With Covid-19 restrictions relaxing and the stamp duty holiday, the housing market has seen something of a boom in recent months. That has pros and cons, depending on your position on the housing ladder. Whatever your situation, here are six tips when buying a home.
Image Credit
Agree your mortgage ‘in principle’
To be sure you’re not wasting your time, it is worth finding out how much a lender is willing to give you on a mortgage. Then you know how much you can afford to spend, and therefore which houses are within your price range. Getting a mortgage agreed in principle strengthens your position when you find the property you want to buy.
Do your homework
You might have an idea in your head about the sort of property you want to buy, but it’s a big commitment, so do some research on the area where you’re considering moving. The transport links might be important to you, or the local community and facilities such as access to schools or shops. Research online and in person.
Draw up a budget
Once you know how much you can borrow, set a budget. And then look at properties below that maximum price. There are often costs required for moving and decorating that you might have overlooked, and having a little bit of breathing room before the very top of your budget allows you to increase your offer if you need to to secure the deal. Opting for fixed fee conveyancing from experts like Sam Conveyancing can help.
Move quickly
Although buying a house is probably the biggest financial commitment you’ll make, you probably won’t have lots of time to consider it before you risk losing out to another buyer. If you’ve done your research on the area and you see a house you like within your price bracket, our advice would be not to think about it too long. Put in an offer quickly.
Don’t be disheartened
If your offer isn’t accepted, or the seller chooses another buyer, try not to get too down. Keep looking, and try to stay upbeat. The market is busy at the moment and lots of property is moving very quickly.
Communicate
Because you’ll need to move quickly as a buyer, keep in touch with your solicitor and your estate agent regularly. Be prepared to take calls from them and co-operate to ensure your purchase goes as smoothly as possible.
For more details, check out the government’s guide which has more information in addition to our six tips when buying a new home.
Contact an experienced conveyancer to guide you through the process and answer questions.