House buying chain of 5 parties - any chance to complete before end of this year?

[meadowquark]

I just need your views really. I am selling my house. I received an offer from someone who is selling their flat to FTB. I would like to offer on the house where the vendor has to buy somewhere else with no chain. Five parties in total. I need to be in for primary school admissions, otherwise it is almost pointless.

What do you think?

We had four parties in our chain and we were aiming for completion in ten weeks. This was possible but the chap at the bottom of the chain had a change in circumstances so had to sell his property which added four weeks to it, so five parties were ready in 14 weeks.

State from the beginning that you'd really like to complete by early December (giving you 2/3 weeks leaway if it can't be done that quick). If no one objects tell your solicitor what your hoping for so at least they can keep things moving for you.

Yes, if all parties are committed. We did a chain of 4 in 8 weeks.

Leasehold transactions take longer as enquiries have to be made of the managing agents and/or freeholder as well as the seller's solicitor and if there is a lease extension required that will take longer too. It can be done but no-one knows what problems can arise until they arise IFSWIM.

yes, if all mean what they say, get their mortgages, no-one dies or loses a job and those who say 'we'll go into rental' mean it.

Certainly possibly if everyone is committed.

The problem arises if the chain breaks.

Thank you very much . I have now put an offer and will take the risk.