Your home-buying checklist
Your next home.
A clearer plan.
A practical checklist to help you prepare for a property purchase, from your first conversation to collecting the keys.
General information · Updated 9 October 2026
Start with your plans
Think about the property you want, your preferred location and your timetable. Tell your adviser whether you are buying your first home, moving or purchasing as a business landlord, so the conversation fits your circumstances.
Bring your budget into focus
Set out your available deposit, income, regular commitments and expected purchase costs. Use the repayment calculator as an illustration, then discuss what a lender may assess and what monthly spending feels manageable for you.
Get your documents ready
Gather the identity, income, bank statement and deposit information your adviser requests. Requirements vary by lender. Use the application documents guide as a starting point and send sensitive documents only through the agreed channel.
Understand the application stages
An agreement in principle can help you plan, but it is not a guaranteed mortgage offer. A full application involves further checks. Read your mortgage illustration and ask about rates, fees, conditions and repayment terms before deciding to proceed.
Keep the purchase moving
Stay in contact with your adviser and solicitor, respond to requests and review the conditions attached to any mortgage offer. The legal process and property chain can affect timing, so confirm arrangements before committing to a moving date.
This guide is general information, not a personalised mortgage recommendation. Mortgage eligibility, costs and product features depend on your circumstances and the lender. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.
Your next step starts with a conversation.
Tell us what you’re planning. We’ll help you understand the options and explain what comes next.