A Step-by-Step Guide to Buying Your First Home in 2026

Buying your first home is exciting — but it can also feel overwhelming. Between estate agents, mortgage offers and legal paperwork, it’s easy to lose track of what happens when and why.

At Vincent Sykes Solicitors, we regularly guide first-time buyers through the conveyancing process. Here’s a clear, step-by-step guide to what you can expect when buying your first property in England and Wales in 2026.

Step 1: Your Offer Is Accepted

Once your offer is accepted, the legal process begins. At this stage, you should instruct a solicitor as soon as possible. Early instruction helps avoid delays later on.

Your solicitor will:

  • Request the contract pack from the seller’s solicitor
  • Carry out identity and anti-money laundering checks
  • Ask how you plan to fund the purchase (mortgage, savings, gifted deposit)

Step 2: Searches and Legal Checks

This is where much of the solicitor’s work happens behind the scenes.

Your solicitor will:

  • Review the title deeds
  • Raise enquiries with the seller’s solicitor
  • Order property searches (local authority, drainage, environmental, etc.)

These checks help uncover issues such as planning restrictions, rights of way, or potential environmental risks.

Step 3: Mortgage Offer and Report

Once your mortgage offer is issued, your solicitor will:

  • Review the mortgage conditions
  • Ensure the property meets the lender’s requirements
  • Explain the legal implications of the contract and mortgage to you

You’ll receive a clear report outlining anything you need to be aware of before committing.

Step 4: Exchange of Contracts

Exchange is the point at which the purchase becomes legally binding.

Before exchange:

  • All enquiries must be resolved
  • Your deposit is transferred
  • A completion date is agreed upon

Once contracts are exchanged, neither party can withdraw without serious financial consequences.

Step 5: Completion Day

On completion day:

  • The balance of funds is transferred
  • Ownership legally changes hands
  • You receive the keys to your new home

Your solicitor then deals with post-completion matters, including Stamp Duty submissions and registration with HM Land Registry.

Top Tips for First-Time Buyers

  • Budget for legal fees and disbursements early
  • Don’t make major purchases before mortgage completion
  • Respond promptly to your solicitor’s requests
  • Ask questions — no question is a silly one

Need Help Buying Your First Home?

A good solicitor doesn’t just handle paperwork — they guide you through one of the biggest decisions of your life.

If you’re buying your first property and want clear, supportive legal advice, our residential property team would be happy to help.

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