Budget and search
Establish the deposit, buying costs and comfortable monthly payment. Discuss finance before becoming committed to a property. Your own survey needs and the legal tenure should form part of the buying decision.
Offer and professional appointments
Once a price is agreed, a solicitor or licensed conveyancer starts legal work and searches. The mortgage application and lender valuation run alongside that process. A survey can investigate condition more deeply than a lender valuation.
Resolve the conditions
A mortgage offer may contain conditions that must be satisfied. Legal questions about title, lease, planning or building safety can also need time. Keep your adviser informed of changes to employment, borrowing or purchase price.
Legal commitment and completion
In England and Wales, exchange of contracts normally makes the transaction binding and sets the completion date. On completion, funds are transferred and possession follows the contract. Your solicitor deals with applicable tax returns and registration.
Use the right jurisdiction
Scotland uses a different legal process, including missives and commonly a Home Report. Northern Ireland also has its own procedure. Take advice from a conveyancer qualified for the location rather than assuming identical milestones.
Further reading: MoneyHelper: mortgages and homebuying. Content updated 17 September 2026. General information; availability depends on the individual case.