What to Expect on Moving Day When Buying and Selling Property in Ruislip & Pinner
Moving day can be stressful, especially when buying and selling a home in Ruislip or Pinner. As a trusted local estate agent , I’ll guide you through the key steps, from key handovers to avoiding delays. Whether you’re upsizing, downsizing, or relocating, this essential guide ensures a smooth move. Get expert tips for a hassle-free property move
What to Expect on Moving Day When Buying and Selling Property in Ruislip & Pinner
Moving day is an exciting yet stressful milestone in the property journey. Whether you’re buying your first home, upsizing, or downsizing, the day itself can be a whirlwind of logistics and emotions. If you’re both selling and buying on the same day, things can feel even more intense.
To help you prepare, here’s a guide on what to expect on moving day and how to make the process as smooth as possible.
1. Completion Day – The Legal Process
In the UK, the majority of property transactions complete on a Friday. On completion day, solicitors finalise the transaction by transferring the balance of funds from the buyer’s solicitor to the seller’s solicitor. Once the money is received, the keys are released, and ownership is officially transferred.
This process usually happens between 10 AM and 2 PM, but delays can occur if there are multiple transactions in a chain. Be prepared to wait for confirmation before accessing your new home.
2. Vacating Your Old Home
If you are selling, you will need to vacate the property by the time your solicitor confirms the funds have been transferred. Most contracts stipulate that you must leave by midday or early afternoon. Ensure your removal company is aware of these timings to avoid any last-minute stress.
To avoid delays:
Have all your packing done the day before.
Double-check every room, loft, and cupboard.
Leave behind instruction manuals, spare keys, and any agreed fixtures and fittings.
3. Collecting Keys for Your New Home
Once your solicitor confirms that completion has taken place, you can collect your keys. If your purchase is via an estate agent, they will release the keys once funds have cleared. If it’s a private sale, the seller may hand them over directly.
Be patient, as sometimes the transfer of funds takes longer than expected, especially if you are in a chain.
4. Moving In – The Essentials
When you step into your new home, you’ll likely be greeted by a mix of excitement and exhaustion. To make settling in easier:
Check the utilities – Take meter readings for gas, electricity, and water.
Secure your home – Change the locks if possible for added security.
Unpack the essentials – Set up a priority box with toiletries, a kettle, and key items like phone chargers.
Do a quick clean – Even if the property looks tidy, a quick wipe-down will make it feel fresher.
5. Common Moving Day Challenges
Despite the best planning, some common issues can arise:
Delays in receiving keys – This can happen if a seller hasn’t yet vacated or the funds haven’t cleared.
Removal van scheduling conflicts – Make sure your movers are flexible in case timings shift slightly.
Admin mix-ups – Keep solicitor and estate agent contact numbers handy to resolve any last-minute problems.
6. Settling Into Your New Home
The hard part is over, but there are still a few things to do:
Redirect your post if you haven’t already.
Register with local utilities, internet providers, and your council for tax purposes.
Introduce yourself to neighbours – building relationships early can be helpful.
James' Final Thought
Moving day is a big event, but with preparation and patience, it can be a rewarding experience. Start planning early, communicate with everyone involved, and take things one step at a time. Before you know it, you’ll be settling into your new home and making it your own.
If you're thinking of buying or selling in Ruislip, Pinner, or the surrounding areas, I’d love to help make your move as smooth as possible. Get in touch to discuss your property journey today!
James Burgess
07513137021
james@avocadopropertyagents.co.uk
