Home Buyer Checklist UK — From First Search to Getting the Keys

Phase 1: Getting Started

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Work out your budget (income, savings, debts)

Get a mortgage Agreement in Principle (AIP)

Tip: Most estate agents require this before accepting viewings

Research areas — commute, schools, amenities, crime

Set up property alerts on Rightmove, Zoopla, OnTheMarket

Understand stamp duty and factor it into your budget

Tip: First-time buyers pay no SDLT on the first £300k

Start saving proof of funds, ID, and address history

Check your credit score and fix any issues

Phase 2: Found a Property

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View the property (ideally twice, at different times of day)

Run a Viven Buyer Report — covers flood risk, crime, EPC, price history, council tax, broadband, planning applications, and comparable sales

Check lease length if leasehold (under 80 years = red flag)

Tip: Extending a lease under 80 years is significantly more expensive

Note any issues: damp, cracks, roof condition, boundaries

Ask the agent about the seller's situation and chain

Phase 3: Offer Accepted

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Instruct a solicitor/conveyancer

Tip: Get 3 quotes — expect £1,000–£2,000 for a standard purchase

Submit full mortgage application

Book a survey (Level 2 Homebuyer or Level 3 Full Building)

Provide ID and proof of funds to your solicitor

Ask your solicitor about indemnity insurance if needed

Request the fixtures and fittings list

Confirm your deposit amount and source

Phase 4: Pre-Exchange

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Review the survey report — negotiate on issues if needed

Receive and review your mortgage offer

Solicitor raises enquiries with the seller's solicitor

Review local authority search results

Review environmental and drainage search results

Arrange buildings insurance (required from exchange)

Review the contract and transfer deed

Sign contract and transfer deposit to your solicitor

Agree a completion date with all parties

Phase 5: Exchange to Completion

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Exchange contracts — you are now legally committed

Tip: Buildings insurance must be in place from this point

Transfer remaining funds to your solicitor

Arrange removals and redirect your post

Read meters on the day of completion

Completion day — solicitor confirms funds received

Collect keys from the estate agent

Update your address with banks, DVLA, GP, employer

Solicitor registers you at HM Land Registry