Mortgage offer to completion: the UK homebuying timeline
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Quick answer: From mortgage offer to completion typically takes 8–14 weeks in England and Wales — conveyancing searches, surveys, exchange of contracts and a fixed completion date. Exchange makes the deal legally binding; completion is when you get the keys.
After your offer is accepted and a mortgage in principle becomes a formal offer, the legal work begins. Delays usually come from searches, lease issues, survey problems or chains — not from the lender alone.
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Read the full mortgages & first homes guide →Quick answer: Offer to completion timeline →Primary source: www.gov.uk/buying-a-home
After the mortgage offer
Your solicitor receives the lender's offer pack and reviews title deeds, leases and restrictions. Local authority, drainage and environmental searches run — typically two to six weeks depending on council speed.
A survey (Level 2 or 3) may reveal defects that renegotiate price or require retention. Your lender's valuation is for the lender, not a full structural survey.
Exchange and completion
Exchange makes the contract legally binding — both sides pay a deposit and agree a completion date, usually one to four weeks later. Pulling out after exchange is costly.
On completion, your solicitor transfers mortgage funds and your deposit to the seller's solicitor. You pay Stamp Duty Land Tax (or LBTT/LTT in Scotland/Wales) and register ownership at HM Land Registry.
What slows things down
Property chains: your seller may be waiting on their purchase. Bridging finance sometimes breaks a chain but is expensive.
Leasehold issues: short leases, high ground rent or missing management packs delay mortgage offers. Freehold is usually simpler.
New-build delays: if the property is not built, completion tracks build stage — mortgage offers may need refreshing.
Common questions
Can I move completion date after exchange?
Only by mutual agreement. Unilateral delay can breach contract and forfeit deposit.
When do I pay Stamp Duty?
File and pay within 14 days of completion in England and Northern Ireland. Your solicitor usually handles this.
What insurance do I need at exchange?
Buildings insurance is normally required from exchange on the property you are buying. Contents cover starts when you move in.