What Happens on Completion Day? A Step-by-Step Guide for UK Buyers

Completion Day Explained: The Final Step in Your Home Buying Journey

After weeks (or even months) of solicitors’ emails surveys mortgage arrangements and property searches completion day is when it all finally becomes real. It’s the moment you legally take ownership of your new home and get the keys.

But despite the excitement many first-time buyers are unsure about what actually happens on this big day—and how it all unfolds.

This comprehensive guide walks you through the step-by-step process of completion day how it fits into your moving house timeline and tips to avoid delays or stress.

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Where Does Completion Day Sit in the Moving Timeline?

Let’s break it down:

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What Actually Happens on Completion Day?

Here’s what typically occurs on completion day in the UK:

1. Final Checks by the Solicitor

Your solicitor performs last-minute checks to ensure:

• All signed paperwork is complete

• The seller’s solicitor confirms vacant possession

• The final mortgage funds have been received

2. Transfer of Funds

Your solicitor will transfer the purchase money to the seller’s solicitor via CHAPS (same-day bank transfer) . This usually happens between 9am and 1pm .

This includes:

• Mortgage funds

• Your deposit (paid at exchange)

• Any top-up funds (balance after deposit and mortgage)

3. Confirmation of Completion

Once the seller’s solicitor confirms receipt of funds they authorise the estate agent to release the keys .

At that point:

You are the legal owner
You can pick up the keys and access the property
The property is now your responsibility (insurance council tax etc.)

4. Get the Keys

You’ll usually collect the keys from the estate agent not the seller. Most agents will call you once authorised to do so.

Top tip: If you’re moving on completion day aim for early collection —but understand delays can happen.

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Moving House on Completion Day: Tips and Timeline

While it’s common to move on the same day it can be tight. Here’s a suggested timeline:

Moving Tips:

• Pack in advance — don’t wait until the morning

• Confirm removal bookings early and have flexible hours

• Keep essentials (toiletries chargers documents) in a separate bag

• Arrange insurance to begin on completion day morning

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What If There’s a Chain?

A property chain means your purchase depends on others buying or selling. Delays in one link can delay everyone’s completion. Be prepared for:

• Later key release times (3–4pm isn’t uncommon)

• Unexpected hold-ups in fund transfers

• Increased stress if multiple removals are coordinated

Top tip: If you're chain-free your process is much simpler and usually completed earlier.

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What Should You Do After Completion?

Here’s a checklist of tasks you’ll want to tick off as soon as you’ve completed:

Secure Your New Home

• Change locks and alarm codes

• Check smoke and carbon monoxide alarms

Utilities

• Take gas electric and water meter readings

• Contact providers or switch to better tariffs

• Register for council tax

Essentials for Day One

• Toilet paper light bulbs kettle and phone chargers

• Clean before unpacking — some buyers even book professional cleaners

Legal & Financial

• Store all legal documents in a safe folder

• Make a note of the completion date for insurance or tax purposes

• Check Land Registry updates within weeks (your solicitor may handle this)

Final Thought: Be Prepared, Not Panicked

Completion day can be exciting but also unpredictable. Understanding the process preparing in advance and staying calm if things run a little late will help you enjoy the moment you’ve been waiting for.

If you're still navigating the buying process tools like WiseNest’s Timeline and Survey Assistant help simplify your journey — from offer to keys-in-hand.

Create your free WiseNest account today to keep your homebuying on track.