# How long from mortgage offer to completion?

> Quick answer · Last updated 4 July 2026

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## In short

Typically 8–14 weeks from formal mortgage offer to completion in England and Wales — conveyancing searches, survey, exchange of contracts and a fixed completion date. Chains and leasehold issues often push the total purchase to 12–16 weeks from offer accepted.

The mortgage offer is only one step. Your solicitor orders searches (local authority, drainage, environmental), reviews the title, and reports to you. A survey may trigger renegotiation.

Exchange of contracts makes the deal binding and sets completion day — often one to four weeks after exchange. On completion, mortgage funds transfer and you get keys.

See our mortgage offer to completion guide and Stamp Duty calculator. First-time buyers should read the step-by-step buyer guide.

## Related

- [Mortgage offer to completion guide](https://moneyguide.org.uk/mortgages/mortgage-offer-to-completion/)
- [What is conveyancing?](https://moneyguide.org.uk/answers/what-is-conveyancing/)
- [Stamp Duty calculator](https://moneyguide.org.uk/tools/stamp-duty-calculator/)

## Primary source

gov.uk/buying-a-home

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Independent UK money guidance from [Money Guide](https://moneyguide.org.uk). Information only — not regulated financial advice.