The answer from your solicitor is very strange. If they are too busy - tough. You should of been told this at the time of engaging their use. Remember you won't be given discount for been messed about. In the terms of a sale of a property, most of the legal work is done at exchange time. The completion date is normally agreed between the vendor and the purchaser -simple as that. I have seen circumstances where then exchange and completion have occurred on the same day. Remember, you are paying your solicitor - they aren't paying you. If you are unable to get a reply or they are messing about refer the matter to the Law Society. Why. Oh Why are people afraid to ask and demand their legal eagles. Get ALL answers in writing.