A far from exhaustive list, but a few pointers in the right direction…
- Get your finances arranged
- Wait until you have a buyer
- Use recommended conveyancing solicitors
- Viewings
- Don’t bid too low for a property
- Consider the property seller
- Communicate during the property buying process
Make sure you have your financial arrangements sorted out before you start to look at properties and have looked into what mortgages deals you could get.
If you need a mortgage get this arranged, the broker will give you a certificate – ask Cooper Adams for a free independent mortgage quote, if you are accepted you will get a ‘Mortgage agreement in principal certificate’.
If you have cash, prepare a letter from your bank/accountant or solicitor to show the estate agent when you offer. The agent has to check this and it has to remain confidential.
If you’re also selling a home, find a buyer for it before you begin to look for your new home. You’ll avoid the disappointment of missing out because someone else has the funds immediately available.
Getting these ready up front will go down well when an offer is presented – Ask Cooper Adams for a free quote from their local solicitors.
Do your homework, drive past the outside first, look at the room sizes on the floorplan – does it work for you? Look at the immediate area, read the details thoroughly – If all OK ring and book the viewing before someone else snaps it up.
Be careful how aggressively you try to lower a price. It might increase the chances of being gazumped and may also lead to resentment on the part of the seller.
Establish how quickly the seller wants to move at the outset. If the answer is as quickly as possible, does that fit with your circumstances? If they’re moving to a new job that doesn’t start for months, will you be able to find a temporary home?
If you’re keen to find a bargain, you may have a better chance if you look for sellers who need to move for a reason, such as a new job, have already found a new home so have a strong incentive to move or have had their property on the market for some months.
Don’t disappear on holiday for two weeks without informing all necessary parties. Don’t ignore any aspects of letters about the purchase that you don’t understand. Raise any queries you have about the purchase immediately.
For any further advice, simply contact us.