Getting your offer accepted is just the beginning. From instructing a solicitor and securing your mortgage with support from Hello Mortgage, to surveys, searches, exchange and completion, this guide walks first-time buyers through every stage of the conveyancing process. Clear, simple and practical, it explains what to expect and how to move from accepted offer to collecting your keys with confidence.
Getting your offer accepted as a first-time buyer is a huge milestone. After weeks or even months of searching, viewings and negotiations, finally securing the property you love feels incredible.
But what happens next?
The conveyancing process can feel confusing and, at times, overwhelming. Even experienced buyers find it complex. The key is understanding each step and knowing what to expect.
Once the seller accepts your offer, the estate agent will issue a memorandum of sale. This document confirms the agreed price and any conditions attached to the sale.
It includes details of:
This document is not legally binding, but it formally starts the conveyancing process.
If you are purchasing with a mortgage, now is the time to complete your full mortgage application. Your lender will arrange a valuation to confirm the property is worth the agreed price.
As Estatio is a sister company of Hello Mortgage, a whole-of-market mortgage broker, you can benefit from access to a wide range of lenders and products, alongside expert guidance throughout your property purchase.
There are three possible outcomes:• The valuation matches the agreed price• The valuation is lower than expected• The lender identifies issues requiring further investigation
If the valuation is lower than expected, you may need to renegotiate the price or increase your deposit. Once the lender is satisfied, you will receive a formal mortgage offer, typically valid for six months.
The lender’s valuation protects the lender, not you. That is why arranging your own survey is strongly recommended.
Common survey types include:
For many first-time buyers purchasing a modern or standard property, a Level 2 Homebuyer report is usually suitable. Older or unusual properties may require a more detailed Level 3 survey.
If the survey highlights issues such as damp, structural movement or roof problems, you can:
Conveyancing is the legal process of transferring ownership of the property to you. Your solicitor will:
Searches may include:
These checks ensure there are no hidden legal or environmental issues, such as planning restrictions or flood risks.
Once searches are complete, your solicitor will raise enquiries with the seller’s solicitor to clarify any concerns.
This may include questions about:
When all enquiries are resolved and your mortgage offer is in place, you will be ready to move towards exchange.
Exchange is the point at which the purchase becomes legally binding.
At exchange:
After exchange, neither party can withdraw without significant financial penalties.
For many first-time buyers, this is when it truly starts to feel real.
There is usually a short period between exchange and completion. During this time, you should:
Your solicitor will prepare a final completion statement confirming the remaining balance payable.
Completion day is when ownership officially transfers to you.
Your solicitor sends the remaining funds to the seller’s solicitor. Once the receipt is confirmed, the estate agent releases the keys, and you can move into your new home.
You are officially a homeowner.
For first-time buyers, the time between offer acceptance and completion can feel like a long wait filled with paperwork, calls and unfamiliar terminology. That is completely normal.
Each stage exists to protect you and ensure your new home is a secure investment. With the right guidance and clear communication, the process becomes far more manageable and far less intimidating.
Before you know it, you will be collecting the keys to your very first home.
If you are buying your first home and want clear, straightforward support throughout the process, the Estatio team is here to help.
Call us on 0800 779 7791 or email hello@estatio.co.uk and let us guide you from accepted offer to moving day with confidence.
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