The UK buying process, step by step
From mortgage in principle to completion in England, and how Scotland differs.
Applies to: United Kingdom. Reviewed 2026-09-25.
Key takeaways
- In England and Wales an accepted offer is not binding. The purchase binds only at exchange of contracts.
- Until then either side can withdraw, and the seller can accept a higher offer (gazumping).
- In Scotland the seller provides a Home Report and the purchase binds earlier, when missives are concluded.
England, Wales and Northern Ireland
- Get a mortgage in principle and budget for deposit, stamp duty and fees.
- Make an offer through the agent. The offer is subject to contract.
- Instruct a solicitor or licensed conveyancer.
- Apply for the mortgage; the lender carries out a valuation.
- Commission your own survey.
- Your lawyer runs searches and raises enquiries with the seller.
- Exchange of contracts: you pay the deposit and the purchase becomes binding.
- Completion: the balance is paid, you receive the keys and your lawyer pays the stamp duty and registers you at the Land Registry.
Scotland
In Scotland the seller must provide a Home Report with a survey, energy report and questionnaire before marketing. Offers are made through a solicitor, often as "offers over" with a closing date, and the purchase binds when the missives, the exchange of letters on the terms, are concluded.
Questions to ask
- Is the home freehold or leasehold, and how long is left on the lease?
- Is there a chain of purchases and sales your purchase depends on?
Red flags
- The seller wants to skip searches or a survey to "save time".
- A long chain where someone has not yet found their next home.
Sources
- Buying or selling your home (GOV.UK)
- Home Report (mygov.scot)
- Buying a home (MoneyHelper)