Exchange Prep, Insurance, and Fixed Dates: Completion Day!
You’ve navigated the finances, secured the survey, and the legal work is wrapping up. You are now at the finish line! This final stage, covering Exchange to Completion, is where things become legally binding and deadlines are set.
While this can be the most stressful part of the journey, remember that your Sales Progressor is your dedicated point of contact. They own this part of the process, ensuring clear communication and a seamless transaction.
The Exchange Preparation: Insurance is a Must
Exchange of Contracts is the key moment. This is when the agreement becomes legally binding for both buyer and seller, and you pay your deposit (usually 10%).
Crucial First-Time Buyer Tip: Buildings Insurance.
You are legally responsible for the property from the moment of exchange. Therefore, you must have buildings insurance in place before the exchange date, even though you don't officially own the property yet. This protects you in case of fire, flood, or other major damage occurring between Exchange and Completion. Don't overlook this!
Setting the Fixed Completion Date
The completion date is the fixed date when the money changes hands and you get the keys. This date is agreed upon by everyone in the chain (if there is one) and is inserted into the contract at exchange.
Once the date is fixed, you can finally start planning the fun stuff: booking the removal company, planning the carpet cleaning, and inviting friends over for that first celebratory cuppa! This is the moment you know you are moving with confidence.
Completion Day: The Next Chapter
Completion Day is about funds transfer. Your mortgage lender sends the money to your solicitor, who then sends it up the chain.
The Key Handover: Once the funds are confirmed, your solicitor will tell your personal agent that the sale is complete. Your agent will then arrange the key handover.
This is the day your personal agent is still there. It's the moment we celebrate your move and the start of your next chapter.
Congratulations, you are now a homeowner!