How long does a mortgage application really take?
On average, the whole mortgage process – from initial enquiry to getting your keys – takes between 6 to 12 weeks. But that can vary based on how complex your situation is, how fast documents are provided, and how quick your lender is.
Here’s a stage-by-stage breakdown of what happens, how long each bit might take, and what you need to do to keep things moving.
What should you do before applying?
Timeline: 1–2 weeks (or more if you’re still house-hunting)
This prep stage is where you get your financial ducks in a row. Start by checking your credit report (Experian, Equifax, or TransUnion in the UK), reducing unnecessary debt, and saving for your deposit.
Top tip: Get a Mortgage in Principle (MIP) – sometimes called a Decision in Principle (DIP). It gives you an idea of how much you might borrow and shows estate agents and sellers you’re serious.
When do you speak to a mortgage broker?
Timeline: 1–2 days for initial chat
Chatting to a mortgage broker – like us at Quick Mortgages – can save you heaps of time and hassle. We’ll look at your financial situation and recommend the best lenders and deals (and we’re fee-free, too!).
We’ll also help you gather the right paperwork to speed things up.
What you’ll typically need:
Proof of income (payslips or accounts if self-employed)
Bank statements
ID and address verification
Proof of deposit
What happens once you submit your mortgage application?
Timeline: 2–4 weeks
This is when your formal mortgage application goes in. The lender will assess your income, outgoings, credit history, and the property you want to buy.
Here’s what’s happening behind the scenes:
Underwriting: This is the lender’s deep-dive into your finances.
Valuation: They’ll arrange a valuation to make sure the property is worth what you’re paying.
Additional checks: They may ask for more documents or clarification.
If all goes well, you’ll get a mortgage offer – essentially a “yes” from the lender.
When do you instruct a solicitor?
Timeline: Immediately after your offer is accepted
Your solicitor (or conveyancer) handles all the legal stuff. They’ll:
Carry out property searches
Liaise with the seller’s solicitor
Handle contracts and deposit transfers
Manage the exchange and completion
Top tip: You can compare solicitors and get things moving even before your mortgage offer comes in.
How long between mortgage offer and exchange?
Timeline: 2–4 weeks
Once your mortgage offer is in hand, your solicitor finishes the legal legwork. Once both sides are ready, you’ll exchange contracts – at this point, you’re legally committed.
You’ll also agree a completion date (the day you get the keys).
What happens on completion day?
Timeline: Usually 1–2 weeks after exchange
Your solicitor sends the funds to the seller’s solicitor, the sale is finalised, and you get the keys. Time to pop the champagne (or start unpacking boxes!).
What could delay the mortgage process?
Even the smoothest applications can hit bumps. Here are common delays:
Missing paperwork or slow responses
Issues in the property chain
Down-valuations (if the lender thinks the property isn’t worth the price)
Legal complications or slow searches
Best advice: Stay responsive, be organised, and use a broker who can chase things up on your behalf.
How can you speed things up?
Here’s what helps:
Have your documents ready from the get-go
Get a Mortgage in Principle early
Use a proactive solicitor and broker
Stay in regular contact and respond quickly to any requests
Final thoughts – is it really that stressful?
It doesn’t have to be! With the right support and clear expectations, getting a mortgage can feel surprisingly smooth. At Quick Mortgages, we’re with you every step of the way – answering your questions, chasing lenders, and making the process less of a headache.
Want to get started or just curious about what you could borrow? Give us a shout – it’s free, friendly, and we don’t do pressure.
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Disclaimer:
This article is for general guidance purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Mortgage products and their terms can vary, and it is important to seek advice from a qualified, regulated professional who can assess your individual circumstances. Please ensure you consider your unique needs before making any financial decisions.
While every effort is made to ensure that the information provided on this blog is accurate and up-to-date, we do not guarantee its completeness or accuracy. The mortgage market can change rapidly, and the information on this blog may become outdated. We recommend verifying any information before acting on it and seeking tailored advice.
THINK CAREFULLY BEFORE SECURING OTHER DEBTS AGAINST YOUR HOME. YOUR HOME OR PROPERTY MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON A MORTGAGE OR ANY OTHER DEBT SECURED ON IT.
