1. Work out the cash you can use
Set a deposit budget after allowing for legal fees, property tax, a survey and moving costs. Keep an emergency reserve. If family is helping, clarify whether the money is a gift or a loan and keep the source-of-funds evidence.
2. Set a monthly budget
List income after deductions and all commitments, then include council tax, utilities, insurance, maintenance and service charges. A lender’s maximum borrowing figure is not the same as your comfortable payment. Test a higher rate as well as your starting illustration.
3. Discuss an agreement in principle
An agreement in principle indicates what a lender might consider using initial information. It can involve a credit search. It is not a binding offer and does not confirm that the property is acceptable.
4. Make the offer and appoint professionals
Once a price is agreed, appoint a solicitor and discuss the appropriate survey. The lender’s valuation protects its lending decision and is not a substitute for your own assessment of condition.
5. Apply, review and complete
Provide the requested evidence accurately and respond to queries. Read the mortgage offer, fees, early repayment charges and insurance needs. Your solicitor manages the legal commitment and completion. The process differs in Scotland, so take jurisdiction-specific advice.
Further reading: MoneyHelper: mortgages and homebuying. Content reviewed 9 September 2026. General information; availability depends on the individual case.