Guide to buying property

So, you’ve decided to move. Great! You’re in the right place.

The next step is to get yourself in the best possible position. This will vary depending on your circumstances:

If you’re already a homeowner, you need to decide what to do first – should you look for that ideal property before selling your own or vice versa?

It’s a chicken and egg scenario. Selling your home without having another property in mind is a daunting prospect but falling in love with a property only to have it swept away; sold to another buyer can be heartbreaking. When considering the sell first/find first debate there is a lot to consider.

If you don’t already own a home, you’re in a great position

You’re classed as having nothing to sell; or ‘chain free’. If you’re renting, we would advise you to hold off giving your landlord notice until you are further down the line.

The next thing for all buyers to consider is finance

How much do you want to spend and how are you going to pay for it? These questions require a lot of thought and planning. You will need to know how much deposit you have (or equity if it is money tied up in your existing home). You will need to know what costs you will incur.

You will also need to know how much you can borrow. Evolve Mortgage Advice can help you with all of this.

Call them on 07823 492003 and they can arrange a free consultation with Ellen Varney, our expert mortgage advisor who will walk you through step-by-step.

Decide where you want to live

Choosing a location is never simple. Normally, the best locations are also the most expensive. This leaves many buyers having to weigh between a bigger and better home, or a more sought after and desirable location.

Choose a specific property

Searching for a home is often the fun part. It’s a happy and exciting time. But don’t let the excitement cloud your judgment. Keep your eyes peeled and keep a list of things to look for.

If you’re viewing through us, then chances are we will already have the answers to those questions in our property information packs. However, we will always do our best to answer any other questions you may have.

Don’t forget to check if it’s freehold or leasehold.

Making an offer and getting it accepted

The first and most important part of any negotiation is to get yourself in the strongest possible position and to make it known to the seller as well as Swakeleys Estates. That way you can ensure you will always be right at the front of the queue.

A lot of buyers keep their position closely guarded when negotiating but this can, inadvertently, arouse suspicion at a time when both parties need to inspire trust.

Talk to the agent about your plans; why you love the property and exactly how you intend to buy it. Talk to them about solicitors. Most importantly let them know you’re serious. You should always offer via the agent and never talk finance directly with the sellers.

Arrange a mortgage

By now you should have a detailed finance plan and be ready to move forward. If not, Evolve Mortgage Advice have you covered. Note that offers can unravel very quickly if they are based on loose financial planning.

Hire a solicitor or conveyancer

Once you have agreed on an offer on your house, you need to get a solicitor or conveyancer to handle the legal work to transfer ownership of the property to you. Choosing the right solicitor/conveyancer is the first decision in the legal process. Should you choose a solicitor that operates on a no-sale no fee basis? Do they offer fixed fees or pay as you go? Solicitors may be local or online and physically located miles away.

Choose your survey. There are typically three survey tiers; A basic mortgage valuation, a home buyers report or a full structural survey. If you’re getting a mortgage your lender will generally carry out a basic survey but you may be able to upgrade it.