4 Helpful Steps for First Time Buyers

Buying your first home is a very exciting time but, can also be a daunting experience.  Here is a quick guide for First Time Buyers, to get you started.

1. Get financial advice

Arrange an appointment to speak to a mortgage advisor.  Ideally chose an advisor who is recommended to you by family and friends.

Work through your figures and discuss the maximum amount you can comfortably afford.

It is also worth checking at this stage if you will be able to benefit from any Government assistance, such as Help To Buy ISAs, and First Time Buyers relief from Stamp Duty.

2. Decide where you want to live

Once you have decided where you want to live create an account on a few property search engines such as Rightmove, OnTheMarket, and Zoopla.  When you are registered you will then be notified when new properties are uploaded to the sites.  It’s also worth registering with the local estate agents – they will keep a note of your details and can potentially call you before the property is even listed on the various property websites.

3. Make a list of your ‘must haves’ and ‘would likes’

No property is going to be perfect – they all come with compromises.  So it’s a good idea before you even start viewing properties to make a list of what you really couldn’t compromise on, and what you would really like in your new home.  Do you really need a garden, or a garage, or extra storage space?  This way you can whittle out unsuitable properties before you’ve been seduced by the décor and presentation.

4. Do your research

Once you have decided on an area and your list of ‘must haves’, then do your research.  Most property search engine websites have a section which will show you what similar properties in your chosen area have sold for, so that you can have a realistic idea of what might be available to you.  Perhaps speak to neighbours to discuss the local area.

When you start to look at properties, speak to the estate agents to check the seller’s situation ie. Are they looking to move quickly?  Has the property been on the market for a long time?  Is the property empty?  In these circumstances the sellers may consider a lower offer.  Check with the estate agents what interest there has been in the property.  Gather as much information as you can, to help you when you begin to negotiate on price.

Before you make your offer make sure you are absolutely certain that this is the right property for you.  Don’t feel rushed into making an offer.  Also be prepared to walk away from the property if the bidding goes too high for your budget.

Once you’ve got your offer accepted, call Poole Alcock.  We offer an award wining conveyancing service, and as soon as you instruct us we will get to work, helping you to make your dream home a reality.

Call us on 0800 470 0336