Buying a Home Timeline: Step-by-Step Guide for UK Buyers

Buying a home is a major milestone, but it can be hard to know what happens when. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or moving up the ladder, having a clear understanding of the timeline helps reduce stress and prevent costly delays.

This guide walks you through the full buying journey in the UK—start to finish—so you know exactly what to expect, how long it takes, and where banks and solicitors fit into the process.

How Long Does Buying a Home Take in the UK?

The average property purchase in the UK takes 8 to 16 weeks from offer to completion. But your total journey may span 3 to 6 months once preparation, mortgage approval, and legal steps are included.

Complete Timeline for Buying a Home in the UK

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the steps and average time required:

Step 1: Get Financially Ready Before You Search

Before you even start browsing properties, you should:

• Save a deposit – At least 5% of the property value (more if possible)

• Check your credit report – Make sure it’s accurate and clean

• Calculate affordability – Use online tools to estimate how much you can borrow

Most lenders, including Halifax, Nationwide, and Santander, allow you to borrow around 4 to 4.5 times your income, depending on your expenses and credit history.

Step 2: Get a Mortgage in Principle (Agreement in Principle)

An Agreement in Principle (AIP) shows how much you could borrow and reassures estate agents that you’re a serious buyer.

• You can get one online or through a mortgage broker

• It usually takes just a few minutes to a couple of days

• No formal commitment yet, but it’s useful for house hunting

Major UK lenders like Barclays, HSBC, and NatWest offer online tools to generate AIPs instantly.

Step 3: Start Viewing Homes and Making Offers

This is often the most exciting—and emotional—stage. During this time:

• Book viewings via estate agents or portals (e.g. Rightmove or Zoopla)

• Research neighbourhoods, local schools, transport links, etc.

• Once you find the right home, make an offer (often below asking price)

Offers are usually made through the estate agent and can include conditions (like being chain-free or mortgage-approved).

Step 4: Instruct a Solicitor or Conveyancer

Once your offer is accepted:

• Choose a solicitor or licensed conveyancer to handle the legal work

• They’ll begin local authority searches, draft contracts, and liaise with the seller’s solicitor

• Expect this process to take 6 to 10 weeks, but times vary depending on chain length and responsiveness

Many lenders, such as Virgin Money or Lloyds, offer free legal packages with selected remortgage and mortgage products, but you may prefer using your own trusted solicitor.

Step 5: Submit Your Full Mortgage Application

Now it’s time to move from AIP to full application. You’ll need:

• Proof of income (payslips or SA302s for self-employed)

• Recent bank statements

• ID and proof of address

• Details of the property and solicitor

The lender will conduct a property valuation and complete underwriting before issuing a formal mortgage offer, usually within 2–4 weeks.

Step 6: Conduct Property Surveys

While your lender’s valuation confirms the value of the home, it doesn’t assess the condition. You may choose to commission one of the following:

Although not mandatory, a survey can reveal costly hidden issues—saving you from a bad investment.

Step 7: Exchange Contracts

Once all legal checks and financing are complete, you’ll exchange contracts:

• This is the point where the purchase becomes legally binding

• You pay your deposit (usually 10%)

• A completion date is set—often 1 to 2 weeks later, but it can be longer if you’re in a chain

Make sure you also arrange buildings insurance from this point, as you’re now liable for the property.

Step 8: Completion and Moving In

On the day of completion:

• Your solicitor transfers funds to the seller’s solicitor

• You receive the keys from the estate agent

• You can now move in and celebrate your new home

This is the final legal step and typically happens on a weekday, usually around midday, depending on how early the funds are transferred.

Key Tips to Avoid Delays During the Home Buying Process

1. Respond to requests quickly – Whether from your lender, broker, or solicitor

2. Keep all documents organised – Scan and email whenever possible

3. Avoid big purchases – Don’t take out new credit during your mortgage application

4. Have a backup solicitor – Some buyers face delays from overbooked legal firms

5. Stay in regular contact – Proactive communication prevents last-minute surprises

Final Thoughts: Plan Ahead and Be Patient

The UK property buying process is rarely fast—but it can be smooth if you know what to expect. A typical timeline is 3 to 6 months, but being prepared with your finances, choosing the right professionals, and staying organised can reduce stress and prevent delays.

If you’re unsure about where to start, tools like the MoneyHelper home buying planner provide free, reliable information.