Congratulations — your offer’s been accepted on your future new home. It’s a big milestone, but before you rush off to buy curtains or book the removals van, here’s what needs to happen next.
1. The sale agreement is drawn up
The seller’s estate agent will prepare a sale agreement — sometimes called a memorandum of sale — and send a copy to everyone involved.
This document confirms the property address, the price agreed, the names and addresses of both buyer and seller, and other key details that keep the sale on track.
2. Finalise your mortgage
If you already have a mortgage in principle, now’s the time to contact your lender or broker. They’ll guide you through the next steps and arrange for a mortgage valuation to confirm the property’s worth.
3. Arrange a surveyor and conveyancer
A survey isn’t a legal requirement, but it’s a wise move. It provides an independent view of the property’s structure and condition, highlighting any issues that might need attention or renegotiation.
You’ll also need a solicitor or licensed conveyancer to handle the legal side of the purchase — known as conveyancing. They’ll manage contracts, liaise with the seller’s solicitor, and ensure all searches are completed.
4. Let the professionals do their job
Once instructed, the seller’s solicitor will draft a contract and send it to your solicitor, who’ll carry out the necessary checks. They’ll also work with your mortgage lender to coordinate the paperwork.
This part of the process can take a few weeks — or sometimes a few months — depending on how straightforward the sale is.
5. Sign and exchange contracts
When everything is ready, your solicitor will ask you to sign the final contract. At this stage, contracts are exchanged between both parties and a completion date is agreed.
On completion day, the property officially becomes yours — you’ll get the keys and can finally move in.
While you wait for the legal process to complete, you can start planning the fun bits like décor, furniture, and that first night in your new home. But remember — the sale isn’t legally binding until contracts are exchanged (the process works a little differently in Scotland).
If you’re still looking for your perfect property in Thetford or across Breckland, get in touch with us. We might already have something that fits exactly what you’re after.
If you know someone who’s about to move, please share this article with them.
Article by Andrew Overman | Partner | Location Location East
