Offer Accepted: What Happens Next?
Having an offer accepted is an exciting step, but it is not the end of the buying process.
There is still important work to do before the keys can be handed over. Solicitors need to be instructed, mortgage details need to be confirmed, searches and enquiries need to be handled, and everyone involved needs to keep communicating clearly.
This stage is known as sales progression.
At Campbells, we know this part of the journey can feel unfamiliar, especially if you are buying for the first time. Our role is to help keep things moving, explain what is happening and work closely with solicitors, sellers and buyers so the process feels as clear and steady as possible.
Here is what usually happens after your offer is accepted.
1. Instruct your solicitor
One of the first things to do is appoint a conveyancing solicitor.
Your solicitor will handle the legal side of the purchase. They will review the contract papers, raise enquiries, carry out searches and manage the transfer of funds when the purchase completes.
Choosing a solicitor who communicates clearly and acts promptly can make a real difference. Once appointed, try to return any forms, identification and proof of funds as quickly as possible. Small delays at the start can slow things down later.
2. Progress your mortgage
If you are buying with a mortgage, your lender will need to move your application forward.
They will usually arrange a valuation of the property. This is for the lender’s benefit, so they can check the property offers suitable security for the loan. It is not the same as a survey.
It is important to stay in touch with your mortgage adviser or lender during this stage and provide anything they ask for promptly.
3. Consider a survey
A survey is not always compulsory, but it is often sensible.
It can help you understand the condition of the property before you fully commit. The type of survey you choose may depend on the age, style and condition of the property.
A newer or conventional property may only need a more basic survey, while an older, extended or unusual property may benefit from something more detailed.
If the survey raises concerns, do not panic. Some points may be expected, particularly with older homes. The important thing is to understand what matters, what is manageable and whether anything needs further discussion.
4. Searches and enquiries
Your solicitor will carry out searches and raise enquiries with the seller’s solicitor.
This part can take time because it often relies on information from several people or organisations. Searches may look at local authority information, drainage, environmental matters and other details connected to the property.
Your solicitor may also ask questions about boundaries, planning permissions, guarantees, fixtures and fittings, or any work that has been carried out.
This is a normal part of the process. It is there to help you make an informed purchase.
5. Keeping communication moving
Good communication is one of the most important parts of sales progression.
Buyers, sellers, solicitors, mortgage advisers and agents all have a role to play. If one part of the chain slows down, it can affect everyone else.
At Campbells, we stay close to the process by keeping in contact with the people involved, checking progress and helping to resolve issues where we can. We cannot do the legal work, but we can help keep conversations moving and make sure delays are not left unnoticed.
6. Exchange of contracts
Once the legal enquiries are answered, the mortgage offer is in place and everyone is ready, contracts can be exchanged.
This is the point where the purchase becomes legally binding. A completion date is usually agreed at the same time, giving everyone a clear moving date to work towards.
You will normally need to have your deposit funds ready before exchange. You should also arrange buildings insurance from exchange, as this is usually when responsibility for the property passes to you.
7. Completion day
Completion is the day the remaining funds are transferred and the property officially becomes yours.
Once the seller’s solicitor confirms the money has arrived, the keys can be released. This is usually when you collect them from the estate agent.
It can sometimes take a little while for funds to move through the banking system, so completion day often requires patience. Once confirmation is received, you can collect the keys and begin settling into your new home.
How buyers can help the process
There are a few simple things buyers can do to help the purchase move more smoothly.
Have your identification, proof of funds and mortgage details ready early. Respond to your solicitor and mortgage adviser as quickly as you can. Read documents carefully and ask questions if you are unsure. Keep your estate agent updated if anything changes.
Being organised does not remove every possible delay, but it does help reduce unnecessary hold-ups.
A calmer route to completion
Buying a property involves several moving parts, and it is normal for questions to come up along the way.
The key is having the right people involved, clear communication and a steady approach from offer acceptance through to completion.
At Campbells, we are here to help buyers understand the process, stay informed and move towards completion with confidence.
Buying a home is a big step. Good sales progression helps make that step feel clearer.
