Home Buying Process in uk
CIPS Certification By National Association of realtor
Your Step-by-Step Guide to Buying a Home with Confidence
Buying a home can feel overwhelming—but with the right support, it doesn’t have to be. At Skyline Mortgage Consultants, we make the process simpler, clearer, and far less stressful. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you understand what to expect.
The journey can take 8 to 12 weeks on average, but that timeline can vary depending on your circumstances. From checking your credit score to receiving your keys, there are several moving parts: solicitors, lenders, estate agents, surveys, and contracts. That’s why having the right guidance from day one can make all the difference.
Financial Preparation
Before you start viewing properties, it’s important to know what you can afford.
Check Your Credit Score to Understand your Borrowing Power
Work out your budget, including deposit, potential monthly payments, and additional costs.
Get a mortgage agreement in principle (AIP) – It helps you with this to show sellers you're a serious buyer.
Start Your Property Search
With your AIP ready, it’s time to find your dream home.
Explore listings on platforms like Rightmove and Zoopla
Register with local estate agents to get early access to properties
Arrange and attend viewings to explore your options
Make an Offer
Found “the one”? Time to make your move.
Submit your offer via the estate agent
Be prepared for negotiations
Once accepted, the property is marked “Sold STC” (Subject to Contract)
Hire the Right Professionals
The right support makes all the difference.
Solicitor or conveyancer – handles all legal aspects
Surveyor – optional, but recommended to check for structural issues
We’ll also happily recommend trusted professionals we’ve worked with over the years.
Finalise Your Mortgage
Now that your offer is accepted, it’s time to secure your mortgage
Submit your full mortgage application
The lender will conduct a valuation of the property
Once approved, you'll receive a formal mortgage offer
The Conveyancing Process
This is where the legal work happens.
Your solicitor carries out property searches
Contracts are drafted and reviewed
Any legal questions are resolved
A completion date is agreed upon
Exchange Contracts
You’re almost there!
Both parties sign and exchange contracts
You’ll pay your deposit (usually 5–10%)
The sale becomes legally binding
Completion Day
The big day!
Your solicitor transfers the remaining funds
You receive the keys to your new home
Stamp duty (if applicable) is paid
Stamp duty (if The property is registered with the Land Registry) is paid
After You Move In
Just a few more things to wrap up your move:
Notify utility companies, council tax, and broadband providers
You’ll pay your depoUpdate your address with your bank, employer, GP, etc.sit (usually 5–10%)
Your solicitor will send your title deeds and ownership confirmation
What are you waiting for?
Buying a home can feel like a lot but you don’t have to figure it all out on your own. Whether you're just getting started or stuck somewhere in the process, we're here to help. From mortgage advice to connecting you with trusted professionals, we’re just a message or call away.