Wondering
where to Buy?
It can be daunting to buy a property in a unfamiliar place, so our area guides are here to help find the best location for you and your needs.
Buying a home is an exciting time but it can be daunting, it can also be hard to know where to start so we have created this guide to take you through the process from your initial research to moving in… Have fun!
Before getting serious with your search, it’s a good idea to work out how much you can afford to borrow. At Ashtons, we look at your net monthly income, your outgoings and what disposable income you have.
Now you know what you can afford, you can begin your search! How many reception rooms? How many bedrooms? Car parking or a garden? School nearby? New home or an old? Town or rural?
TIP: Register with your local office for property updates.
When you have found your ideal home, it’s important to get your mortgage arranged as quickly as possible. When you apply for a mortgage through Ashtons, we will ensure that things move as smoothly as possible.
TIP: Get in touch with a local Mortgage Expert today.
Your solicitor carries out the conveyancing which is the legal process of handing over a property from one person to another. They also have a duty to protect your interests so they will investigate the legal aspects of the property such as its boundaries and exactly what is included in the sale. Most solicitors will charge a fixed fee and it is usually a percentage of the agreed sale price.
Remember that the price the seller is asking for is not necessarily the price they will finally accept. Your first offers can be lower than the asking price. Although, if there has been a lot of interest in the property it could be wise to make an offer close to the asking price. Once your offer is accepted, it will be confirmed in writing. But do remember, the property is not officially yours until legally binding contracts are exchanged.
A survey will give you a good idea of the property’s condition and value. There are different types of survey, from a simple valuation indicating how much the property is worth, to a full structural survey. If problems do come to light, you are within your rights to try to re-negotiate or withdraw.
As long as there were no problems with the survey, the solicitors from both sides will draw up formal contracts for you and the seller to sign. These are legally binding so make sure that you are full steam ahead.
The day has finally arrived! It’s a good idea to book a removal firm to help you. You should contact the utilities companies, redirect your post and notify the authorities.. oh, don’t forget to collect your keys!
Enjoy your new home!
It can be daunting to buy a property in a unfamiliar place, so our area guides are here to help find the best location for you and your needs.
‘Pre-Launch’ properties go live on our site 48hrs before Rightmove, get a first look before anyone else!
