Updated October 2026 · Fraser Bond
Buying · Timeline
Offer accepted to completion
Around 12–16weeks typical
Searches2–6 weeks
Mortgage2–4 weeks
Leaseholdoften slower
In short: In England, it typically takes around three to four months from an accepted offer to completion, though simple cash purchases with no chain can be much quicker and complicated leasehold chains can take longer. The main stages are instructing solicitors, searches, the mortgage offer, enquiries, exchange and completion. Most delays come from chains, slow leasehold management packs and unanswered enquiries. Instructing a solicitor straight away and having documents ready helps the most.
The stages
1
Offer acceptedInstruct solicitors and apply for your mortgage.
2
Searches and surveyLocal authority, water and environmental searches; book a survey.
3
EnquiriesYour solicitor raises questions on the title and leasehold pack.
4
ExchangeContracts become binding and the deposit is paid.
5
CompletionFunds transfer and you get the keys.
Frequently asked questions
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Can I move in on exchange?
Usually not; keys are released on completion.
How long between exchange and completion?
Often one to four weeks, by agreement.
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