Immediately After Acceptance

Once you have accepted an offer, several things need to happen quickly:

• Instruct a solicitor or licensed conveyancer if you haven't already — they will handle the legal side of the sale
• Notify your estate agent of the acceptance so they can update the listing status and begin qualifying the buyer
• Ask your agent to confirm the buyer's financial position — mortgage in principle, proof of funds, or confirmation of cash buyer status
• Begin gathering the documents your solicitor will need — title deeds, planning permissions, building regulations certificates, and any other relevant paperwork

The Conveyancing Process Begins

Your solicitor will send a draft contract to the buyer's solicitor, along with a package of information about the property. This package typically includes the title register and title plan from HM Land Registry, the completed property information forms (TA6 and TA10), and any supporting documents. The buyer's solicitor will review this information, raise enquiries, and arrange searches.

Completing Property Information Forms

One of your most important tasks after offer acceptance is completing the property information forms. The TA6 (Property Information Form) covers a wide range of topics including boundaries, disputes, alterations, services, and environmental matters. The TA10 (Fittings and Contents Form) records what is and is not included in the sale. These forms need to be completed accurately and honestly — incorrect or incomplete information can delay the transaction and may have legal consequences.

The Buyer's Survey and Mortgage Valuation

If the buyer is using a mortgage, the lender will arrange a mortgage valuation to confirm the property is worth the amount being lent. The buyer may also commission an independent survey — a HomeBuyer Report or a full structural survey. If the survey identifies issues, the buyer may seek to renegotiate the price or ask you to address specific problems before exchange.

Enquiries and Replies

The buyer's solicitor will raise enquiries based on the information provided and the results of searches. Your solicitor will ask you to respond to these enquiries. Some are straightforward; others may require you to obtain additional documentation or take legal advice. Responding to enquiries promptly is one of the most effective ways to keep the transaction moving.

Exchange and Completion

Once all enquiries are resolved, searches are back, the buyer's mortgage offer is in place, and both parties are ready, contracts are exchanged. At exchange, the sale becomes legally binding and a completion date is agreed. On completion day, the buyer's funds are transferred, the keys are handed over, and the sale is complete.

How Long Does It Take?

The time from offer acceptance to exchange typically ranges from eight to sixteen weeks, depending on the complexity of the transaction, the length of the chain, and how quickly all parties respond to enquiries and requests. Completion usually takes place one to four weeks after exchange, though the parties can agree any date that suits them.