Buying a home
Buying a home is one of life’s biggest milestones; it’s exciting, full of possibilities, and sometimes, a little overwhelming. That is where we come in.
At Wykeham & Co, we will take you step by step through the buying process, explaining what happens next and keeping you updated from the start of the purchase process to the very end. We make sure everything is clear, manageable and most importantly, personal.
Support every step of the way
If you are a first-time buyer, we understand how new and unfamiliar the process can seem. To help you feel at ease, we take extra time to explain every stage, from your offer being accepted to the moment you collect your keys.
For those moving home or buying again, our approach is just as thorough. We handle all the legal details behind the scenes so you can focus on the exciting part: planning your move and settling in.
How we help you buy your home
Buying a home is a big decision. Especially if it’s your first! And our job is to make the legal side feel as clear and straightforward as possible. Here’s what the process looks like in simple terms.
1. Getting started
Before anything else, we’ll need to confirm your identity, even if you’ve already done this with your estate agent or mortgage lender. This is quick and secure through our online portal.
2. The contract pack
Once the seller’s solicitor sends us the contract pack, we’ll review the draft contract and title documents. We will also check official forms completed by the seller and check any relevant property service charges.
3. Ordering your searches
Next, we’ll order your searches, which should uncover anything that might affect the property or your future plans.
4. Enquiries and report
Once we’ve reviewed the contract pack and search results, we’ll raise any queries with the seller’s solicitor. When all enquiries have been satisfied, we’ll prepare your full report on the property. We’ll also arrange for you to sign the contract ready for exchange.
5. Exchange of contracts
When everyone is happy and ready to proceed, you’ll pay your deposit (normally 10 per cent).
Exchange makes the purchase legally binding. The contract will stipulate the date for the completion of your purchase.
6. Exchange to completion
In the lead-up to completion, we’ll carry out final checks from Land Registry to Certificate of Title to your mortgage lender.
We’ll keep you fully updated so you know exactly what to expect on moving day.
7. Completion day
Once your lender’s funds and any remaining balance from you have arrived, we’ll send the purchase monies to the seller’s solicitor.
As soon as they confirm receipt, the keys can be released via the estate agent, and we’ll let you know the moment you officially own your new home.
8. After completion
After completion, we’ll take care of the final legal steps including pay stamp duty and register the property in your name with HM Land Registry.
Keeping things personal
Every buyer’s journey is different. Some prefer regular calls, others are happy with quick updates by email; we adapt to what works for you.
Our goal is to make you feel supported, informed and in control every step of the way. We are proud of our strong relationships with estate agents, both local and national which helps keep everything moving smoothly and on schedule.
Residential conveyancing services
Alongside helping you buy, sell and remortgage your home, we also support clients with a range of related residential conveyancing matters, including:
- Transfer of equity when ownership needs to change
- Lease extensions for leasehold properties
- Equity release matters where a lender has specific requirements
- Shared ownership purchases and staircasing
- Voluntary land registration for unregistered land
- Property auctions including reviewing auction legal packs, preparing packs when selling, and managing the post-auction completion process
Fixed fees and honest advice
Our quotes are intended to be fixed, with no hidden extras or surprises. If anything changes along the way, we’ll always talk it through with you first.
Here to help you move forward
Buying a home should feel exciting, not stressful. We are here to make that happen. Guiding you from offer to ownership with clarity and care.
Frequently asked questions
Our customers often have similar questions when they first get in touch, so we’ve put together this helpful FAQ section to give you quick, clear answers. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, our team is always happy to help, just reach out and we’ll guide you from there.
We provide a range of professional legal services designed to meet the needs of both residential and commercial clients. From conveyancing services, to Wills we are pleased to offer expert guidance. Please visit our Conveyancing Services page for full details.
You can request a free, no‑obligation quote by completing our online contact form, emailing us directly, or calling our team. We aim to respond within 24 hours.
Whilst working principally in Wiltshire, the Cotswolds, London, and the South West, we also serve customers nationally.