing process.
“So it’s no surprise that half of those who have had an offer accepted since the Autumn Budget are now experiencing delays with the progression of their purchase and this number is only likely to climb over the coming months.
Young added: “Whilst a lack of proactivity from solicitors is cited as the key reason for these delays, the reality is that they are simply struggling with the increased level of demand for their services.
“Interestingly, a lack of material information on the side of sellers is also a key factor and, if addressed, would go a long way in reducing the strain on solicitors during the conveyancing process.
“For homebuyers hoping to find a property in the next three months, a seller with comprehensive material information is key, as this will put them in a considerably stronger position when it comes to progressing a purchase through to completion.”
