Buyer Guide
Buying a home is one of the biggest commitments you’ll make. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or moving up the ladder, this step-by-step guide walks you through the entire process - from getting your finances sorted to picking up the keys.
Get Your Finances in Order
Before you start viewing properties, get a clear picture of your budget. Speak to a mortgage adviser or your bank to obtain a mortgage agreement in principle - this shows sellers you're a serious buyer and helps you understand exactly what you can afford.
Understand the Costs Involved
The purchase price is only part of the picture. Budget for mortgage arrangement and valuation fees, conveyancing (solicitor) costs, Land Registry fees, survey costs, Stamp Duty Land Tax, removal costs, and building and contents insurance. It's wise to keep a contingency fund for unexpected expenses too.
Start Your Property Search
Browse our listings online, set up property alerts so new homes matching your criteria land straight in your inbox, and register with us so we can contact you about properties before they hit the portals. Don't limit yourself to one area - explore neighbouring streets and villages where you might find better value.
Ask the Right Questions
When viewing a property, don't be afraid to ask questions. Find out about local transport links, nearby schools and shops, council tax band, how long is left on the lease (if leasehold), service charges and ground rent, the age of the boiler and roof, whether there's double glazing and loft insulation, and when the property last sold.
Viewing Tips
Try to view a property at different times of day to get a feel for noise, traffic, and natural light. Look beyond the decor and focus on the structure, layout, and potential. Take photos and notes so you can compare properties afterwards. If you're serious about a home, a second viewing is always a good idea.
Making an Offer
When you find the right property, don't delay - in a competitive market homes can sell quickly. We'll present your offer to the seller and negotiate on your behalf to get the best possible deal. Don't be disheartened if your first offer isn't accepted; buying a property is a negotiation.
Instruct a Solicitor
Once your offer is accepted, you'll need a solicitor or licensed conveyancer to handle the legal work. Choose someone responsive and experienced in residential conveyancing. They'll carry out local authority searches, check the title, raise enquiries, and prepare the contracts for exchange.
Arrange a Survey
Your mortgage lender will carry out a basic valuation, but this is not a full survey. We strongly recommend commissioning a HomeBuyer Report or a full Building Survey, especially on older properties. A survey can uncover issues that might affect the price you're willing to pay or flag repairs you'll need to budget for.
Finalise Your Mortgage
Once the lender's valuation is satisfactory, your formal mortgage offer will be issued. Check the terms carefully, including the interest rate, any early repayment charges, and any conditions attached to the offer. Your solicitor will also review the mortgage deed before you sign.
Exchange of Contracts
Once all searches are complete, enquiries are resolved, and both parties are happy, your solicitor will exchange contracts with the seller's solicitor. At this point you pay the deposit (usually 10%) and a legally binding completion date is set. Neither party can pull out after exchange without financial penalties.
Completion Day
On completion day, your solicitor transfers the remaining funds to the seller's solicitor. Once the money is received, the keys are released and the property is officially yours. We'll let you know the moment the keys are ready to collect - congratulations on your new home!
Moving In
Don't forget to arrange building and contents insurance from completion day, redirect your post, register with the local council for council tax, transfer utility accounts into your name, and update your address with your bank, employer, and GP. If you need recommendations for removal firms or tradespeople, just ask.
