Mortgage and moving: the timeline from offer to keys
What happens between agreeing a price and picking up the keys, and when to book your move.
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If you are buying with a mortgage, your moving date is controlled by a chain of steps. Knowing the order helps you book the right removal slot without paying twice. This is general information, not financial advice. Speak to a mortgage adviser about your own circumstances.
Step by step
- Agreement in principle. A lender or broker tells you roughly what you can borrow. It is not a guarantee, but estate agents expect to see it.
- Offer accepted. Your offer on the property is agreed, subject to contract. Either side can still withdraw.
- Mortgage application. You submit documents, and the lender runs checks and a valuation.
- Survey and searches. You may commission a survey while your solicitor orders local authority and other searches.
- Mortgage offer. The lender issues a formal offer, often valid for several months.
- Exchange of contracts. The sale becomes legally binding. A completion date is fixed. This is the best moment to confirm your removal date.
- Completion. Money moves, and the seller's solicitor releases the keys. This is moving day.
When to book removals
You can get quotes as soon as your offer is accepted so you know the cost. Many companies will pencil in a date, but confirm only after exchange when the completion date is fixed. If you book earlier, check the cancellation and rebooking terms.
Selling at the same time
In a chain, everyone completes on the same day. Funds arrive in a sequence, so keys are often released in the afternoon. Plan for a later start at the new address and keep a flexible removal window. Our guide to completion day covers delays and what to do if keys arrive late.
Mortgage points that affect moving
- Porting. Some mortgages can move with you, which may avoid early repayment charges. The new property must meet the lender's criteria.
- Early repayment charges. Leaving a fixed deal early can be costly, so check the end date.
- Valuation. If the lender values the home below the price, you may need a larger deposit or to renegotiate.
- Fees. Product, valuation and broker fees can be paid up front or added to the loan, which increases interest paid.
- Buildings insurance. Must be in place from exchange, because you become responsible for the building then.
Simple tips
- Keep copies of payslips, ID and bank statements ready. Delays usually come from missing paperwork.
- Do not make big purchases or open new credit before completion.
- Build in a buffer between your old tenancy or sale and the new home.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take from offer to completion?
Many UK purchases take around 8 to 16 weeks, but chains, leasehold issues and lender delays can make it longer.
When should I book a removal company if I have a mortgage?
Get quotes after your offer is accepted and confirm the booking at exchange when the date is fixed.
Can I move before completion?
No, not legally. You cannot take the keys or move belongings in until your solicitor confirms completion.
Related guides
- Completion day explained: what happens and what to do
- The true cost of moving house in the UK: every fee to budget for
- Moving house after buying
Prices and rules in this guide are general guides and change over time. Check GOV.UK or a qualified adviser for your own situation.
