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Completion day is when your home purchase is finalised and ownership officially transfers from the seller to you. It’s the stage that many buyers have been working towards since their offer was accepted. Although the process usually happens behind the scenes between your conveyancer, the seller’s conveyancer and your mortgage lender, there are still a few important things to know before collecting the keys. In this guide, we’ll explain what happens on completion day and what you can expect.
Completion day is when ownership of the property officially transfers to the buyer.
Your conveyancer and mortgage lender work together to transfer the purchase funds.
You'll usually be able to collect the keys once the seller's conveyancer confirms completion.
The exact timing varies for every property transaction.
Your conveyancer will let you know when completion has taken place.
How HTG Mortgages Can Help
At HTG Mortgages, I work with over 120 lenders across the UK, meaning we have access to a wide range of mortgage products to suit all types of borrowers. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking to remortgage, we can help you determine how much you can borrow and find the right mortgage for your circumstances.
We also provide ongoing support, regularly checking your options after your mortgage is secured, ensuring that you never miss out on a lower rate.
What Is Completion Day?
Completion day is the final stage of buying a property. Once the purchase funds have been transferred and received, legal ownership passes to the buyer and the transaction is complete.
What Happens on Completion Day?
On completion day:
- Your mortgage lender sends the mortgage funds to your conveyancer (where applicable).
- Your conveyancer transfers the purchase money to the seller’s conveyancer.
- The seller’s conveyancer confirms receipt of the funds.
- The estate agent is authorised to release the keys.
- You can usually move into your new home.
Most of this happens without you needing to take any action.
When Do I Get the Keys?
You’ll normally collect the keys once the seller’s conveyancer has confirmed completion and authorised their release. The exact time varies depending on when the funds are received and processed.
Speak to an expert
Whether you’re buying your first home, moving house or remortgaging, HTG Mortgages is here to make the process as simple and stress-free as possible. I’ll compare mortgages from over 120 lenders, guide you every step of the way and help you find the right mortgage for your circumstances.
Can Completion Be Delayed?
Sometimes. Delays can happen if there are issues transferring funds, unexpected banking delays or other matters that need resolving before completion can take place. Your conveyancer will keep you updated if anything affects the agreed timetable.
What Should I Do Before Completion Day?
Before completion, it’s sensible to:
- Arrange your removals.
- Organise buildings insurance where required.
- Notify utility providers.
- Pack essential items separately.
- Confirm arrangements with your conveyancer.
Being organised can help the day run more smoothly.
What Happens After Completion?
After completion, your conveyancer will deal with any remaining legal work, such as registering your ownership with HM Land Registry and, where applicable, arranging payment of Stamp Duty Land Tax.
Can I Move In Straight Away?
In many cases, buyers move into the property on completion day once the keys have been collected. However, the timing varies depending on the individual transaction and when completion is confirmed.
Who Will Tell Me When Everything Is Complete?
Your conveyancer will confirm when completion has taken place. Once they’ve received confirmation, the estate agent will usually be authorised to release the keys.
Need Personal Mortgage Advice?
Every buyer’s situation is different. While this guide explains the general rules, the right mortgage for you depends on your income, deposit, credit history and future plans. If you’d like tailored advice, I’m here to help, with whole-of-market coverage.
