This article provides an introduction to some key steps, costs and tips in connection with buying a home, from surveys to solicitor fees and timelines.
05/01/2026By Pauzible Team · Editorial Team
Buying a home is one of the biggest financial steps you will ever take. It can be exciting, stressful and confusing all at the same time. There are many moving parts involved in the process. You should be aware of the costs, legal steps, timelines and potential hidden risks. Whether you are a first-time buyer or someone who has moved homes before, knowing what to look out for is important for making the right decisions.
The Importance of a Prime Location
When buying a home, a prime location is almost more important than anything else. A prime location can, for example, mean less commuting time, good local services and the likelihood of a decent increase in the value of the property over time.
A prime location often also encompasses good schools, reliable public transport, low crime rates and easy access to shops and healthcare. Potential buyers may also look for green spaces, parking and quiet streets. If you plan to rent the property out, such factors could also be important for prospective tenants.
You may find a property in an up-and-coming area that is not yet expensive but is expected to increase in value as its popularity grows. Estate agents can offer valuable knowledge and local insight as to a prime location. It is also advisable to visit the area during the day and in the evening to gain different perspectives. For example, this may give you a good idea about noise levels and how heavy the traffic is. Researching whether there might be local developmental plans in the area that could affect future prices and the overall appeal of a property is also worth it. It is always best to do as much research as possible to factor in such factors before making a final decision to buy a property.
How Long Does It Take to Buy a House
There is no definitive answer to the question “How long does it take to buy a house?” The time to complete a property purchase is usually expected to be between eight and twelve weeks. However, this can vary depending on, for example, how quickly the conveyancing, including local authority searches, is completed and if there is a chain involved. For example, the buyer might need to sell another property before being in a financial position to be able to complete on the property that they are buying.
The process truly begins once your offer is accepted. You will need to instruct a solicitor and apply for a mortgage, if you need one. Your solicitor will carry out the relevant searches. They will also review the contract and raise inquiries with the seller’s solicitor. Your mortgage lender will carry out a valuation. If everything goes well, contracts will be exchanged and a completion date will be set.
Delays can happen if there are issues with the valuation, mortgage or searches, for example. Delays are also not uncommon if you are part of a chain. Good communication between all the parties involved is vital.
House Buying Process Step by Step
The home buying journey involves several steps. Understanding what happens at each stage will help you feel more confident and in control. Once you have a mortgage agreement in principle and have found a property you like, you make an offer through the estate agent. If the seller accepts, the legal work begins.
Next, you instruct your solicitor and arrange a survey. Your mortgage lender also begins its checks. Your solicitor carries out property searches and reviews the contract. They will also check the property’s title, including any restrictive covenants and lease terms, if applicable.
Once all the checks are completed, you will receive a report from your solicitor. If everything is in order and you decide to proceed, you will exchange contracts and pay the deposit, which is usually 10% of the purchase price. At this stage, the agreement becomes legally binding. A completion date is then agreed upon. On this date, the remaining funds are sent, and you receive the keys to your new home.
Survey Costs and Why You Need One
A house survey helps you understand the condition of the property before you buy it. A survey is not the same as a mortgage valuation. A mortgage valuation only checks that the property is worth what you are paying for it. It does not tell you if there are problems with the structure, roof or plumbing, for example.
There are different kinds of survey available, depending on how detailed you want it to be. A basic condition report is the cheapest option. It usually costs around £300. It gives you a general overview of the property’s condition but does not involve a deep inspection. A homebuyer report is more detailed and usually costs between £400 and £900. It includes damp checks, electrical issue checks and signs of structural problems, for example. A full building survey is the most detailed and is recommended for older properties. It can usually cost between £600 and £1,500, depending on the size of the property. A proper survey can save you thousands in the long run. If major problems are found, you will want to renegotiate the price. You might even walk away from the deal.
Solicitor costs
The costs of a solicitor for buying a home will include both legal fees and disbursements. Legal fees generally range between £800 and £1,500. This fee covers the work done to transfer legal ownership. Disbursements can add between £300 and £500 or more. These include local authority searches, anti-money laundering checks, Land Registry fees and stamp duty form submission, for example.
Some solicitors offer fixed-fee packages. Others charge based on a sliding scale. If you are buying with a mortgage, some lenders insist you use one of their approved solicitors. This can affect the cost and the choice you have. Make sure you get a full quote in writing before instructing a solicitor. Ask what is included in the fee.
Conclusion
Buying a property is not something to rush. You should carry out research, ask questions and make sure you are kept fully informed. A great property in a poor location may be a problem. A perfect location with hidden structural issues can be expensive to fix. You need to be prepared for both expected and unexpected costs. You should also be ready for the time it takes to proceed from offer to completion. The right professionals can make the process smoother. A good solicitor, a reliable surveyor and a helpful estate agent can reduce stress and also help protect your interests.
Do not base your decision on emotions alone. Be practical and think long-term. Consider the future value of the home and how well it fits with your needs. By understanding what to look out for before purchasing a property, you will give yourself the best chance of making a sound investment and finding a home you will be happy in.
FAQs
Q. What is the most important thing to look for when choosing a property?
A. The most important thing is probably the location. A good location, among other things, covers safety, good access to travel links, schools, shops and parks, and value growth. You should visit the area at different times of day and night to see how it feels.
Q. How much should I budget for solicitor’s fees?
A. You should budget between £800 and £1,500 for legal fees. Also, prepare for additional costs of around £300 to £500 for disbursements. Always ask for a written quote before you agree.
Q. Do I need to get a house survey done?
A. This is highly advisable. A survey tells you the condition of the property. It can reveal problems you cannot see. It helps you make an informed decision and avoid costly repairs later.
Q. How long does it usually take to buy a house?
A. Most house purchases are expected to take between eight and twelve weeks. Delays can happen, however, including if other people are involved in the buying chain. Being organised and responsive can help things move faster.
Q. What are disbursements in solicitor costs?
A. Disbursements are payments made by the solicitor to other parties. These include search fees, Land Registry fees and bank transfer fees, for example.
Q. Can I save money by not using a solicitor?
A. You must use a qualified solicitor or licensed conveyancer to transfer ownership.
Q. Is a more expensive survey always better?
A. The right survey depends on the property. Older or unusual homes often need a full building survey. Newer homes may only need a homebuyer report.
Q. What happens on completion day?
A. Your solicitor sends the final payment to the seller’s solicitor. Once the money is received, the keys are released. You can then move into your new home.
Q. Should I buy in an area that is not yet popular?
A. Buying in an up-and-coming area can be a smart move. You may get a lower price now and see strong value growth in the future.
About the author
Pauzible Team
Editorial Team
The Pauzible Team consists of finance professionals and property market specialists dedicated to reinventing home ownership and BTL financing. With deep expertise across UK real estate and innovative financial products like Equity Partnership Agreements, we provide landlords and homeowners with the insights they need to unlock equity, navigate market volatility, and build sustainable wealth through property. Our mission is to make complex property finance simpler, quicker, and more accessible for everyone.
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