Buying or selling a home is one of life’s biggest decisions. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or moving up the property ladder, the process can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve created this straightforward guide to help you understand every stage – from choosing an estate agent to turning the key in your new front door.
1. Deciding to Move
Everything starts with a decision. Whether you’re upsizing, downsizing, or getting onto the property ladder for the first time, take time to assess your finances and goals. Speak with a mortgage adviser early to understand your budget and get a mortgage in principle.
Key steps:
Check your credit score and financial position.
Research areas you’d like to live in.
Speak to a mortgage broker or lender.
Consider your priorities: schools, commute, amenities.
2. Choosing and Working with an Estate Agent
An estate agent helps you sell or buy a property. For sellers, they’ll market your home and arrange viewings. For buyers, they can help you find suitable properties.
Tips:
Choose a local agent with a strong track record.
Ask about fees, marketing approach, and average time to sell.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate on fees.
As a buyer, register with several agents to widen your search.
3. Making or Accepting an Offer
Once you’ve found a buyer or a home you love, the next step is the offer. Offers are usually made “subject to contract”, which means nothing is legally binding yet.
Buyers: Ensure your offer reflects the condition and market value.
Sellers: Be realistic, but also firm if you know your property’s worth.
Once accepted, instruct a solicitor as soon as possible.
4. Engaging a Solicitor or Conveyancer
This is where Marlborough Law can help. Your solicitor handles the legal transfer of ownership – known as conveyancing. Trying to manage this yourself risks delays, legal issues, and costly mistakes.
What your solicitor will do:
Conduct local authority and environmental searches.
Review contracts and raise any concerns.
Handle exchange of contracts and completion.
Transfer funds and register ownership with the Land Registry.
Why use a local firm like Marlborough Law?
We’re accessible, experienced, and work closely with local agents and professionals.
Our team keeps you informed, avoids legal jargon, and works to smooth out delays.
5. Survey and Valuation
If you’re buying with a mortgage, your lender will require a valuation. You should also arrange a separate home survey to uncover any structural issues.
Types of surveys:
Mortgage valuation (basic)
HomeBuyer Report (suitable for most properties)
Building Survey (recommended for older or unusual properties)
6. Mortgage Finalisation and Insurance
Once the survey is complete and your solicitor is progressing with legal checks, your mortgage offer will be confirmed.
Checklist:
Review and sign mortgage offer.
Arrange buildings insurance (required by your lender).
Consider life or income protection policies.
7. Exchange of Contracts
This is the legal point of no return. Your solicitor will ensure both parties sign identical contracts. A deposit (usually 10%) is paid by the buyer, and a completion date is fixed.
8. Completion Day
This is moving day! The rest of the purchase money is transferred, and keys are handed over.
From this point:
You legally own the property.
Your solicitor registers your ownership with the Land Registry.
Time to celebrate!
9. Practical Moving Details
Don’t forget the practical tasks that come with moving:
Moving checklist:
Book a removal company (ideally 2-3 weeks in advance).
Pack well in advance, labelling boxes clearly.
Notify utility providers, council tax, broadband, etc.
Redirect your post via Royal Mail.
Update your address with banks, HMRC, and your GP.
How Long Does It All Take?
The entire process can take 8–14 weeks from offer to completion – but this varies based on the chain, surveys, and legal issues. Here’s a rough guide:
Decision and mortgage agreement: 1–2 weeks
Property search and offer: 2–6 weeks
Legal work and mortgage finalisation: 4–8 weeks
Exchange to completion: 1–2 weeks
How Marlborough Law Can Support You
At Marlborough Law, we’re here to guide you from the moment you decide to move until you’re comfortably settled in your new home. As a local, approachable law firm, we combine professional legal expertise with the warmth and care you’d expect from a community-based service.
We take the stress out of conveyancing – giving you clear timelines, responsive communication, and full transparency on fees. Whether you’re buying your first home or selling a family house, we’re on your side every step of the way.
Contact us today to book a free initial consultation – and let us help make your next move a smooth one.
