You’ve found the perfect property in Cardiff or the surrounding area — perhaps a modern home in Lisvane, a period property in Pontcanna, or a waterfront apartment in Penarth. Your offer has been accepted. Congratulations!
But before you book the removals van or start browsing for furniture, there are several crucial steps you’ll need to take to secure your new home and avoid delays.
At Fortis Estate Agents, we specialise in helping buyers navigate the Cardiff property market, particularly in the £500,000+ price range. Here’s what to do immediately after your offer is accepted.
Once your offer is accepted, your estate agent will request a few key items to formalise the sale:
Proof of funds for your deposit
Identification documents and recent bank statements
Your mortgage agreement in principle
Contact details for your chosen conveyancing solicitor
Your plans regarding a property survey
Being ready with this information helps move things forward quickly — especially vital in a competitive, high-value market where delays could lead to gazumping.
You want to avoid other buyers swooping in at the last minute. So, ask your estate agent to mark the property as Sold Subject to Contract (SSTC) and cancel any further viewings.
This is especially important in Cardiff’s most desirable neighbourhoods, where homes above £500,000 are in high demand. Removing the property from online portals helps prevent bidding wars and gives you peace of mind.
The conveyancing process officially begins now. Instruct your solicitor as soon as your offer is accepted so they can begin:
Ordering local authority and environmental searches
Reviewing the draft contract
Handling Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) and legal documentation
Liaising with the seller’s solicitor to progress toward exchange
If you don’t yet have a solicitor, Fortis can recommend trusted local conveyancers familiar with Cardiff’s premium property sector. Acting quickly at this stage helps prevent delays later on.
Your mortgage in principle needs to become a formal mortgage offer. Now is the time to:
Submit your full mortgage application
Provide supporting documentation (income, credit, ID)
Book a mortgage valuation through your lender
If you're buying a higher-value home, you may require a bespoke mortgage product. A mortgage broker can be helpful here, especially if your financial situation is more complex.
Although surveys aren’t legally required, they are strongly recommended — especially when investing in premium homes across Cardiff and South Wales.
Types of surveys include:
Homebuyer Report – Suitable for newer, well-maintained properties
Full Building Survey – Ideal for older or larger properties (common in Cardiff suburbs like Llandaff and Roath Park)
Your surveyor will check for structural issues, damp, and other potential concerns that could affect your decision or allow you to renegotiate.
Once your solicitor has completed all legal checks and your mortgage offer is in place, you’ll reach the exchange of contracts. This is when the sale becomes legally binding.
Next, a completion date will be agreed — often within one to two weeks of exchange. On that day, your solicitor will:
Confirm all funds have been transferred
Register you as the new legal owner
Inform Fortis so we can hand you the keys to your new home
If you're still looking for a home in Cardiff, Penarth, or the Vale of Glamorgan, the team at Fortis Estate Agents is here to help. We specialise in providing tailored advice for buyers seeking high-quality homes in desirable areas.
📞 Call us today on 029 2056 1111
📧 Email: hello@fortis.homes
🌐 Browse our listings at fortis.homes
How long does it take to complete a house purchase after my offer is accepted?
The typical timeline is 6–12 weeks, depending on factors such as chain length, solicitor response times, and mortgage processing.
What is gazumping and how do I avoid it?
Gazumping happens when a seller accepts your offer but later takes a higher one. Reduce the risk by having paperwork ready, acting quickly, and ensuring the property is marked SSTC.
Is a survey really necessary?
While optional, a survey is highly recommended, especially for older or high-value homes. It protects you from hidden issues and could save you money later.
Can Fortis recommend a solicitor or mortgage advisor?
Yes. We work with a trusted network of professionals across Cardiff and can connect you with the right people for your property purchase.
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