Get your finances in place.

If you need to sell a property to assist in your purchase, it is advisable to find a buyer and accept an offer prior to arranging any viewings. This will put you in the best position in order to be able to negotiate with the owner of the property you’re interested in.

Take into consideration your income, any savings you wish to use and if appropriate, any cash you plan to use from the sale of your existing property. If you will be using a mortgage, speak with your bank, and an independent mortgage advisor, to ensure you have explored every avenue in securing the best mortgage product that suits you.

It is important to factor in the essential services and taxes involved in buying a property into your budget calculations. The most common include - stamp duty, conveyancing, searches, land registry and surveys.

Choose a list of essential property features.

Now you have a budget in mind, you can start to make a list of must-have property features such as the number of bedrooms required, what location you need, how much outside space or a workplace do you need and what type of property you require.

However, be prepared to compromise! It is very rare that a property will tick every box so, put this list in order of importance.

Our online search tools have made the process of finding property easier than ever, however, you may not be aware that some of the best properties with desirable locations, price or size sell before they are listed on the larger property portals. Therefore, we recommend registering with us to ensure you do not miss out on what is new to the market.

Viewings

Once your agent is up to date with your needs, it's time to get out there and see a range of properties so that you can get a grip on what your money will buy in your chosen area.

We advise you to view as many properties as you can, however, if you find the perfect property early on in your search, don't delay if you like it. The probability is that someone else will like it as well and you may miss the opportunity.

Make an Offer

When you find a suitable property, consult your agent about how to proceed. Sometimes an offer is about more than just money; you will be asked to provide details of:

How you propose to purchase the property. I.E. Your buying position (cash, mortgage, is there a sale below and any chain)
Proof of funds or mortgage
Proposed timeframes
Any inclusions (curtains, carpets, etc.,)
The seller will expect us to obtain all of this information, as it will aid them in their decision-making

Sale Progression

Our in-house sales progressor will be with you every step of the way to ease you through the sale process and make it as seamless as possible. They coordinate between all parties in the chain and will help you ensure valuations and surveys are done and searches requested all in a timely manor.

Exchange of Contracts

The exchange of contracts is the legally binding part of the process. This is when you hand over a deposit - the normal sum or liability is 10% of the purchase price but this can differ. Contracts are exchanged once you and the seller and your respective solicitors are satisfied that everything is in order. A date for completion is agreed and from this point, both parties are legally bound to go through with the transaction.

Completion

This is the day the balance of the monies is transferred via the banking system and the day on which you will get the keys to the property you have bought.

Top tip - don't forget to redirect your post!

Buying Guide