Investment Purchase Process

The Purchase Process
It’s no secret that purchasing a buy-to-let property can be a lengthy, challenging process – that is, if you choose to go it alone. 365 Invest’s collective experience and knowledge ensures the process is as smooth and incident-free as possible. You can leave any worries at the door and continue with confidence, knowing your financial future is in good hands.
01
Talk To Us
Simply get in touch, we offer a helpful no obligation consultation to understand your personal investment objectives. Working on a one to one basis your dedicated assistant will be on hand to thoroughly explain the whole process.
02
Strategy & Plan
We are experts in planning the best strategy for you based around exactly what you are trying to achieve. Let us put together the most suitable plan for you, giving you time to digest and revisit with any questions you may have.
03
Reservation
Based on our plan we will recommend some suitable property options for you to look at. Once you have chosen a suitable unit we will help you with all your paperwork, reservation fee paid and ensure the property is reserved in your name.
04
Legal Support
We will introduce you to an experienced conveyancing team specialising in off plan property to act on your behalf in a legal capacity. The legal team is on hand at any point throughout the legal process to help you with any queries you may have.
05
Purchase
We oversee the process, working with legal teams to ensure a smooth deposit payment and contract exchange, securing your property hassle-free.
06
Construction
You have purchased an off plan property and we want to stay in regular contact with you and keep you up to date with the construction of the project. We will supply you with regular construction updates via photos and videos.
07
Mortgage Process
Around 6 months before completion our mortgage team will get in touch if required to begin the mortgage process. We work with an experienced team who will be able to find the best financing options for you.
08
Completion
Once finished the legal team will legally complete the transaction on your behalf. Title deeds will be registered with the UK land registry. We are on hand again to help with furniture packs and getting the property ready for your tenants.
09
Lettings & Management
We have trusted partners who will handle the entire lettings process from start to finish. They will take the property from the developer, prepare it for rental, secure a tenant and look after the day to day management of your investment.
10
Refinance & Sell
When the time is right for you and you choose to refinance or sell the property, we are your first port of call. We will happily put you in touch with our financial team to release equity or market your property to our existing database of investors.
Frequently Asked Questions About Purchase Process
- What is the buy to let process with 365 Invest?
The buy to let process with 365 Invest is a structured, step‑by‑step framework for purchasing investment property, most commonly off‑plan developments in the UK. It begins with consultation and strategy planning, followed by reservation and legal exchange, then either a construction period or progression to completion for ready‑built units. Throughout, we coordinate with developers and introduce trusted professionals to help keep the transaction progressing smoothly.
If you would like to begin your buy to let journey, contact us to book your initial consultation.
- How long does the buy to let process take?
For completed properties, the process typically takes around 6–10 weeks from reservation to completion, depending on legal and mortgage timelines. For off‑plan purchases, completion depends on the build stage and can range from several months to longer construction periods. Indicative timelines are confirmed before exchange.
- How much deposit do I need and when is it paid?
A reservation fee is paid upfront to secure the property. A deposit, often in the region of 20–30% of the purchase price, is usually payable on exchange of contracts, with the remaining balance due at completion. Funds are handled through independent solicitors in line with UK conveyancing procedures, and deposit protection arrangements vary by development and are confirmed before exchange.
- Can I use a mortgage in the buy to let process?
Yes. Some investors purchase with cash, while others use buy‑to‑let mortgages, subject to lender criteria and eligibility. We introduce experienced authorised mortgage brokers who specialise in investment property and can advise on options available at the time of application.
- What additional costs should I budget for?
In addition to the purchase price, investors should budget for legal fees, Stamp Duty Land Tax where applicable, mortgage costs if financing, and lettings or management fees. A clear cost breakdown is provided before commitment so overall affordability can be assessed.
- What happens at exchange of contracts?
At exchange, your deposit is paid and the transaction becomes legally binding under the agreed terms. For off‑plan property, exchange typically takes place before the build is complete, with completion occurring once construction and sign‑off are finalised.
- What happens during the construction period?
If purchasing off plan, there is a build phase between exchange and completion. Many developments may already be under construction, with some nearing completion and others at earlier stages. We provide updates where available, though build timelines can change depending on site progress and external factors.
- When does rental income begin?
Rental income begins after legal completion and once a tenant is in place. Following completion, we work alongside trusted lettings and management partners who assist with marketing, tenant sourcing and ongoing management as the property moves into its operational stage.
- What should I consider during the buy to let process?
Investors should consider build timelines where relevant, mortgage availability at completion, valuation outcomes and local rental demand once the property is ready. Market conditions can change between exchange and completion, so reviewing contracts carefully and planning accordingly is a sensible part of the buy to let process.
- Is my money protected during the purchase process?
Yes. Funds are handled through independent solicitors in line with UK conveyancing procedures, meaning client monies are held within regulated client accounts. For off‑plan purchases, deposit protection arrangements vary by development and will be clearly confirmed by your solicitor before exchange of contracts.
- Can I sell the property in the future?
Yes. As the legal owner, you are free to sell your property at any time, subject to market conditions and any lender requirements if financed. We can introduce resale support if required.











