The Ultimate Guide to Buying Property: Tips, Strategies, and Expert Advice

Step 1: Your property search

Gone are the days of wandering up the High Street and looking in agent's windows. The internet has revolutionized the way we search for properties. Our top tips for your property search are:

Decide what you want, where you want it, and how much you want to pay.

Use property search websites like Rightmove or Google agents in your area and use their property search.

Attend plenty of viewings and look for potential, even if the décor is not to your taste.

Visit an agent's branch, as they often know about properties first and will call you if they know you're looking.

Step 2: I love it, but can I afford it?

Once you've found a property you like, it's essential to think carefully about your choice. Here's what we recommend:

Get a market appraisal if you have a property to sell, and find out how someone will market your property to get you the best price quickly.

If you need a mortgage, seek professional advice. Our in-house mortgage advisers can search from thousands of available mortgages to find the one that's right for you.

Step 3: Making an offer they can't refuse

Once you've assessed your finances, it's time to make an offer. Here's what to do:

Call the agent and tell them you want to make an offer to purchase. The agent should submit the offer to the vendor and confirm it in writing to both parties.

Once your offer is accepted, your mortgage provider should arrange your mortgage and keep you updated on its progress.

You will also need to arrange for legal work to be carried out by a qualified professional. Ask the agent for a recommendation of a lawyer they trust.

Step 4: The legal process

The legal process of buying a property in the UK can be complex, so it's crucial to seek the advice of a qualified solicitor. Here's what you need to know:

Your solicitor will carry out a range of checks on the property and handle the legal transfer of ownership from the seller to you.

They will also ensure there are no issues with the property's ownership or planning permission.

Your solicitor will update you throughout the process and inform you of any issues.

Step 5: Completion

Once all the legal work has been completed, it's time to exchange contracts and complete the purchase. Here's what you need to do:

You will need to transfer the funds for the purchase to your solicitor's account.

Your solicitor will arrange for the transfer of ownership from the seller to you.

Once the transfer has been completed, you will be given the keys to your new home.

Additional advice:

Research the local area: Before committing to a property purchase, research the local area. Check out the local amenities, transport links, schools, and crime rates to ensure that the property is in a suitable location for your needs.

Get a survey: It's essential to get a property survey carried out to check for any issues with the property's structure or potential future problems. This will help you avoid any expensive surprises down the line.

Budget for additional costs: When budgeting for a property purchase, it's crucial to remember the additional costs. These include legal fees, stamp duty, and removal costs. Ensure you have factored in these costs before making an offer on a property.

Consider a property chain: If you're buying a property that is part of a chain, it's important to remember that the purchase may be delayed if any issues arise with the other properties in the chain. Be patient and stay in regular contact with your solicitor and the estate agent to ensure the purchase goes as smoothly as possible.

Talk to your Estate agent: Our specialist teams are experts at selling homes, and we can help you to keep the whole of your move on track. If you have a query about buying your new home, even if it isn't a property we are selling, we can help to guide you through the process.