Buying
How long does it take to buy a house?
1 min read · Updated
The short answer
Usually 8 to 14 weeks from an accepted offer to completion, as a first-time buyer with no chain. Leasehold homes, slow searches and long chains above you can make it longer.
The main stages
- Offer accepted. You instruct a solicitor and apply for your mortgage.
- The lender values the home and, if all is well, makes a mortgage offer.
- Your solicitor does searches, reads the contract and raises questions with the seller's solicitor.
- You get a survey, if you're having one.
- Exchange of contracts. You pay the deposit and it becomes binding.
- Completion. The money moves and you get the keys, often a week or two after exchange.
How to keep it moving
- Pick a solicitor before you offer, so they can start the day it's accepted.
- Have your documents ready: ID, payslips, bank statements and any gift letter.
- Answer questions from your solicitor and lender the same day if you can.
- Ask for updates every week or so. Polite chasing helps.
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A guide, not financial or legal advice. Rules and rates change, so check with your lender, broker or solicitor. Where our numbers come from.