Completion
In plain English: The day the money moves, the keys change hands, and the home is legally yours.
What actually happens on completion day
- Your solicitor sends the purchase funds to the seller's solicitor (usually via CHAPS).
- The seller's solicitor confirms receipt and releases the keys to the estate agent.
- The buyer collects the keys.
- The transfer deed is dated and lodged for registration with HM Land Registry.
- Stamp duty filing is due within 14 days.
Typical timing
- England & Wales: 1–4 weeks between exchange and completion; some same-day. Most completions happen on a Friday.
- Scotland: "Date of entry" is the equivalent, fixed in the missives; the gap between conclusion of missives and entry is usually short.
Where Offrly fits
An accurate starting-point valuation means fewer last-minute price renegotiations, so your target completion date holds.
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Indicative market guidance — not a regulated valuation and not financial, tax or legal advice. Use a RICS-qualified surveyor for mortgage, insurance or probate purposes.
Related terms
- Exchange of contracts — the binding step that comes before completion
- Chain — every link in a chain completes on the same day
- Stamp duty — due within 14 days of completion
FAQ: Completion
How long between exchange and completion?
Typically 1–4 weeks. Some transactions exchange and complete on the same day (common for chain-free or new-build purchases).
What can go wrong on completion day?
Funds not arriving on time (bank delays), a chain link falling over, or the property not being vacant as agreed. A good solicitor and an early-morning funds transfer reduce the risk.
Do I have to be there?
No. The solicitors handle the legal side. You usually collect keys from the estate agent after funds confirm.