Signing a mortgage deed is a big moment. It often feels like you are right at the finish line, but in reality, it is one of the most important steps in a longer legal and financial process. If you are a first-time buyer or even someone who has moved before, it is completely normal to wonder what actually happens after you put pen to paper.
This guide explains, in simple terms, what happens after you sign a mortgage deed in the UK. It walks you through each stage, explains who does what, and helps you understand what to expect so there are no surprises.
What Does Signing A Mortgage Deed Really Mean?
When you sign a mortgage deed, you are legally agreeing to the mortgage lender’s terms. You are confirming that:
- You will repay the loan over the agreed period
- The property will act as security for the loan
- The lender has legal rights over the property until the mortgage is repaid
This document is legally binding. That is why it must be signed correctly and witnessed by an independent adult. Once signed, you cannot simply change your mind without serious legal and financial consequences.
However, signing the mortgage deed does not mean you own the property yet. Ownership only transfers on completion day.
Your Solicitor Sends The Signed Deed To The Lender
After you sign the mortgage deed, your solicitor or conveyancer sends it to your mortgage lender. This step confirms that you have formally accepted the mortgage offer.
At this stage, the lender will:
- Check the signed deed
- Carry out final administrative checks
- Prepare to release the mortgage funds
These checks are usually routine, but they are essential. The lender must be satisfied that everything is legally correct before any money is released.
Final Checks Before Exchange Of Contracts
Before contracts are exchanged, several things must fall into place. Your solicitor will make sure that:
- All searches are completed
- Any issues raised by the lender are resolved
- Buildings insurance is arranged (this is required from exchange)
- You have the deposit ready
This stage can feel slow, but it is designed to protect you. Once contracts are exchanged, you are legally committed to buying the property.
Exchange Of Contracts: The Sale Becomes Legally Binding
Exchange of contracts is a major milestone. This is the point where the transaction becomes legally binding for both you and the seller.
Once contracts are exchanged:
- You usually pay your deposit (often 10% of the purchase price)
- A fixed completion date is agreed
- Neither party can pull out without penalties
If you withdraw after exchange, you could lose your deposit and face legal action. That is why your solicitor will not exchange contracts until everything is in order.
What Happens Between Exchange And Completion?
The period between exchange and completion can be a few days or a few weeks. During this time, your solicitor will:
- Request the mortgage funds from the lender
- Prepare a completion statement showing all costs
- Carry out final searches
- Confirm arrangements with the seller’s solicitor
You may be asked to transfer the remaining balance (after your deposit) to your solicitor in advance of completion.
This stage is usually quiet for you, but behind the scenes, your solicitor is doing a lot of legal work to ensure completion goes smoothly.
Completion Day: When You Get The Keys
Completion day is when everything comes together. This is the day you officially become the owner of the property.
On completion day:
- Your solicitor transfers the purchase money to the seller’s solicitor
- The seller’s solicitor confirms receipt of funds
- The estate agent releases the keys to you
Once this happens, ownership legally transfers to you. You can move in and start living in your new home.
This is also the point at which your mortgage officially starts, even though your first payment usually comes later.
When Do Mortgage Repayments Start?
Most lenders take the first mortgage payment about one month after completion. This first payment can sometimes be slightly higher, as it may include interest from the day the mortgage funds were released.
To avoid missed payments:
- Set up a direct debit as soon as possible
- Check the amount and date of your first payment
- Keep track of future payment dates
Missing mortgage payments can affect your credit score and cause serious financial problems, so it is important to stay organised from the start.
Paying Stamp Duty Land Tax
If your purchase is above the Stamp Duty threshold, Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) must be paid. You do not usually pay this yourself.
Your solicitor will:
- Calculate how much Stamp Duty you owe
- Collect the amount from you
- Pay it to HMRC on your behalf
This payment must be made within a strict time limit after completion. Late payment can result in penalties and interest, which is why solicitors handle this as part of the conveyancing process.
Registering The Property With The Land Registry
After completion, your solicitor applies to the Land Registry to register:
- You as the new legal owner
- The lender’s mortgage against the property
The Land Registry keeps official records of land and property ownership in England and Wales. Registration protects your legal rights and confirms the lender’s interest in the property.
This process does not happen overnight. It can take weeks or even months, especially if the Land Registry is busy.
Receiving Confirmation Of Ownership
Once registration is complete:
- The Land Registry updates the official title register
- Your solicitor receives confirmation
- You are sent copies of the updated title information
Physical title deeds are no longer common. Ownership is now recorded electronically, but your solicitor will keep copies for your records.
At this point, the legal process is fully complete.
Understanding Your Ongoing Responsibilities
Signing a mortgage deed and completing a purchase comes with long-term responsibilities. Beyond monthly mortgage payments, you are now responsible for:
- Property maintenance and repairs
- Council tax
- Utility bills
- Buildings insurance
- Service charges or ground rent (if applicable)
Owning a home gives you security and stability, but it also requires careful budgeting and planning.
Fixed Vs Variable Interest Rates
After completion, it is important to understand how your mortgage interest works.
- Fixed-rate mortgages keep your interest rate the same for a set period, offering stability
- Variable-rate mortgages can go up or down depending on market conditions
Knowing when your fixed rate ends or how your variable rate works helps you plan ahead and avoid payment shocks.
What If Something Goes Wrong After Signing?
If problems arise after signing the mortgage deed but before exchange, your solicitor can usually resolve them. However, once contracts are exchanged, your options become limited.
That is why it is vital to:
- Read all documents carefully
- Ask questions if anything is unclear
- Use an experienced solicitor or conveyancer
Professional advice helps prevent costly mistakes at critical stages.
Why Professional Legal Help Matters
The mortgage and conveyancing process involves strict legal rules and deadlines. Having a qualified solicitor ensures that:
- Documents are signed and witnessed correctly
- Funds are transferred safely
- Legal risks are minimised
- Your interests are protected
Trying to handle these steps without expert help can lead to delays, financial loss, or legal disputes.
Final Thoughts
Signing a mortgage deed is a powerful legal step, but it is only part of the journey to owning a home. After you sign, there are still important stages to complete, including exchange of contracts, completion, and registration with the Land Registry.
Understanding what happens next helps you feel more confident and in control. With the right professional support and a clear idea of the process, you can move forward knowing exactly what to expect as you become a homeowner.
Buying a home is one of the biggest commitments you will ever make. Taking the time to understand what happens after signing a mortgage deed ensures that this milestone is not only exciting, but also secure and well-informed.