I've just had my first finance approval, handover this weekend.
So from the 4th July, when I wasn't VAT registered, and bereft of an FCA license, to the 23rd August, when I've just sold a car on finance, is what, 6-7 weeks.
1) VAT registration.
2) FCA license applied and granted
3) Set up with Close
4) Car sold on finance
This will be a great reference point for anyone wondering what can be done with this process given the right attitude and help from your rep.