Ensure your credit report is accurate and avoid taking out new loans shortly before applying for a mortgage. Step 2: Property Search and Making an Offer Once you have your AIP, you can begin viewing homes. The complete guide to buying a house in 2025 - Better.co.uk

Buying a house in England typically takes on average, though this can vary depending on whether you are in a "chain" of other buyers and sellers. Step 1: Get Mortgage-Ready

Before looking at houses, you need to understand your budget and prove your reliability to lenders.

You usually need at least 5–10% of the property's value. Larger deposits often unlock lower interest rates.

This is a statement from a lender estimating how much they will let you borrow based on a soft credit check. Most estate agents require an AIP before they will even let you view properties or make an offer.