The Complete Buyer's Guide

Buying a home is likely the biggest purchase you'll ever make. This guide walks you through every stage of the UK process.

Step 1 — Know your budget

Check how much you can borrow — typically 4–4.5x income — and remember the extras: stamp duty, solicitor fees, survey costs and moving expenses.

Step 2 — Get a mortgage in principle

A decision in principle takes minutes, costs nothing and shows sellers you mean business. A whole-of-market broker can access deals you'll never find on comparison sites.

Step 3 — Search and view

Register with local agents — the best homes often go to registered buyers before they reach the portals. View twice: once for the heart, once for the head.

Step 4 — Make an offer

Offers are made through the estate agent. Be clear about your position: deposit, mortgage in principle, chain status. In England, offers aren't legally binding until exchange.

Step 5 — Conveyancing

Instruct a solicitor or licensed conveyancer immediately after your offer is accepted. Searches, enquiries and the contract process typically take 8–12 weeks.

Step 6 — Survey

A valuation tells the lender it's safe; a survey tells you it's sound. RICS Level 2 suits most modern homes; Level 3 for older or unusual properties.

Step 7 — Exchange and completion

Exchange makes it legally binding — you'll pay your deposit and agree a completion date. On completion day, funds transfer and you collect the keys.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Falling in love before checking the lease length (under 80 years gets expensive)
• Forgetting buildings insurance is needed from exchange, not completion
• Stretching to the max — leave headroom for rate rises and life