Accepted offer subject to sale + slow solicitor - tips?

[Goldenape08]

So we are in a long chain - x2 above us, us and another party below us. We accepted their offer on our house but they still need to sell their property, hopefully to FTB as it’s a small flat.

Any tips on how to keep on top of this chain? Our solicitor is painfulllllly slow. She received the offer last Friday and has not said anything. Is it normal for solicitors to not say anything unless they must? I’m getting a bit jumpy with this lack of communication considering it’s such a long chain. AIBU to expect her to update us on things like when our buyers put property on market, when they secure offer etc?

Thanks

>AIBU to expect her to update us on things like when our buyers put property on market, when they secure offer etc?

Wrong person. It’s the various estate agents jobs to keep all parties informed on what’s going on with these things. Make sure you stay in touch with them and ask for updates.

Have I understood this correctly? Your chain isn't even complete as your 'buyer' can't actually proceed as they haven't sold their flat? No point in chasing anyone at this point then. Why have you accepted an offer that isn't proceedable? It's the same as not having an offer if they can't actually buy. Speak to them and go back on the market until you find someone who is in a position to proceed.

I wonder if the OP might be in Scotland, as there the solicitor performs a slightly different role compared to the process in England?

In any case the chain is incomplete, until it is, which could potentially be weeks or even months away, it's not worth panicking about a great deal.

@rainingsnoring that is correct. We were in the same position as them before we went on the market. We accepted because it was the only offer we had in two weeks and wanted to secure it. My understanding is that this situation is quite commonplace here (Scotland). Buyers often make offers without having yet sold. When this happens, the sellers’ property goes off the market.

@Mildura correct, we are in Scotland. Sounds like I should sit tight for now then!

I see. I'm afraid I've never bought or sold in Scotland so don't really know how your system works.