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Buying a Home: Timeline from Offer to Ownership
October, 2025

Buying a Home: Timeline from Offer to Ownership

Embarking on the journey to buy your first home? You might be wondering just how long the process takes. While the timeline can vary, having a rough idea can help you prepare and stay in control.

1. Mortgage in Principle (1–2 Days): Before you dive into house hunting, securing a mortgage in principle is a smart move. It shows how much you can borrow and proves you're a serious buyer.

2. Finding a Property (1–8 Weeks+): This stage can be swift or stretch over months, depending on the market, your budget, and how specific your requirements are. It's a time of exploration and excitement as you envision your future home.

3. Making an Offer (1–7 Days): Once you've found the perfect home, it's time to submit an offer. If accepted, you move forward. If not, there might be some negotiation involved.

4. Conveyancing and Mortgage Application (2–6 Weeks): Now the legal and financial work begins. You'll formally apply for your mortgage while your solicitor carries out property searches and reviews the legal title. It's a critical stage where attention to detail is key.

5. Surveys and Valuation (1–3 Weeks): A surveyor will inspect the property, and your mortgage lender will conduct a valuation to ensure the home is worth what you're paying. This step ensures peace of mind regarding your investment.

6. Exchange to Completion (1–4 Weeks): Once everything is in place, contracts are exchanged, and a completion date is set. On completion day, the keys are handed over, and the property is officially yours. It's the moment you've been waiting for!

Overall Timeline: 8–16 Weeks (on average): Delays can happen, especially if you're part of a chain. Staying organised, responding promptly to requests, and keeping in close contact with your solicitor and mortgage adviser can help keep things on track.

Patience and preparation are your best allies. Understanding the steps involved helps you navigate the process with confidence — and gets you moving in sooner. If you're ready to start your journey, why not reach out to us at Bond Residential? We're here to guide you every step of the way.

 



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