Nirvana Logo

Sellers Guide

Property Seller’s Guide: From Offer to Completion

Selling your house is an exciting milestone, but the legal process can sometimes feel daunting. To help you understand what happens after you agree a sale, here is a clear step-by-step guide tailored for UK property sellers.

1. Offer Accepted

  • Your estate agent confirms the buyer’s offer in writing.
  • The property is marked as Sold Subject to Contract (SSTC).
  • Both you and the buyer instruct solicitors (conveyancers) to manage the legal work.

2. Memorandum of Sale

  • Prepared by your estate agent and sent to all parties.
  • Confirms key details: agreed price, buyer and seller information, and solicitors’ contact details

3. Draft Contract & Seller’s Forms

  • Your solicitor obtains your title deeds and prepares the draft contract.
  • You complete property information forms (TA6, TA10, and TA7 if leasehold).
  • These documents are sent to the buyer’s solicitor.

4. Searches & Enquiries

  • Buyer’s solicitor carries out searches (local authority, drainage, environmental).
  • They raise any enquiries about your property (e.g. planning permissions, guarantees, alterations).
  • You may need to provide additional documents or clarification.

5. Contract Agreement

  • Once enquiries are satisfied, the contract is finalised.
  • Both sides agree on a completion (moving) date.

6. Exchange of Contracts

  • Both parties sign their contracts.
  • The buyer pays a deposit (usually 10%).
  • The sale is now legally binding.
  • The buyer usually takes out buildings insurance from this point.

7. Preparing for Completion

  • Begin packing and confirm removals.
  • Your solicitor prepares a final financial statement.
  • Any mortgage balance is redeemed from the sale proceeds.

8. Completion Day

  • The buyer’s solicitor transfers the balance of funds to your solicitor.
  • Once received, completion is confirmed, and the estate agent releases the keys.
  • Congratulations — your sale is complete!

Tips for a Smooth Sale

  • Respond promptly to solicitor requests.
  • Keep guarantees, certificates, and planning documents ready.
  • Choose an experienced conveyancer with good communication.
  • Stay flexible with dates — small delays are common in chains.

Ready to Sell Your House?

Our team is here to guide you from valuation to completion. Contact us today to book your free consultation.

Get a Free Valuation

Get a Free Valuation

If you're contemplating a move, arrange a free, no obligation valuation of your property at a time to suit you.

Book Valuation
Our Extended Services

Our Extended Services

Explore our services, including mortgages, professional photography, floor plans and support with compliance certificates.

Book Other Services
Get in Touch

Get in Touch

If you would like to discuss your property-related enquiries, or have any questions, get in touch with our friendly team.

Get in Touch
Whatsapp