Get a free valuation

Get an instant valuation here or contact one of our offices

How much will the move cost me?

When should I arrange my mortgage?

What information will you require when I make an offer?

First off, we will need to know your position, whether you’re a first time buyer, if you have a related sale, if the property will be a buy-to-let etc. If you require a mortgage, we will need to see proof of deposit and an Agreement in Principle (AIP). If you don’t have this, we can refer you to one of our in-house financial advisors. For cash buyers, we will ask to see proof of funds or confirmation from your solicitor to that effect.

When will you need my solicitor’s details?

Your solicitor’s details will be required as soon as your offer is accepted. If you don’t have a solicitor or know of one who comes recommended, we can put you in touch with one of our preferred solicitors who specialise in conveyancing.

Will the property be taken off the market once my offer is accepted?

We usually advise the owner that the property should be withdrawn from the market as a gesture of goodwill, but ultimately it’s up to them. If it is withdrawn, we ask in return that you carry out certain tasks within an agreed timeframe, such as instructing your solicitor and organising the lender valuation

What type of survey should I get?

Assuming you are getting a mortgage, then the lender will carry out a valuation, which is a basic report that confirms whether the property you are buying is worth the amount you’ve agreed to pay. You are not obliged to have anything further, but many people do opt for a Homebuyers Report which is a more detailed survey intended to inform you, the buyer, on the soundness or otherwise of the property. More extensive (and expensive) by far is a building survey, which is usually required when a full assessment of the property is needed and is highly advisable for older properties or large or unusual buildings. Should potential issues arise, further surveys may be required, such as a damp survey or an electrical survey. If the survey information does bring problems to light, then you may wish to re-negotiate the agreed price.

How long does the process take once a sale is agreed?

Generally, the average sale will take between six to 12 weeks to reach exchange of contracts, but no two sales are the same with many factors having a bearing on exactly how long the process will take. If you need to work to a specific timescale, we recommend you make that clear at the time you make your offer. We also suggest holding off booking the removal van or anything else related to the move until a completion date has been confirmed.

What’s the difference between exchange and completion?

The exchange of contracts makes the purchase of the property legally binding and is also the point when your deposit must be lodged (usually ten per cent of the purchase price) and completion date agreed. Completion is the day when your solicitor transfers the remaining funds to the seller’s solicitor and you become the legal owner. You can now collect keys and take possession of the property.

What happens on the day of completion?

Once the remaining funds have gone into your seller’s solicitor’s account, we will get a call confirming completion has taken place. We then contact you to arrange collection of the keys – you can either pop into the office or we’ll meet you at the property.

Customer reviews

The service provided by the entire team at Butler and Stag is fantastic. From purchasing a plot, to the sale of the properties was run fantastically. Very professional outfit and a pleasure to work with. We certainly will be using Butler and Stag again in the near future. Matthew Hammond

Read more reviews
Our office Google reviews

Our office Google reviews

★★★★★ 4.9 Bow (London Office)

★★★★★ 5.0 Theydon Bois (West Essex Office)

★★★★★ 5.0 Buckhurst Hill Office

Find your next property