Buying a home is one of life’s biggest milestones. It is exciting, emotional, and sometimes a little overwhelming. At S J Smith Estate Agents, we are here to guide you through every stage. Whether you are a first-time buyer or moving up the property ladder, understanding the journey from viewing to completion can help everything run more smoothly.
Here is our simple guide to what happens along the way.
Step 1: Arranging and Attending a Viewing
Before you fall in love with a property online, it is important to book a viewing in person. Photos can only show you so much. Visiting the property yourself lets you get a feel for the space, the layout, and the local area.
Step 2: Making an Offer
Once you have found the home you want, the next step is to make an offer through the estate agent. Be ready to provide proof of funds or a Mortgage Agreement in Principle so the seller knows you are serious.
Your offer might be accepted straight away, it could be rejected, or you may get a counter-offer. This is all part of the negotiation process.
Step 3: Instructing a Solicitor
When your offer is accepted, you will need to appoint a conveyancing solicitor. They will handle all the legal work for you, which includes checking the property’s ownership and title deeds, arranging searches with the local authority, and preparing or reviewing the contract.
Step 4: Arranging Your Mortgage
If you have not done so already, now is the time to finalise your mortgage application. Your lender will arrange a valuation to confirm the property is worth the agreed price.
Tip: Respond to any requests for documents quickly to help avoid delays.
Step 5: Survey and Searches
Your solicitor will order local authority, drainage, and environmental searches. You may also choose to arrange a homebuyer survey or a full structural survey to check for any hidden issues.
While this can feel like an extra cost, it is a good way to avoid unexpected repair bills after you move in.
Step 6: Exchange of Contracts
Once all the checks are complete, you and the seller will sign and exchange contracts. At this stage, the sale becomes legally binding. You will usually pay a deposit, often around 10 percent of the purchase price.
Step 7: Completion Day
This is the big day. Your solicitor transfers the remaining funds to the seller’s solicitor and once the payment is confirmed, you will get the keys. Your new home is officially yours.
A Few Things to Remember
- Keep in touch with our Sales Progressor Simon and your solicitor throughout the process
- Respond quickly to any requests for paperwork
- Budget for additional costs such as Stamp Duty, solicitor fees and removals
Your Move Made Simple
At S J Smith Estate Agents, we are here to make buying your new home as smooth and stress free as possible. From helping you find your dream property to keeping things moving right up to completion, we will be with you every step of the way.
Thinking about moving? Contact our friendly team today to start your journey.