In this age of technology, one would have thought that the process would have been speeded up and streamlined, but we are talking about solicitors.

They only seem happy when making money by appearing to be busy by shuffling paper about.

We accepted an offer on our parents house 4 weeks ago

A google search gleaned some information, that from offer to exchange of contracts is about 6 weeks, but could be more or could be less.  Very helpful.

Anyone been through the process, and if so, how long did it take.

I appreciate that every transaction is different.  We have no chain on either side.