Moving day is the culmination of weeks of anticipation and planning. As a first-time buyer, this is the moment you’ve been waiting for — the day you finally get the keys to your new home! In this chapter, we’ll guide you through the intricacies of completion day, shedding light on the roles of conveyancers, lenders, and estate agents, while providing valuable tips to ensure a smooth transition.
The Behind-the-Scenes
Completion day involves a well-orchestrated process that goes beyond the excitement of receiving keys. While you’re busy with last-minute packing and overseeing the removal process, your conveyancer is hard at work. Here’s a breakdown of what happens behind the scenes:
Money Matters:
- Your conveyancer secures the funds from your mortgage lender.
- Final checks are conducted, and the purchase money is transferred to the seller via the banking system.
- All outstanding charges, including estate agent fees, are settled.
Key Release:
The estate agent is instructed to release the keys once the seller’s solicitor confirms receipt of the balance.
A comprehensive completion statement is prepared, detailing all payments made and received.
You are promptly notified of the completion, signalling the green light for your move.
Your Role on Completion Day
Feeling a bit anxious on completion day is entirely normal, but there are steps you can take to contribute to a seamless process:
Be Organized:
- Pack in advance to minimize tasks on completion day, facilitating a swift exit from your old property.
Stay Contactable:
- Keep your phone charged and easily accessible. This ensures quick responses to any unexpected issues that may arise.
Be Prepared:
- Keep all important documents in one place for easy access during the move.
Settling Into Your New Home
Once you’ve arrived at your new abode, take a moment to make the transition smoother:
Organization is Key:
- Set up a station with refreshments for you and your removal team.
- Facilitate an efficient unpacking process by color-coding boxes and labelling rooms.
Check and Double-Check:
- Verify that all keys work, and inspect the property for any items left behind by the previous owners.
- Take utility meter readings and ensure the property is secure, especially if you have children or pets.
Post-Move Essentials:
Unpack your moving day survival kit, assemble beds, and ensure essential appliances are plugged in and functional.
Congratulations! You’re a Homeowner
Once the dust has settled and your belongings are in place, take a moment to celebrate. You’ve officially made the leap from aspiring homeowner to proud property owner. Now, the exciting part begins—decorating your new abode to make it uniquely yours.
Handling Hiccups: What If Things Go Wrong?
While we don’t want to be pessimistic, it’s essential to be aware of potential challenges:
Gazumping:
- Act quickly to progress the sale and reduce the likelihood of being gazumped.
- Obtain a mortgage in principle to build trust with the seller.
Mortgage Difficulties:
- Follow advice in the mortgage section to minimize issues and delays.
Survey Challenges:
- If issues arise, negotiate with the seller based on the surveyor’s report.
Chain Collapse:
- Minimize risks by avoiding properties with an upward chain.