We recommend starting of with clarifying a budget, you will need to understand exactly how much you can spend at the beginning of your search. If you are purchasing with a mortgage, it is highly advisable to get in touch with a mortgage broker. Understanding your budget in the beginning will guide you down the right path to be able realistically consider other important aspects like size, location and specification.
There are many considerations when it comes to buying. The prioritisation of each aspect is always unique to the individual depending on their lifestyle and long term goals. For example, if you have to commute everyday you may want to consider prioritising being as close to a train station as possible over being close to a local park or if you have a family perhaps the location of the property being withing a certain catchment area of a desired school out ranks the proximity amenities. It is also important to weigh up what is available vs what you are willing to compromise on.
Most applicants will start their search online in the various portals and websites available to find a suitable property. Typically adverts will give you a lot of information on the property including images, floorplans, energy efficiency and in some cases videos and virtual tours helping you to refine your search at this stage and be more efficient with your appointments. Speaking to a local agent will help with the speed in which you are made aware of properties including those which are yet to come to market. The agent will also be able to advise you on the position of the vendor.
You will need to instruct a conveyancer who will complete the necessary paperwork involved in the buying process. We advise that you choose one through recommendation or past experience where possible. Instructing a solicitor that is partnered with your agent can help to speed up the process.
The buying market is fast paced and competition for desirable properties can be tough, we recommend once you have decided on your new home to act quickly. You will be asked to provide us with various relevant pieces of information to agree a sale with the owner of your desired property. Once the vendor has considered the offer and has agreed your agent will request solicitors/brokers details on both sides and run AML checks on you. You will then be issued with a memorandum of sale to all parties including solicitors.
Your agent will touch base throughout the relevant milestones in the transaction to offer assistance and guide the relevant parties through the transaction to ensure the process if running smoothly and on time. Once your ready to exchange your agent will agree a completion date where we will arrange keys and access on completion.
There are a lot of things to consider as a buyer, it is important to be aware of your rights and obligations. We recommend you read and ensure you understand all of the paperwork issued to you and if you have any doubts, you should seek independent legal advice. The government has issued information which you will need to consider available on the following link https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/how-to-buy-a-home/how-to-buy
