Buying your first home (or even your second) can feel like learning an entirely new language — chain-free, completion dates, gazumping… what does it all mean?
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you’re not alone.
The truth is, most guides overcomplicate things. That’s why this article walks you through the home buying process step-by-step — no jargon, just real talk.
By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly what to expect, how to prepare, and the mistakes to avoid as a UK home buyer.
Step 1: Figure Out Your Budget (and Stick to It)
Before you even scroll through listings or book your first viewing, you need to know what you can realistically afford.
Budgeting checklist:
- Deposit: Usually at least 5% to 10% of the property’s value.
- Mortgage affordability: Based on your income, debts, and credit score.
- Extra costs: These include Stamp Duty, solicitor fees, surveys, removals, and renovations.
Example: Buying a £250,000 Property
- 10% deposit = £25,000
- Stamp Duty (first-time buyer) = £0 (as of May 2025, up to £425,000 is exempt)
- Legal and survey costs = approx. £2,000
- Mortgage required = £225,000
Pro Tip: Always keep an emergency fund of £3,000–£5,000 to cover unexpected costs. Things like boiler issues, damp repair, or moving day surprises can eat into your budget.
Tool to use: A mortgage calculator gives a rough idea of monthly repayments — a must before house hunting.
Step 2: Get a Mortgage Agreement in Principle (AIP)
Once your budget is solid, the next step in the home buying process is to get a Mortgage Agreement in Principle.
This is essentially a lender saying, “We’d probably lend you X amount based on the information you’ve provided.”
Why this matters:
- Credibility: Shows estate agents and sellers you’re serious.
- Speed: Sellers often prioritise buyers with an AIP.
- Clarity: You’ll know what price range to target.
Most major banks offer AIPs online within a few hours.
Real Buyer Tip: A buyer in Leeds had her offer accepted over four others simply because she showed her AIP during the first viewing.
Step 3: House Hunt Like a Pro and Make a Strategic Offer
This is where excitement meets strategy.
House hunting tips:
- Book viewings quickly — quality homes move fast.
- View properties at different times of day.
- Compare neighbourhoods: schools, commute, amenities.
- Watch for red flags: mould, damp, and roof issues.
When you find a property you love, it’s time to make an offer.
Offer strategy:
- Offer slightly under asking if the market is slow.
- Offer the asking price or slightly above in competitive markets.
- Highlight that you have an AIP and can move quickly.
Example: In Manchester, a young couple beat 12 other offers not because they were the highest, but because they committed to a six-week exchange timeline.
Step 4: The Home Buying Process Gets Real — Apply for Mortgage and Start Legal Work
Your offer is accepted — congratulations. But this is where the home buying process becomes legal and financial.
What happens next:
- Full mortgage application: Submit income, ID, and bank statements.
- Hire a solicitor or conveyancer: They manage contracts, searches, and legal compliance.
- Book a property survey: This protects you from buying a home with hidden problems.
Survey types:
- Mortgage valuation: Basic lender check.
- Homebuyer report: Good for newer homes.
- Full structural survey: Recommended for older or unusual properties.
Tip: A £400–£800 survey could save you thousands by exposing major issues.
Step 5: Exchange Contracts and Pay Your Deposit
Your solicitor has completed all searches. Your mortgage is approved. Both parties are ready.
Here’s what happens:
- You and the seller sign legally binding contracts.
- You pay your deposit (typically 10% of the property price).
- A completion date is agreed — usually 1–2 weeks after exchange.
Important to know:
- If you back out after this, you lose your deposit.
- If the seller pulls out, they owe you compensation.
Tip: Ensure building insurance is active from the day of exchange, not completion. Some mortgage providers require it.
Step 6: Completion Day — Collect the Keys and Move In
The money has been transferred. The contracts are complete. You are officially a homeowner.
On completion day:
- Your solicitor transfers the funds.
- You receive confirmation.
- You collect the keys, typically from the estate agent.
- You can move in.
Don’t forget to:
- Set up the council tax and utilities.
- Redirect your post.
- Double-check that your insurance is active.
The Home Buying Process Timeline: From Offer to Move-In
| Step | Estimated Timeframe |
|---|---|
| Offer Accepted | 0 Days |
| Mortgage Application | 1–7 Days |
| Solicitor Begins Work | 1–3 Days |
| Property Searches | 2–4 Weeks |
| Survey Completed | 1–3 Weeks |
| Exchange Contracts | 6–12 Weeks |
| Completion | Same day or within 2 weeks |
Average time from offer to keys: 8–12 weeks
Common First-Time Buyer Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)
- Delaying the AIP: Always get this before booking viewings.
- Skipping surveys: A small upfront cost prevents big future repairs.
- Forgetting hidden costs: Budget at least 5%–10% beyond the deposit.
- Overborrowing: Borrow what you can comfortably repay, not the maximum offered.
- Being slow with paperwork: It can cost you the house if others move faster.
Bonus Tips for Navigating the Home Buying Process With Confidence
- View midweek if possible — less competition.
- Talk to neighbours before buying.
- Ask sellers why they’re moving — it can reveal urgency.
- Avoid new loans or big purchases before completion — it may affect your mortgage.
Useful UK Resources
These sources are regularly updated with trustworthy, UK-specific advice.
Final Thoughts: You’re More Ready Than You Think
The home buying process doesn’t have to be complicated or stressful. When broken into clear steps, the journey becomes far more manageable.
Here’s a recap:
- Set your budget
- Get your AIP
- Hunt smart, offer smarter
- Complete the legal and mortgage tasks
- Exchange contracts
- Move in and enjoy your new home
Follow this roadmap and you’ll avoid costly delays and move forward with confidence.
Now you know the process — it’s time to find the keys to your next chapter.
