Preparing for completion - Checklist and final arrangements
Completion day is the final step in the home-buying process, where ownership of the property officially transfers from the seller to the buyer. To ensure a smooth handover, it’s essential to have everything in place and follow a checklist for final arrangements. This guide will walk you through what to expect on completion day and how to prepare for a successful move.
1. Finalising legal and financial preparations
In the days leading up to completion, your solicitor will complete the remaining legal steps to ensure a seamless transition:
Transfer of funds: Your solicitor will arrange for the mortgage funds to be transferred to the seller’s solicitor on completion day. Ensure all funds (e.g., your deposit) are ready to avoid any delays.
Settlement of outstanding balances: The solicitor will also confirm that all outstanding balances, such as legal fees, taxes, and any other agreed costs, are settled as part of the final payment.
Completion statement review: Before completion day, review the completion statement from your solicitor, which details all expenses and payments. This helps you understand exactly what has been paid and any remaining balances.
2. Making moving day arrangements
Being organised with your moving plans will make completion day less stressful:
Book Your removal company: Schedule a reliable removal company for the completion date. If possible, confirm their arrival time and make arrangements for packing if you need assistance.
Prepare a moving checklist: Create a checklist of tasks to complete on moving day, from final cleaning to packing essential items. Staying organised will make the process smoother.
Label Your boxes: Label each box with the room it belongs to and any important contents. This will save time when unpacking and help the movers know where to place items in your new home.
3. What to expect on completion day
On completion day, ownership of the property officially changes hands, and you’ll be able to collect the keys once informed by your conveyancer:
Property inspection and metre readings: Before leaving your old property, take meter readings (gas, electricity, and water) and inform the utility companies of your move. This will help avoid confusion with final billing.
Key exchange: Once the solicitors confirm that the funds have been transferred, the estate agent will release the keys to the buyer. Coordinate with your agent to pick up or hand over the keys.
Final property walkthrough: Do a final walkthrough of your old property to ensure it’s clean and empty. This is especially important if you’re the seller, as it leaves a good impression for the new owners.
4. Settling into your new home
With the keys in hand, you can start settling into your new home:
Unpack essentials first: Start by unpacking essential items such as toiletries, bedding, and kitchen supplies. This will help you feel comfortable and settled on your first night.
Inspect the property: Walk through each room to ensure everything is as expected and note any issues that need addressing. Report any immediate concerns to your agent and solicitor.
Set up utilities and services: Contact your preferred utility providers to set up accounts in your name and arrange for internet and other services. Setting up these essentials will help you settle in faster.
What Open Moove Suggests Next
At Open Moove, we recommend these steps for a smooth completion and move-in experience:
Confirm all financial arrangements early: Double-check with your solicitor that all funds are in place and ready for completion day.
Use Open Moove’s moving day checklist: Our platform provides a comprehensive checklist for moving day, covering essential tasks from utility transfers to unpacking tips.
Settle in and start enjoying your new home: Moving can be stressful, so take time to relax and enjoy your new space. Open Moove offers resources and local connections to help make your new house feel like home.
By staying organised and following a checklist, you’ll be well-prepared for a smooth completion day, allowing you to start life in your new home with ease and confidence.
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