

The buying process
Buying a house is one of the most significant decisions you’ll ever make, and at Blackshaws Estate Agents, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. From organizing your finances and securing a mortgage to finding the perfect property and navigating the legal process, our expert team makes buying a home as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Understanding the property-buying journey is essential to making informed decisions. We’ll help you identify your budget, connect you with trusted mortgage advisors, and assist in finding properties that fit your lifestyle and goals. Whether it’s arranging viewings, negotiating offers, or ensuring everything runs smoothly through to completion, we’re dedicated to delivering expert advice and exceptional service.
Start your home-buying journey with Blackshaws Estate Agents today, and let our experience help you turn your dream home into a reality.
Step 1
Arrange a mortgage
Ensure that you get your finances in order and know exactly how much you can borrow, with an "in principle" agreement from your lender. Always speak to an independent mortgage adviser to find the best rates (we can help you with this) See preparing to buy for more information.
Step 2
Register with Us
As a buyer, by registering directly with us you put yourself at an advantage in terms to access to new properties before they go on the market. Watch our video for more information.
We are open 7 days a week until 9pm so call and register today!
Step 3
Finding the right property
Weigh up the important aspects of life - commuting time, school run, parking, garden. Satisfy these first before allowing the view or the extra storage space to sway you away from your reason for moving.
Step 4
Making an Offer
Once you have found the right property we will put your offer forward to the seller both verbally and in writing confirming any special conditions of the offer. At this point you may need to demonstrate, if requested, that you are in a position to proceed. (e.g. provide details of any related sale, provide evidence of your mortgage agreed in principle).
Buying a house can feel overwhelming, but breaking it down into manageable steps makes the journey straightforward and stress-free. Once you've arranged your mortgage and registered with Blackshaws, you’ll be well-positioned to find your dream property. With your finances in order and our expert team keeping you informed about the latest homes on the market, you can focus on what matters most—choosing a home that fits your lifestyle and needs. Whether it’s finding the perfect location or negotiating an offer, Blackshaws is here to guide you every step of the way.
Now that you’re ready to proceed, here’s what happens next...
Step 5
Agreeing a Sale
Once your offer has been accepted we will do the following:
- Write to all parties confirming the agreed price and conditions of sale
- Confirm when the property will be taken off the market
- Ask you to confirm your solicitor's details and mortgage broker details
- Upon receipt of the above we will prepare a memorandum of sale
Step 6
Formally Instruct your solicitor to proceed with the purchase
Your solicitor will do the following upon receipt of the draft contract from the seller:
- Raise enquiries
- Approve Contract
- Submit Searches
Step 7
Instruct A Survey
You will need to contact your bank or mortgage broker to proceed with your mortgage application. A survey of the property will be booked by a surveyor on behalf of your chosen mortgage lender to check for any structural issues and advise on the property's value.
After the mortgage valuation report is received, a formal mortgage offer will be sent to you and your solicitor which you will need to sign before it is returned.
Step 8
Legal process continues
Your solicitors will do the following once searches are back and/or replies to enquiries are received:
- Review replies to enquiries
- Raise additional enquiries from the results of searches, valuation/survey and any new information
Once your offer has been accepted, the focus shifts to finalizing the sale and progressing the legal and financial steps required to secure your new home. At this stage, Blackshaws works closely with all parties to ensure a smooth process—from confirming the sale details and preparing the memorandum of sale to assisting with solicitor and surveyor arrangements.
Your solicitor will take charge of important legal tasks like raising enquiries and approving contracts, while your lender organizes the property survey to assess its value and condition. With everything in motion, our team is here to ensure clear communication and keep things on track, so you can proceed confidently toward completion.
Here’s what happens next...
Step 9
Exchange of Contracts
Once your solicitor is satisfied with replies to all outstanding enquiries your solicitor will do the following:
- Review Entry file
- Report to you with search results, legal title, replies to enquiries and lease (if leasehold)
- Confirm agreed completions dates
- Exchange Contracts
Step 10
Completion and collect keys
Completion happens when the remaining moneys (usually 90%) are transferred from your solicitor to the seller's solicitors account.
We will release the keys once the money has cleared in the seller's account.
Congratulations you have bought a house!
Buying a house is an exciting journey, and at Blackshaws, we’re here to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. From arranging your mortgage to guiding you through the legal and financial steps, our expert team is by your side every step of the way. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned homeowner, we’ll provide the support, advice, and local expertise you need to find and secure your dream property.
If you’re ready to take the next step or have any questions about the buying process, we’d love to hear from you. Simply fill out the contact form below, and one of our friendly team members will be in touch to help you get started. Let’s make your property goals a reality today!