Cribs Estates Ltd
Enquiry form
Phone
WhatsApp
Back to the blogs list

How Long Does it Take to Buy a House

Buyers
Posted in   Mar 07 , 2024
How Long Does it Take to Buy a House

Are you excited about purchasing your own house in London, UK? However, at the same time, are you worried about the time required to complete the entire process? It's understandable to be concerned about the time it will take to buy a house, but there is no need to worry as you have come to the right place. We understand that purchasing a home in the competitive market of London can be tricky; however, it can be a relatively simple process if you approach the right estate agents and solicitors. Nonetheless, it's important to note that the process will require a certain amount of time to complete. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide to explain how much time will be sufficient to purchase a house in London.

Search for an ideal home

When you begin searching for the perfect home, it usually takes 1 to 4 months to find one. This is the first and most important step in buying a home.

It's important to take your time selecting the house you want to buy because once you've made the deal, you won't be able to back out. 

It's recommended that you view various properties that interest you and communicate your preferences to your estate agent. 

This will allow them to filter the properties on your behalf and save you time and energy so that you can focus on viewing only the properties that meet your criteria.

Read More: What is the value of my house

Mortgage period

To secure your mortgage, it can take up to a month. Beforehand, you must have an Agreement in Principle (AIP) showing the estate agent how committed you are to buying a home in London. 

The sole purpose of an AIP is to determine how much money the lender is willing to lend you to purchase your new home. Having an AIP before making an offer on a property is essential. 

Typically, an AIP is valid for three months, after which you'll need to renew it.

Bargaining phase

Once you have selected the house you wish to purchase and have obtained an AIP (Agreement in Principle), the next step is to make an offer. 

It's advisable to discuss this with your trusted advisors, who can offer their opinions and help you make the best offer. When making an offer, ensure that you include all the necessary details and explain why you are offering less than the asking price. This will help your proposal appear more convincing. 

Remember that there is an equal chance of your offer being approved or rejected, and the selling party may try to negotiate with you. 

In both cases, it's crucial to remain calm and take time to consider your options before making any final decisions. 

Remember that you will also have to incur costs such as taxes, solicitor fees, and estate agent fees, so it's important to agree on an offer you can afford without taking on too much debt.

Conveyancing process

When purchasing a property, hiring a solicitor is important to help you complete the legal process. The solicitor or conveyancer plays a crucial role in ensuring the process is smooth, and all legal requirements are met. 

Once you finalise the deal with the seller party, you should hire a solicitor to help you with the legal process. Before hiring a solicitor, it's important to check their profile and reviews and discuss the final fees of their services. This will ensure that you understand their expertise and experience and that you are comfortable with the fees they charge. 

The conveyancer deals with all the paperwork and works on your behalf in the process. They will work to ensure that the property is legally transferred to you and that all legal requirements are met. 

The conveyancing process can take up to three months, depending on various factors. During this time, survey reports will be considered, contracts will be prepared and signed by both parties, and the availability of both parties will also be taken into account. 

It's worth noting that the conveyancing process can be more complicated for leasehold properties. This can lead to additional legal requirements and fees. 

Discussing these issues with your solicitor to ensure you fully understand the process and any potential challenges is important.

Contract exchange 

After completing the conveyancing process, the final step is to obtain a comprehensive survey of your property and exchange contracts. 

The entire process typically takes up to two weeks.

Once you have exchanged contracts, the property officially becomes yours, and you can move in immediately. However, it's important to remember to pay all necessary fees, including the solicitor's, estate agent's, and stamp duty.

Wrapping Up!

To sum up the whole discussion, buying a house in London will depend on your preferences, location, and legal requirements. Based on the estimates we've discussed, it may take up to 5-7 months to complete the process. However, the speed at which you can purchase a home is influenced by your choice of estate agent. Cribs Estates is the perfect solution for all your home buying and selling needs if you're still looking for a trustworthy agent. With 30 years of experience and a team of professionals, we have the expertise to guide you through the process. To schedule an appointment, please call us at +44 2034 4115 71 or email us at info@cribsestates.co.uk.

Shared on social media

Comments


Enquiry form

Title
First name*
Last name
Phone*
Email*
Enquiry details
  
Send Enquiry

Latest Blogs

Government Landlord Tax Hikes: How Much More Will You Pay?

Anyone who owns a rental property has recently been left wondering what the new landlord tax hike means for their actual income. From 6 April 2027, separate Income Tax rates for property income will be 22% at the basic rate, 42% at the higher rate and 47% at the additional rate. Changes to Tax rates for Property, Savings and Dividend Income apply in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Residential finance cost relief will also be calculated at the new 22% property basic rate.For some landlords, the change will increase their tax bill. The exact impact depends on their property income and wider tax position.What Are the Government Landlord Tax Hikes?The government is introducing separate Income Tax rates for property income from the 2027 to 2028 tax year.Property income rateCurrent rateFrom 6 April 2027Basic20%22%Higher40%42%Additional45%47%The change does not mean every landlord will pay the highest rate on all rental income. Your actual tax position depends on your income, property profits, losses, reliefs and other circumstances.HMRC also confirms that the Property Allowance and Rent a Room Scheme remain unchanged.How Much More Tax Could You Pay?To explain it simply, if £10,000 of taxable property income fell entirely within the basic property rate:At 20%, the tax would be £2,000.At 22%, it would be £2,200.Difference: £200.HMRC's technical guidance confirms that property income will sit within a new order of taxation, after employment, trading and other non-property income, and before savings and dividend income.What Happens to Mortgage Interest Tax Relief?Individual landlords do not deduct residential finance costs directly from rental income when calculating their property profits. Instead, they receive a tax reduction for eligible finance costs.From 2027 to 2028, HMRC says this relief will be calculated at the new property basic rate of 22%. This means your mortgage position also matters, not just rental income. Is the Landlord Tax Change Happening in 2026 or 2027?The new property income tax rates take effect from 6 April 2027. This is separate from Making Tax Digital for Income Tax, which has its own implementation timetable and reporting requirements.Which Landlords Should Review Their Position?You should consider reviewing your position if you:Receive substantial rental income.Have residential mortgage finance costs.Have employment, pension or other taxable income alongside rent.Own several rental properties.Are considering buying another investment property.Are considering changing how your properties are owned.Don't assume selling a property or moving it into a company automatically solves the issue. Those decisions involve wider tax, mortgage, legal and administrative considerations.Should You Raise the Rent, Sell or Keep Your Property?The tax changes might make you question whether your current properties still make financial sense. Before making a decision, look at the full picture:ReviewWhat to considerRental incomeIs the current rent appropriate for the local market?Property costsWhat do maintenance, insurance, and management cost?MortgageHow do finance costs affect your overall position?TaxHow will the new property income rates affect you?Property valueWhat is the property worth today?Future plansDoes the property still fit your investment strategy?As a landlord, you need to check the net position, as a higher tax bill or strong rent does not mean the property is good or bad.What Should Landlords Do Before April 2027?Don’t panic yet; you still have time to review your portfolio before the new property income rates take effect. If you're considering another purchase, calculate the expected return using the tax rules and costs relevant to your circumstances rather than relying on gross rental income alone.How Cribs Estates FitsTax rates are outside a landlord's control, but property management is different.Cribs Estates provides landlord and property management support covering areas such as tenant sourcing,property management, maintenance and portfolio support.Its existing buy-to-let guidance also focuses on rental yields, reducing void periods, maintaining properties and regularly reviewing portfolio performance.Reviewing your portfolio ahead of the 2027 changes? Explore Cribs Estates' property management services to see how professional management fits into your overall strategy.FAQsWhen do the new landlord tax rates start?The new government landlord tax hikes take effect from 6 April 2027 for the 2027 to 2028 tax year.How much is landlord tax increasing in 2027?The new property income rates will be 22%, 42% and 47%, compared with the current 20%, 40% and 45% rates.Will all landlords pay more tax?Not necessarily by the same amount. The effect depends on your taxable property income and wider tax circumstances.Do landlords still get mortgage interest tax relief?Eligible residential finance costs will continue to receive tax relief. From 2027 to 2028, HMRC says the relief will be calculated at the 22% property basic rate.Should I move my rental property into a limited company?There is no universal answer. Company ownership involves tax, financing, legal and administrative considerations. Get individual advice before changing your ownership structure.Will landlords increase rents because of the tax changes?There is no guaranteed outcome. Whether you can increase rent depends on your local rental market, tenant demand, and what comparable properties achieve.

Read more

C1 or C3 Planning Use? Avoid Costly Buying Mistakes

You've found a property that meets your expectations. The location is right, the price is suitable, and you already have plans on how to use it. Then you hear someone saying, "Have you checked the planning use?"A lot of buyers only discover the importance of planning use after they've agreed on a purchase, delaying projects or requiring unexpected planning applications. Whether you are buying a home, investing in a property, or utilising a development opportunity, here’s why it’s important to know the planning categories of use before exchanging contracts.Why Planning Categories Matter Before You BuyPlanning categories of use tell how a property can legally be occupied or operated. It needs to be as per the use of planning conditions set by the government. C3 planning use generally applies to houses and flats used as permanent homes, whilst C1 planning use applies to hotels, guest houses, and similar short-term accommodation.The planning categories may affect:Whether your intended use is already permitted.Future renovation or conversion plans.Rental or investment opportunities.The property's resale potential.The time and cost are involved in changing its use.C1 Planning Use or C3 Planning UseBoth categories relate to buildings people occupy, they're designed for different purposes.C1 Planning UseC3 Planning UseHotels and guest housesHouses and flatsTemporary accommodationPermanent residential livingVisitors and short staysIndividuals and familiesCommercial accommodationResidential occupationWhat Is C3 Planning Use?C3 planning use is the most common planning category for residential properties. It covers homes occupied by individuals, families, or small groups living together as a single household. Most houses and flats you'll see on the market fall within this category. What Is C1 Planning Use?C1 planning use applies to buildings used for temporary accommodation, including hotels, boarding houses, and guest houses, where people stay for short periods rather than living there permanently.Read the planning use classes guidance to get more details about the use class orders.The Buying Mistakes That Cost Buyers MoneyOne of the biggest reasons property purchases become more expensive than expected is that buyers assume the planning use matches their intentions.Here are some of the most common mistakes.Assuming every residential-looking property has C3 planning useBuying before checking the planning historyAssuming short-term accommodation is automatically allowedIgnoring local planning policiesForgetting your long-term plansHow to Check a Property's Planning Use?It’s easier to check a property planning use before you buy than to deal with planning issues after you've completed the purchase. Here’s a checklist you should follow:Check the property's planning history on your local council's planning portal.Review previous planning permissions and approved changes of use.Ask the seller or estate agent to confirm the current planning use.Discuss any concerns with your solicitor during the conveyancing process.Contact the local planning authority if you're unsure whether your intended use is permitted.Taking these steps early can help you identify potential restrictions before they become costly problems.Planning Categories of Use and Your Future PlansUnderstanding planning categories of use isn't only important when buying a property. It also affects what you may be able to do with it in the future.For example, you might plan to:Extend the property.Convert it into an HMO.Create serviced accommodation.Redevelop or change its purpose.Sell it as an investment property.Each of these plans may involve different planning requirements depending on the property's existing use class and your local authority's policies.That's why it's important to think beyond today's purchase. Choosing a property with the right planning use can provide greater flexibility if your plans change later.FAQsCan I change a property's planning use?In some cases, yes. However, changing a property's planning use may require planning permission from your local planning authority. The requirements depend on the current use class, the proposed use, and local planning policies.Do I always need planning permission to change use?Not always. Some changes are permitted without a full planning application, while others require formal approval. Always check with your local planning authority before making changes.How do I check a property's planning category?You can review the property's planning history through your local council's planning portal, ask the seller or estate agent, or discuss the planning status with your solicitor during the purchase process.Is C1 or C3 planning use better for investment?Neither is automatically better. The right planning use depends on your investment strategy and how you intend to use the property. Understanding the planning category before buying helps ensure the property supports your long-term goals.How Cribs Estates Helps BuyersCribs Estateshelps buyers and investors identify properties that align with their goals whilst providing local market knowledge throughout the buying process. Whether you're purchasing your first home, expanding your portfolio, or searching for an investment opportunity, our experienced team helps you make informed decisions from the very beginning.If you're considering an investment purchase, you may also find our guide on Investment Property for Sale London: Is Now the Right Time to Invest? useful.Landlords looking for ongoing support can also explore our Property Management services to help manage their investment after completion.

Read more

Buying an HMO? Check These Room Sizes Before You Commit

The national HMO minimum room size standards in England require a bedroom occupied by one person over the age of 10 to measure at least 6.51m², whilst a room for two people over the age of 10 must be at least 10.22m². A room for one child under 10 must measure at least 4.64m², and any room smaller than this cannot be used as sleeping accommodation.Understanding the room sizes for HMO before you buy, renovate, or let a property helps you avoid costly mistakes and ensures your investment meets legal requirements from the start.What Are the Minimum Room Sizes for an HMO?Understanding the legal minimum room sizes should be one of your first checks. As per the guidance for local housing authorities, the current national standards are:OccupancyMinimum Room SizeOne person (aged 10 or over)6.51m²Two people (aged 10 or over)10.22m²One child (under 10)4.64m²Below 4.64m²Cannot be used as a bedroomThese are the legal minimum room sizes. Always check your local council's HMO licensing requirements, as higher standards may apply.HMO Minimum Room Size Rules: What Landlords MissMany landlords focus only on the room measurements and overlook other rules that affect whether a bedroom complies with HMO licensing standards. Some common mistakes are:Ceiling height affects the measurementOnly the floor area where the ceiling height is more than 1.5 metres counts towards the room size. It is needed for rooms with sloping ceilings, where part of the floor space may not be included in the official measurement.Local councils may require larger roomsThe national standards are the legal minimum, but they don't override local licensing conditions. Some councils require larger bedrooms or additional communal living space before granting an HMO licence. Room layout mattersA bedroom might meet the required floor area but still be impractical because of awkward layouts, restricted headroom, or fixed features that reduce usable living space. Legal Minimum Doesn't Always Mean Best InvestmentMeeting the HMO minimum room size rules doesn't automatically mean you've bought the best investment.Imagine you're comparing two similar HMOs in the same neighbourhood.The first property has bedrooms that meet the legal minimum. The second offers slightly larger rooms with better layouts and more storage space.Although both properties comply with the regulations, the second may attract stronger tenant demand, achieve higher rents, and experience fewer void periods because tenants often value comfort as much as location.National Standards vs Local Council RequirementsOne of the biggest mistakes landlords make is assuming the national rules are the only standards they need to meet.The national HMO minimum room size regulations set the legal baseline across England. However, local HMO standards can apply additional licence conditions that require larger bedrooms, extra communal space, or different occupancy limits.National StandardsLocal Council RequirementsApply across EnglandVary between local authoritiesSet the legal minimum room sizesMay require larger bedrooms or additional amenitiesCannot be lower than the statutory minimumCan introduce higher standards through HMO licensing conditionsMeeting the national minimum doesn't automatically mean your property will satisfy local licensing requirements.How Cribs Estates Helps HMO InvestorsCribs Estates has been helping landlords identify investment opportunities for over a decade. We ensure they match your goals whilst highlighting considerations that could affect future rental income. From viewing suitable properties to understanding local market conditions, our team provides guidance throughout the buying process.Once you've completed your purchase, our property management services support landlords with tenant management, maintenance coordination, inspections, and day-to-day property management, helping you protect your investment over the long term.If you're planning to grow your portfolio, you may also find our guide on How to Maximise Your Buy-to-Let Investment Portfolio useful for long-term investment strategies.FAQsDoes an en-suite count towards HMO room size?Not always. Whilst the room itself may include an en-suite, some local authorities exclude the floor area occupied by personal washing facilities when assessing usable bedroom space. Always check your council's HMO standards before relying on the total room measurement.Can councils require larger HMO bedrooms?Yes. The national standards are the legal minimum, but local authorities have the power to apply higher room size standards through HMO licence conditions where appropriate.What happens if one bedroom is below the minimum size?A room measuring less than 4.64m² cannot be used as sleeping accommodation in a licensed HMO. Depending on the circumstances, it may need to be used for another purpose, such as storage or a study, rather than as a bedroom.How are HMO rooms measured?Measurements are taken from wall to wall, but only floor space where the ceiling height exceeds 1.5 metres is included. Sloping ceilings and unusable areas may reduce the official room size, so it's important to measure carefully before purchasing or converting a property.

Read more

Can 100% Mortgages in England Help Renters Buy Without a Deposit?

A 100% mortgage allows eligible buyers to borrow the full purchase price of a property, meaning no deposit is required. For many renters, the biggest challenge isn't making a monthly mortgage payment, it's saving enough for a deposit.The good news is that some lenders now offer 100% mortgages England to help eligible renters buy a home without a deposit. Whilst these mortgages aren't suitable for everyone, they could provide a route onto the property ladder for first-time buyers who meet the lender's requirements.Why Are 100% Mortgages Making Headlines Again?Many renters are already paying monthly rent that's similar to a potential mortgage payment. Recognising this challenge, some lenders have introduced products that take a different approach. Rather than focusing only on how much you've saved, they may also consider whether you've demonstrated a reliable history of paying rent on time.Did You Know?Most first-time buyer mortgages still require at least a 5% deposit, making no-deposit mortgage products a relatively uncommon option in today's market.These products don't remove the need for affordability checks, but they can offer eligible renters another way to become homeowners.How Do 100% Mortgages in England Work?Unlike a traditional mortgage, where buyers usually contribute a deposit before borrowing the rest, a 100% mortgage product allows eligible applicants to borrow the full value of the property. This doesn't mean the application process is easier.Lenders will still assess whether you can comfortably afford the mortgage repayments. They will review your income, employment, credit history, and monthly spending. Some products also look at your rental payment history to show you've consistently managed housing costs.Not every lender offers 100% mortgages, and eligibility criteria vary between providers. Speaking to a qualified mortgage adviser can help you understand which options may suit your circumstances.Could a 100% Mortgage Be Right for You?A no-deposit mortgage could be worth considering if you're ready to buy but haven't been able to save a deposit.It could be a good option if...You may want to consider other options if...You're a first-time buyer.You're close to saving a deposit.You have a stable income.Your credit history needs improvement.You've consistently paid your rent on time.You're unsure about staying in the property long term.You meet the lender's affordability checks.You want access to a wider range of mortgage products.Qualifying for a mortgage is only part of the decision. Before applying, think about your long-term plans, your monthly budget, and whether homeownership is the right next step.Common Myths About 100% MortgagesThere's a lot of confusion around 100% mortgages England, and it's easy to assume they're either too good to be true or available to everyone. Let’s see the most common ones:MythRealityAnyone can get a 100% mortgage.No. You'll still need to meet the lender's affordability, income, and eligibility criteria.No deposit means no upfront costs.You'll still need to budget for legal fees, surveys, and other buying expenses.Every lender offers 100% mortgages.No. Only a small number of lenders currently offer eligible no-deposit mortgage products.You won't need proof of income.Lenders still carry out income, employment, and affordability checks before approving an application.Understanding how these mortgages work can help you decide whether they're a realistic option for your circumstances rather than relying on common misconceptions.What Costs Should You Still Budget For?A 100% mortgage product to help renters with no deposit removes the need for a deposit, but it doesn't eliminate every cost involved in buying a home.Before applying, it's worth planning for the following expenses:CostAverage Amount (2026)Conveyancing (solicitor's fees)Around £800-£1,500+ plus disbursementsMortgage valuation (if charged)Approximately £150-££800Home surveyAround £400 for a Level 2 survey and £600+ for a Level 3 surveyMortgage arrangement fee (where applicable)Typically £0-£1,999 depending on the lenderRemoval costsOften £400-£1,200+, depending on distance and property sizeIf you're buying your first home, you should also check whether you'll need to pay Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT). The amount depends on the property's purchase price and the latest government thresholds.Before You Apply for a 100% MortgageA little preparation can improve your chances of a smoother mortgage application.Before you apply:✔ Check your credit report for any errors.✔ Gather proof of income and employment.✔ Keep evidence of your rental payments if your lender requires it.✔ Work out your monthly budget, including homeownership costs.✔ Compare different mortgage products with a qualified mortgage adviser.✔ Understand all the costs involved in buying a home, not just the mortgage itself.Taking these steps early can help you identify potential issues before you submit an application.How Cribs Estates Helps First-Time BuyersBuying your first property can feel overwhelming, especially if you're exploring a 100% mortgage in England for the first time.Cribs Estates helpsfirst-time buyers understand the property buying process from start to finish.  Our team of trusted mortgage advisers can explain the options available and help you find a mortgage that's suitable for your circumstances.You may also find these guides helpful:How to Maximise Your Buy-to-Let Investment PortfolioProperties for Sale in LondonHow Much Can I Spend on Rent in the UK?Can an Individual Put a Charge on a Property in the UK?FAQsCan you get a 100% mortgage in England?Yes, but they're only available from selected lenders, and you'll need to meet their affordability and eligibility requirements.Can renters buy a home without a deposit?Some lenders now offer no-deposit mortgage products designed for eligible renters with a strong history of paying rent on time. Availability and criteria vary between lenders.Are 100% mortgages more expensive?Interest rates and fees depend on the lender and the mortgage product you choose. It's important to compare your options rather than focusing solely on the deposit requirement.What happens if my application is declined?A declined application doesn't necessarily mean you won't be able to buy a home in the future. Improving your credit profile, increasing your income or saving towards a deposit may help strengthen a future application.

Read more

Property search

Residential Lettings
Price
Min price
Max price
Number of Bedrooms
Min bedrooms
Max bedrooms
Find properties
x