Getting your UK mortgage offer is one of the most exciting moments in the home-buying journey. The lender has officially confirmed in writing that they’re willing to lend you the agreed amount for your chosen property. But what happens after a mortgage offer is issued?
Many foreign nationals think the hard work is done at this stage. The truth is, there are still a few important steps before you get your keys. This guide explains what a mortgage offer means, what happens next, and the key mistakes to avoid along the way.
What a Mortgage Offer Really Means
A mortgage offer (sometimes called a formal mortgage offer or binding offer) is the lender’s written confirmation that:
- They’ve assessed your application and documents
- They’re happy with your chosen property
- They commit to lending you the agreed amount
Most offers are valid for about six months, though this can vary by lender.
It’s important to remember: an offer does not mean you’re finished. The legal process still needs to be completed before you officially own the property.
What Happens After a Mortgage Offer
Once your offer is issued, your solicitor (or conveyancer) takes over the next stage of the process. Here’s what they typically do:
- Check the property title – making sure the seller has the legal right to sell.
- Conduct searches – local authority searches, water & drainage, environmental checks, and more.
- Review contracts – going back and forth with the seller’s solicitor until both sides agree on the terms.
- Raise enquiries – if something looks unusual (for example, missing planning permissions), your solicitor will flag it for discussion.
During this time, expect the process to take 8–12 weeks on average. If the property is a new build or has no chain, it could be quicker. If there’s a chain or issues in the searches, it may take longer.
What NOT to Do After a Mortgage Offer
Even with an offer in place, the lender can still run last-minute checks. To avoid problems, make sure you don’t do the following:
- Don’t change jobs before completion (lenders may re-check your employment).
- Don’t take out new loans or credit cards – this can affect your credit score.
- Don’t delay paperwork – respond quickly to your solicitor and provide documents promptly.
Being proactive and responsive helps speed up the process and reduces the risk of delays.
How Long Until I Get My Keys?
From the moment your mortgage offer is issued, the average timeline to completion is 8–12 weeks.
- Faster: If it’s a straightforward transaction or new build.
- Slower: If there’s a chain, busy solicitors, or problems with searches.
Remember, the quicker you return documents and stay in touch with your solicitor, the faster you’ll move toward completion.
Final Thoughts
Getting your UK mortgage offer is a huge milestone, but it’s not the final step. By understanding the process after the offer, staying responsive, and avoiding common mistakes, you’ll be better prepared for the final stretch toward picking up your keys.
At First Time Finance, we specialise in helping foreign nationals navigate the entire UK mortgage process, from pre-approval to completion. If you’re ready to take the next step, get in touch and we’ll guide you through it.
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