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Home Buying Guide

Your Complete Home Buying Guide

Everything you need to know about buying a home in England and Wales, from first steps to completion.

Understanding the Buying Process

Buying a home is often the largest purchase you'll make in your lifetime. This comprehensive guide walks you through every stage — from arranging your mortgage and instructing a solicitor, to making an offer and exchanging contracts.

Whether you're a first-time buyer or moving up the ladder, you'll find the information you need to make informed decisions at the right time. Properties in England and Wales take on average 60 days to sell and another 17 weeks from offer to completion — so understanding the process from the outset puts you firmly in control.

How to Buy guide cover showing red house icon with text 'HOW TO... BUY' and subtitle 'A guide for people looking to buy a home in England and Wales', with silhouettes of people below. Part of the How to Guides series by HM Government.

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