A Simple Guide to Obtaining Homes England’s Authority to Complete

If you are selling your home or repaying your Help to Buy equity loan, one of the most important steps is securing Homes England’s Authority to Complete (ATC). This approval allows your property transaction to move forward and confirms the amount required to repay your equity loan.

1. Obtain a RICS Valuation Report

To begin your Help to Buy repayment or sale, you’ll need a current RICS valuation report from an independent surveyor. Homes England have strict guidelines, and the valuation must be completed by a RICS-qualified surveyor, be independent, include an internal inspection, provide comparable sales, and be submitted correctly in digital format.

Why Homes England Require a RICS Valuation

Your Help to Buy equity loan repayment is based on your current property value, so Homes England need to ensure the figure is accurate and reliable.

2. Instruct a Conveyancing Solicitor

A qualified conveyancing solicitor or licensed conveyancer is essential. They manage the legal process, submit documents, and ensure your Help to Buy repayment, remortgage or sale runs smoothly.

3. Pay the Admin Fee and Clear Any Arrears

Homes England charge a £200 administration fee. Any arrears or outstanding interest must also be settled.

4. Submit the Equity Loan Repayment Application

Your Help to Buy repayment application is then submitted to Homes England, authorising your solicitor to act for you.

5. Receive Your Help to Buy Redemption Letter

This letter confirms the equity loan percentage, the amount repayable, and any charges or arrears.

6. Homes England Issue the Legal Undertaking Pack

Homes England send your solicitor a detailed legal undertaking pack.

7. Your Solicitor Submits the Legal Undertaking

Your solicitor must return the undertaking at least 15 days before completion.

8. Homes England Issue Your Authority to Complete (ATC)

This is issued once everything is approved and is essential for your property transaction to complete.

What Happens After You Receive the ATC?

Your solicitor sends repayment funds, Homes England verify the amounts, and then instruct the Land Registry to remove their charge from your property.

Need Help With Your Help to Buy Redemption or Authority to Complete?

The ATC process can be complex and time‑sensitive. Working with an experienced Help to Buy repayment solicitor ensures a smooth, efficient transaction.

If you need clear, practical and expert conveyancing advice, our team is ready to help.