Buying a Property with Key In Properties

Your Complete Step‑by‑Step Guide

Buying a home is an exciting journey, and at Key In Properties we’re committed to making the process smooth, transparent and stress‑free. Whether you’re a first‑time buyer or an experienced mover, this guide walks you through every stage of the buying process.

1. Selling Your Current Home (If Applicable)

If you already own a property, your first step is to place it on the market.

Why this matters:

• You may need the proceeds from your sale to fund your purchase
• Without a buyer in place, you are considered “non‑proceedable”, meaning sellers may prioritise other buyers
• You risk losing out on your ideal home if another proceedable buyer acts first

We can help you sell your property quickly and effectively. Book a free, no‑obligation valuation or contact our team to get started.

2. Understanding Your Budget

Before you begin your search, it’s important to understand the full costs involved in buying a home. In addition to the purchase price, you should budget for the following:

Mortgage Arrangement Fees

Charged by lenders to set up your mortgage. Some lenders waive this fee. Our independent financial partners offer free, no‑obligation mortgage consultations.

Lender’s Valuation

Required by all mortgage lenders to confirm the property’s value. Costs vary depending on the purchase price.

Professional Surveys

Optional but recommended for peace of mind.

• Homebuyer’s Report: approx. £500
• Building/Structural Survey: up to £1,000

We can arrange surveys through trusted professionals.

Legal / Conveyancing Fees

A solicitor or conveyancer will handle all legal aspects of your purchase. We offer a range of competitive conveyancing options.

Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT)

Payable on properties above £125,000.

• £125,001–£250,000: 2%
• £250,001–£925,000: 5%
• £925,001 to £1.5 million: 10%
• Above £1.5 million: 12%

Land Registry Fee

Typically around £40, depending on the property value.

Local Authority Searches

Conducted by your solicitor to check for planning issues or restrictions. Budget approx. £150.

Other Searches & Disbursements

Includes land charges, coal authority checks, bank transfer fees and more. Approx. £70.

Estate Agency Fees (If Selling)

Charged as a percentage of your sale price. Contact us for details.

Removal Costs

We can connect you with reputable removal companies to make moving day easier.

3. Securing a Mortgage in Principle

A Mortgage in Principle (MIP) is a conditional offer from a lender confirming how much they are prepared to lend you.

Why it’s essential:

• Strengthens your position when making an offer
• Demonstrates to sellers that you are serious and proceedable
• Speeds up the mortgage application once you find a property

Our independent financial advisors can help you secure a MIP quickly and at no cost.

4. Registering with Key In Properties

Once you know your budget, register your requirements with us so we can match you with suitable homes.

You can register:

• Online
• By phone
• In person at our office

We’ll send property alerts via SMS, email or post based on your preferences.

5. Viewing Properties

This is where the excitement begins.

Before viewing, it helps to identify your “Must Haves” and “Nice to Haves”. Consider the needs of everyone in your household to ensure your new home works for all.

Booking Viewings

• Monday–Friday: 10am–5pm
• Saturday: 9am–11am
• Book online through our property search pages
• Viewings are usually accompanied by our team

After each viewing, we’ll follow up to gather your feedback and answer any questions.

Property Search Service

For busy buyers, we offer a dedicated search service designed to save you time and effort. Contact us to learn more.

6. Making an Offer

Once you’ve found the right property, we’ll submit your offer to the seller both verbally and in writing—usually the same day.

Negotiations may follow, and our experienced consultants will work to achieve the best outcome for all parties. There is no legal obligation until contracts are signed.

7. Exchange & Completion

When your offer is accepted:

• The seller’s solicitor prepares the Contract of Sale
• Your solicitor reviews the contract, raises enquiries and completes searches
• Once all checks are satisfactory and your mortgage offer is issued, you sign the contract and pay your deposit (typically 5–10%)

Exchange of Contracts

The agreement becomes legally binding at this stage.

Completion

Completion can take place on the same day or up to 28 days later. Your solicitor transfers the remaining funds, and once confirmed, you can collect your keys from us.

We’ll also provide a welcome pack including meter readings, stopcock locations and other useful information.

We’re Here to Help

Whether you’re just starting your search or ready to make an offer, our team is here to support you every step of the way.

Key In Properties 2 Queens Road, Shipley, BD18 4SJ
Email: info@keyinproperties.co.uk
Phone: 01274 584457