Most acquisition facilities complete within six to twelve weeks from engagement to drawdown. It depends on the complexity of the deal, the due diligence on the target and how quickly lenders respond. We give you a realistic timeline at the end of the first conversation.
Typical timings
- Indicative structure: 3 to 5 days after you brief us.
- Lender introductions: weeks 2 to 3.
- Heads of terms and indicative offers: weeks 3 to 6.
- Underwriting, legal work and drawdown: weeks 6 to 12.
Why acquisitions take longer than other finance
There's a target to check, a seller to negotiate with, and lawyers on both sides, as well as the lender's own process.
What slows deals down
- the seller's financial information arriving late or incomplete
- issues found in due diligence
- negotiating the sale agreement, warranties and the seller's deferred payments
- property or lease work, and valuations
What speeds them up
Early engagement, a clear target, your own contribution ready, and responsive advisers on both sides. See What documents do I need for acquisition finance?.
Last reviewed: 8 October 2026