Estate agents have limited control over the biggest causes of delays in property transactions, according to new research from Rightmove.

The property portal found that conveyancing was the most commonly cited cause of hold-ups. More than a third of home movers (37%) identified it as the biggest source of delays.

Survey or valuation issues were cited by 15% of respondents, while 11% pointed to delays with searches.

A further 11% experienced delays after another party pulled out and had to be replaced. Chain-related problems accounted for 9%.

By comparison, just 5% of respondents blamed poor buyer qualification.

Rightmove has published the findings as it calls for more estate and letting agents to contribute to its home mover education programme.

The initiative uses input from independent agents to provide guidance to prospective buyers and sellers. Rightmove said it also aims to improve consumer understanding of the role agents play during transactions.

The research comes as the property industry considers how to speed up transactions and reduce fall-throughs.

The government’s Home Buying and Selling Reform Roadmap has put greater focus on improving the process. Rightmove has also been holding webinars and events with agents and other industry figures as part of the debate.

Christian Balshen, director of agency partnerships at Rightmove, said: “Many of the biggest causes of delays sit outside of their [estate agents] direct control.
“The work estate agents do is often underestimated because much of what they deliver happens behind the scenes. We want to help the public better understand the value agents provide and the vital role they play in helping people move home.”
“We’re keen to hear from more agents who want to share their knowledge and experiences,” he added. “We’re committed to championing the vital role agents play in the property market.”