Lots of UK adults ended 2025 with itchy feet to move. Buying a new home feels exciting, but the process involves far more than choosing a property and signing a mortgage agreement. If you ignore the less obvious steps, you risk delays, unexpected costs or even legal disputes.
Understanding these hidden stages will help you move confidently from offer to completion without nasty surprises. Let’s explore the overlooked tasks that protect your investment and keep your purchase on track.
1. Commission a property survey early
A survey is more than a box to tick – it’s your safeguard against expensive mistakes. When you arrange one, you uncover structural issues, damp or boundary problems before they become your responsibility.
If the survey reveals defects, you can renegotiate the price or insist on repairs ahead of completion. Contact a qualified surveyor as soon as your offer is accepted so you have time to act on the findings.
2. Order comprehensive legal searches
Searches reveal risks you can’t see during a viewing. For example:
- Local authority checks expose planning restrictions or road schemes that could affect your property’s value.
- Drainage and water searches check whether the home connects to public sewers.
- Environmental reports highlight flood risks or contaminated land.
Ask your solicitor to explain each search result and flag anything that could impact your plans, as acting now could prevent costly surprises later.
3. Scrutinise the paperwork before you sign
Your contract sets the rules for ownership, so read it carefully with your solicitor. Check the title deeds for clarity on boundaries and rights of way, which can affect your relationships with neighbours. Confirm which fixtures and fittings will stay with you – don’t assume appliances or garden features are included, for example.
Look for restrictive covenants that limit what you can do with the home, too. Conveyancing covers all these legal checks and ensures funds transfer correctly. If anything seems unclear, raise questions immediately, as a thorough review avoids post-completion hiccups.
4. Budget for extra costs and build in time
Many buyers underestimate the true cost of moving, which stands at around £13,000 for 2026. Beyond your deposit, you’ll pay solicitor fees, survey charges, stamp duty and insurance. These expenses add up quickly, so create a detailed budget before you commit.
Timelines matter for buyers and sellers too: searches can take weeks, and mortgage approvals often drag. Factor in these delays when planning your schedule to minimise last-minute stress or temporary accommodation costs.
5. Complete final checks before handover
Prior to completion day, it’s a good idea to inspect the property to confirm agreed repairs are finished. You can then arrange for your legal support to verify that funds are ready and all paperwork is in order.
Nearer the day itself, agree when you’ll receive the keys and how utilities will transfer to ensure a smooth transition.
Buying a home goes beyond finding somewhere you like the look of. By tackling surveys, searches and other possible barriers proactively, you’re more likely to enjoy a stress-free move.
