Offer Accepted: What Happens Next?

An accepted offer is a big milestone. But it's not the finish line. From here, the sale moves into the legal and financial process that turns an agreed price into a completed move.

In England, Wales (and usually Northern Ireland), an accepted offer is typically not legally binding until exchange of contracts.

In Scotland, the sale becomes binding at the conclusion of missives, which can happen earlier.

This guide explains what happens next, what you should do first, and how to keep things moving smoothly.

Key takeaways

• "Offer accepted" means you have an agreed price. But the deal isn't usually binding until later.
• The next priorities are: instruct solicitors, finalise mortgage and arrange surveys.
• A lender valuation is not the same as a survey.
• Clear communication reduces delays, especially in a chain.

Step-by-Step: What Happens After an Offer is Accepted

Step 1: Instruct your conveyancer/solicitor (ASAP)

If you haven’t already, now’s the time to formally instruct your legal professional.

What happens next:

• buyer and seller swap solicitor details
• the sale is opened on the solicitor’s system
• identity and source-of-funds checks begin
• the seller’s solicitor prepares the draft contract pack (E&W)

Solicitors & Conveyancers

Step 2: Confirm the Deal Details in Writing

Even if you’re selling privately, it helps to write down the basics so everyone stays aligned:

• agreed price
• what’s included (fixtures, appliances, sheds, etc.)
• target timescales
• any conditions (e.g., “subject to survey”, “subject to mortgage”)

For example (message to buyer/seller):

“Just confirming we’ve agreed £X, with the fridge-freezer and blinds included. We’re aiming for completion around [month]. Solicitor details are below.”

Step 3: Buyer Moves from Mortgage in Principle to Full Mortgage Offer

If the buyer is using a mortgage, it’s time to finalise the mortgage application.

Typically lenders request:

• payslips / proof of income
• bank statements
• ID and address checks
• proof of deposit (and gifted deposit evidence if relevant)

The lender will also arrange a valuation of the property for lending purposes.

Mortgage Types & Affordability

Step 4: Valuation and Survey (Don't Confuse the Two)

Most mortgage lenders do a valuation to protect the lender. It may not identify defects in detail.

Many buyers choose an additional survey for peace of mind.

Property Valuations & Surveys

Step 5: Legal Searches and Enquiries

This is where the solicitors do the “digging”:

• searches (local authority, water/drainage, environmental, etc. — varies)
• reviewing title/lease
• raising enquiries (questions back and forth between solicitors)

Seller tip: delays often come from missing paperwork. If you can, pull together:

• warranties/certificates for works (windows, boiler, extensions where applicable)
• if applicable, leasehold info (Ground Rent & Service Charge)
• any relevant planning/building control paperwork (if you have it)

Step 6: Set the Completion Date

Once:

• mortgage offer is issued
• searches/enquiries are satisfied
• survey issues (if any) are resolved

…your legal professionals will move towards exchange and completion.

Step 7: Completion Day (Moving Day)

On completion:

• the buyer’s funds are transferred
• keys are released (often via the agent)
• the buyer can move in

Practical tip: confirm access/key handover details a few days before completion so nobody is guessing on the day.

Keeping Communication Smooth (Especially in a Chain)

Even with solicitors involved, direct, polite updates reduce stress and stop misunderstandings.

Good habits

• share solicitor details early
• update each other when milestones happen (mortgage offer received, survey booked, searches ordered)
• respond quickly if the other side asks a straightforward question

For example (progress check-in):

"Hi, quick update: survey is booked for next Tuesday and the mortgage valuation is in progress. How are things looking your side?"