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How your completion day might look

Ross McKenzie

What to expect on completion day - A guide for buyers and sellers


Completion day is the moment everyone has been waiting for; the day the property officially changes hands. While it’s an exciting milestone, it’s important to understand how the process works to keep expectations realistic. For both buyers and sellers, completion day can feel like a whirlwind, but knowing what to expect will help things run smoothly.


What is completion day?


Completion day is the final step in the property transaction. It’s the day when:


  • The buyer’s solicitor transfers the remaining funds to the seller’s solicitor.

  • Legal ownership of the property is officially transferred to the buyer.

  • The buyer collects the keys and can move in.


It’s important to remember that the solicitor, not the estate agent, manages this process. The solicitor handles the transfer of funds and legal documentation, while the agent’s role is limited to being available to hand over the keys once everything is finalised. They cannot do this until they have had a 'key release' update from the solicitor.


What completion day looks like for sellers


  1. Waiting for Funds

    Your solicitor will notify you once they’ve received the money from the buyer’s solicitor. This usually happens late morning or early afternoon, depending on how quickly the banking system processes the funds.

  2. Vacating the Property

    You’ll need to vacate the property and leave it in the agreed condition by the time completion occurs. This includes removing all personal belongings unless otherwise arranged with the buyer.

  3. Handover of Keys

    Once your solicitor confirms receipt of the funds, they’ll give the green light for the estate agent to release the keys to the buyer.


What completion day looks like for buyers


  1. Final Checks

    On the morning of completion day, your solicitor will confirm the final amount you need to transfer to complete the purchase (if this hasn’t been done already). This includes the purchase price, minus any deposit already paid, plus legal fees and other associated costs.

  2. Transfer of Funds

    Your solicitor will send the final funds to the seller’s solicitor. This process is dependent on the speed of the banking system and can take a few hours.

  3. Collecting the Keys

    Once the seller’s solicitor confirms receipt of funds, the estate agent will release the keys. You’ll officially be the owner and can move into your new home.


Key points to keep in mind


  • Solicitors Are in Control:

    While your estate agent is there to assist, it’s your solicitor who manages the entire completion process, from transferring funds to confirming ownership. If there are any delays, it’s typically due to the funds clearing or last-minute issues with paperwork - not the agent.

  • Timing Is Flexible:

    Completion doesn’t happen at a set time. It’s typically finalised by early afternoon, but delays can occur, especially in a long chain. Be prepared for some waiting and make sure to manage the expectations of your removal team.

  • Be Accessible:

    Stay reachable by phone throughout the day in case your solicitor or agent needs to contact you with updates or instructions.


What Open Moove suggests next


Whether you’re buying or selling, preparation is key to making completion day stress-free:


  • Sellers: Ensure the property is ready for handover. Leave all keys, manuals, and relevant documents with the agent or solicitor.

  • Buyers: Confirm funds are transferred promptly and double-check arrangements for collecting the keys.


At Open Moove, we help make completion day as seamless as possible by keeping you informed and connected throughout the moving process.


Completion day is about turning a page - let Open Moove help you write the next chapter.



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