Tool · Completion planner

From reservation to the keys. Date by date.

Put in the day you reserve and when the builder expects to finish. Get a dated checklist, and see what needs revisiting if completion slips.

A guide, not advice Your dates stay in your browser

Your checklist

From reservation to the keys

12 November 2026Reserve the homePay the reservation fee and read the reservation agreement: how long the reservation lasts, whether the fee comes off the price, and what happens to it if you pull out.
12 November 2026 to 15 November 2026Instruct a solicitorA solicitor or licensed conveyancer who acts on new homes: the builder sends them the contract pack.
12 November 2026 to 19 November 2026Apply for your mortgageSend the full application with the reservation form. The lender values the home and issues the offer.
3 December 2026Mortgage offer issued (about)Check the date it runs out. Offers usually last about 6 months; some lenders give new homes longer, and many will extend.
10 December 2026Exchange contractsBy the end of the reservation period (28 days here). You pay the exchange deposit and the purchase is binding on both sides.
3 June 2027Mortgage offer runs outIf completion could fall after this day, ask the lender now how to extend the offer. The offer runs out before the completion window ends: ask the lender about an extension, or whether you would need to apply again.
10 June 2028Book a pre-completion inspectionAn independent snagging inspection before completion, or your own walk-round with a checklist.
17 June 2028 to 16 September 2028Notice to completeThe builder gives notice once the home is finished, often about 14 days ahead. Book removals and tell your landlord or buyer as soon as it comes.
1 July 2028 to 30 September 2028Complete and move inThe rest of the price is paid, you get the keys, and you take over the buildings insurance, energy, water and council tax.

A guide to the usual order, not advice: your reservation agreement, contract and mortgage offer set the real dates.