How Long Does It Take to Get a Mortgage?

A Step-by-Step Guide

One of the most common questions people ask when buying or refinancing a home is how long the mortgage process actually takes. It is an important consideration, whether you are a first-time buyer trying to plan a move, a homeowner remortgaging before an existing deal ends, or someone purchasing within a property chain.

The answer depends on several factors. Some applications move through quickly, while others take longer due to income structure, property issues, or legal delays.

Understanding the different stages of the process can help you plan more realistically and reduce avoidable hold-ups.

Typical Mortgage Timescales at a Glance

For straightforward cases, a mortgage offer may be issued within two to four weeks. More complex applications, or those involving survey or legal complications, can take eight to twelve weeks or longer from application to completion. Remortgages are often quicker than purchases because there is no property chain involved.

Below is a step-by-step outline of what usually happens and how long each stage may take.

Stage 1: Agreement in Principle (AIP)

Typical timeframe: 1 to 5 days

An Agreement in Principle (sometimes called a Decision in Principle) gives an early indication of how much a lender may be willing to lend, based on basic income and credit information. Most lenders can provide this quickly, sometimes on the same day, although additional checks or clarification can extend the process slightly.

An AIP is not a mortgage offer, but it can be useful when making an offer on a property.

Stage 2: Submitting the Mortgage Application

Typical timeframe: 1 to 3 days

Once an offer has been accepted on a property, the full mortgage application can be submitted. This requires supporting documentation such as proof of identity, proof of address, income evidence and recent bank statements.

Applications tend to move faster when documents are complete and accurate at the outset. Missing or inconsistent information is one of the most common causes of delay at this stage.

Stage 3: Lender Assessment and Underwriting

Typical timeframe: 1 to 3 weeks

During underwriting, the lender reviews the application in detail. This includes checking income, credit history, financial commitments and the suitability of the property.

Applications involving self-employed income, variable earnings or previous credit issues may take longer, as lenders often request further information or clarification.

Stage 4: Property Valuation

Typical timeframe: 3 to 10 days

Most lenders require a valuation to confirm that the property provides suitable security for the loan. Some valuations are completed electronically, while others require a physical inspection.

If the valuation raises concerns or the property is valued lower than expected, additional discussions may be needed before the application can proceed.

Stage 5: Mortgage Offer Issued

Typical timeframe: same day to 1 week after valuation

Once underwriting and valuation checks are complete, the lender may issue a formal mortgage offer. This confirms the loan amount, interest rate and conditions attached to the mortgage.

Most offers are valid for a limited period, often between three and six months.

Stage 6: Conveyancing and Legal Work

Typical timeframe: 4 to 12 weeks

Legal work is often the longest part of the process. Solicitors or conveyancers carry out searches, review contracts and liaise with all parties involved in the transaction.

Local authority search times, the complexity of the property and the length of the property chain can all affect how long this stage takes.

Stage 7: Exchange and Completion

Typical timeframe: 1 to 4 weeks

Once legal checks are complete and contracts are exchanged, a completion date is agreed. Mortgage funds are then released, and ownership transfers on completion day.

How Timescales Can Vary

• First-time buyers often complete within 8 to 12 weeks, depending on the property and legal process.

• Remortgages typically complete within 4 to 6 weeks, as there is no chain.

• Purchases within a chain can take longer, as progress depends on multiple parties.

Planning Ahead Makes a Difference

Mortgage timescales are influenced by preparation, responsiveness and the complexity of both the borrower’s circumstances and the property. Having documents ready early, responding promptly to requests and choosing experienced professionals can all help reduce delays.

Final Thoughts

Mortgage timescales vary widely depending on personal circumstances, property type and the progress of legal work. While some applications move through quickly, most buyers and homeowners should plan for a longer process, particularly where chains, valuations or local authority searches are involved.

Understanding each stage in advance helps set realistic expectations and reduces last-minute pressure.

If you would like to discuss your own circumstances, understand likely timescales, or explore your mortgage options before applying, speaking with a mortgage broker can help you plan with greater clarity and confidence. Getting advice early often makes the process smoother from start to finish. Please get in touch.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

Barry, The Mortgage Network - Helping you start the year with a clear plan, confident decisions and a mortgage that works for you.