Step by Step Guide to Buying a House in the UK — After Your Offer Is Accepted

Quick Snapshot: What to Expect Next

Timescale: Conveyancing typically takes 12–16 weeks, depending on whether you’re in a chain. Expect updates from your solicitor, lender, and estate agent every week.

Key Moments: mortgage offer → surveys → searches & enquiries → exchange of contracts (legally binding) → completion (keys handed over) → post?completion registration.

Step by Step: After Your Offer Is Accepted

1) Don’t Just Celebrate — Sort Your Funding

Complete your mortgage application if you haven’t already. If you have an Agreement in Principle (AIP), submit the formal application promptly and provide ID, payslips, and bank statements. The lender will issue a mortgage offer once underwriting and valuation are complete.

2) Instruct a Conveyancer (Solicitor or Licensed Conveyancer)

Choose a regulated conveyancer experienced in residential purchases. They will:

• Carry out title checks

• Order searches and enquiries

• Liaise with your lender and the seller’s solicitor

• Prepare contracts and handle exchange/completion funds

Return their signed terms of business and provide proof of identity before they can act for you. Ask for a clear estimate of fees and likely disbursements upfront.

3) Arrange a Survey

Types of surveys include:

• Mortgage valuation (basic, for lender)

• HomeBuyer/Level 2 report (recommended for most homes)

• Full structural survey/Level 3 (for older or unusual properties)

A survey can uncover defects that affect price or your decision to proceed.

4) Conveyancer Orders Searches and Checks

Common searches include local authority, drainage/water, and environmental searches. These can take time and may reveal planning issues or restrictions.

5) Seller’s Paperwork & Enquiries

Your solicitor will request the seller’s property information forms (TA6/TA10) and raise enquiries regarding the property’s condition, boundaries, and planning history.

6) Mortgage Lender Valuation and Conditions

Lenders may attach conditions to their valuation (e.g., remedial work). Understand any conditions before proceeding.

7) Agree a Completion Date and Prepare to Exchange Contracts

Once all parties are satisfied (searches, enquiries, mortgage offer), solicitors agree a date for exchange and completion. At exchange, contracts become legally binding and a deposit (commonly around 10%) is paid. Do not book removals until after exchange.

8) Buildings Insurance and Practical Arrangements

Most lenders require buildings insurance from exchange. Arrange removals, notify utilities, and confirm parking or collection arrangements for moving day.

9) Final Checks and Pre?Completion Steps

Your solicitor will perform pre?completion searches, confirm final figures (purchase balance, Stamp Duty, fees), and collect cleared funds.

10) Completion Day — Paperwork and Keys

On completion, the seller receives the purchase funds, the mortgage is advanced, and keys are released. Your solicitor will notify you when you can collect them.

11) After Completion — Registration and Tax

Your solicitor will register ownership and any mortgage with HM Land Registry and submit any required Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT). Ensure your solicitor confirms deadlines are met.

12) Post-Move Practicalities

• Update your address (banks, DVLA, electoral roll)

• Set up council tax and utilities

• Keep title deeds/certificates and solicitor correspondence safe

• Consider changing locks for security

Common Delays and How to Avoid Them

• Chain breakdowns: Choose proactive conveyancers who manage the chain effectively.

• Mortgage delays: Respond promptly to lender requests and provide documents quickly.

• Search or title issues: Ask your solicitor to flag potential problems early.

Costs to Budget For

• Solicitor/conveyancing fees + disbursements (searches, Land Registry fees)

• Stamp Duty (if applicable)

• Survey fees and mortgage valuation

• Mortgage arrangement fees (if any)

• Removal costs and other moving expenses

FAQs

Q: What’s the difference between exchange and completion?
A: Exchange makes the contract legally binding. Completion is when funds are transferred, and you take possession.

Q: Can I pull out after exchange?
A: Yes, but you risk losing your deposit and may be liable for damages.

Q: How long does conveyancing take?
A: It varies. Without a chain, it can be faster; typically several weeks to a few months.

Get Expert Guidance

Buying a home is a big step. At Philip Martin Estate Agents, our experienced team can guide you through every stage and connect you with trusted solicitors and mortgage advisers. Contact us today to make your move as smooth as possible.