Receiving an offer on your property is a brilliant milestone. It means a buyer has seen the potential in your home and wants to make it theirs. But what happens next? The steps between offer and completion can seem complex at first, yet with the right guidance, it’s a smooth and rewarding process.
Here’s a straightforward guide to what happens after you’ve accepted an offer.
Accepting the offer and confirming details
Once you receive an offer, your estate agent will check the buyer’s proof of funds before confirming the sale. This step ensures the buyer is in a position to proceed, giving you confidence from the very start. When you’re happy to accept, your property will be marked as “sold subject to contract” (SSTC), and both parties will instruct solicitors to handle the legal work.
Surveys and searches
The buyer’s solicitor will carry out standard legal searches to check for any issues relating to the property or local area. Some buyers may also choose to arrange a survey for their own peace of mind. These steps are all about reassurance, confirming that the home they’re buying is just as good as it seems.
Enquiries and contract signing
Once the buyer’s solicitor reviews the contract and search results, they may raise some questions or enquiries. Your solicitor will help you respond and provide any supporting paperwork. Once both sides are happy and all details are clear, contracts can be finalised and prepared for signing, a key moment where everything starts to feel real.
Exchange of contracts
When everyone is ready, contracts are exchanged between solicitors. At this point, the sale becomes legally binding, and a completion date is agreed. If the buyer is purchasing with a mortgage, they’ll pay a deposit to their solicitor. With the paperwork complete, you can look ahead to moving day with confidence and excitement.
Completion day
Completion day is the moment you’ve been waiting for. The buyer’s solicitor transfers the remaining balance, and once funds have cleared, your estate agent releases the keys. Your sale is complete, and it’s time to start your next chapter!
At David James Estate Agents, we believe selling your home should be an exciting and positive experience. Our friendly, experienced team will guide you through every stage, from the moment an offer is made to the day you hand over the keys – keeping things clear, calm, and stress-free.
Thinking about selling? Contact us today to arrange your free valuation and take the next step in your property journey!