What happens on completion day?

After weeks or sometimes months of viewings, paperwork, surveys and waiting, completion day is the moment everything finally comes together. It is the day buyers have been counting down to and sellers have been preparing for. The removals van is booked, boxes are stacked by the door, and excitement is mixed with a little nervous anticipation.

But what actually happens on completion day? Understanding the process helps remove uncertainty and ensures the day runs as smoothly as possible.

Completion day is the final stage of the home buying and selling process. It is the day legal ownership of the property officially transfers from the seller to the buyer.

Once completion has taken place, the buyer can collect the keys and legally move into their new home. For sellers, it marks the point where responsibility for the property passes on and the transaction is fully finalised.

In simple terms, completion day is when the property officially changes hands.

Although it may feel like the day revolves around moving boxes, most of the important work actually happens behind the scenes between solicitors and banks.

Here is how completion day typically unfolds:

Before completion, the buyer’s conveyancing solicitor ensures all mortgage conditions have been satisfied and requests the mortgage funds from the lender. At the same time, the seller’s solicitor prepares final figures, including any outstanding mortgage balance that needs to be repaid.

Both solicitors produce completion statements outlining payments made, remaining balances and any fees due on the day.

Transfer of funds

On completion day itself, the buyer’s solicitor transfers the purchase money through the banking system to the seller’s solicitor. This is the key moment in the entire process.

Funds usually move late morning to early afternoon, although timings can vary depending on banking queues and property chains.

Confirmation of completion

Once the seller’s solicitor receives the money, they confirm completion has taken place. Any existing mortgage on the property is redeemed, estate agent fees are settled, and legal ownership officially transfers.

The estate agent is then authorised to release the keys to the buyer.

Key collection and moving in

After confirmation, buyers can collect their keys and move into the property. This is often the moment everything finally feels real.

Completion normally takes place between 7 and 28 days after contracts are exchanged. The exact timing is agreed between the buyer and seller and can depend on moving arrangements, mortgage requirements or chain coordination.

On the day itself, completion is rarely instant. The transfer of funds can take several hours, which is why patience is often required before keys are released.

Preparation makes a significant difference. Here are some key things to remember on completion day:

• Load your belongings into the removals van early
  
  
• Carry out a final check of the property before leaving
  
  
• Stay in contact with your solicitor for updates
  
  
• Ensure completion statements and payments are confirmed
  
  
• Wait for legal confirmation before collecting keys
  
  
• Vacate the property at the agreed time, usually by early afternoon
  
  
• Collect your keys once completion is confirmed
  
  
• Move into your new home
  
  
• Ensure stamp duty funds have been provided to your solicitor if applicable
  

Not necessarily. Completion day simply marks the legal transfer of ownership. Some buyers choose to delay moving in if they plan to renovate or carry out work before living in the property.

However, in many transactions, especially where there is a property chain, buyers and sellers move on the same day to keep everything progressing smoothly.

Even though you may be focused on unpacking and settling in, there are still a few final administrative steps taking place behind the scenes.

Your solicitor will handle post completion tasks such as paying stamp duty (if applicable) and registering your ownership with the Land Registry. As long as you have transferred any required funds to them, these steps are managed on your behalf.

The period between exchange of contracts and completion is typically 1 to 4 weeks. This window allows both parties to organise removals, prepare finances and finalise practical arrangements before the big day.

If you are considering a move and want to understand where you stand in today’s market, the first step is knowing what your property is worth. A professional valuation gives you clarity, helps you plan your next move with confidence, and ensures you are making informed decisions from the very beginning. Book your valuation today and take the first step towards your next chapter.