Buying a house in simple steps

Choosing a Home: 

Start by determining your budget and the type of property you're looking for. Consider location, size, amenities, and local schools if you have children. Use online property portals and estate agents to find available properties. 

Remember that most sales agents always have a pool of potential buyers, such as investors, who are often contacted before the property is advertised online. If you cannot find a property that matches all the boxes, you should also register your interest with them.

Arranging Financing: 

Knowing how much you can afford before making an offer is essential. You should get a mortgage agreement in principle from a lender, which indicates how much they might lend you, subject to final checks. Do not forget to price up contingencies you may require for various repairs or improvements. You will need that money ready.

Making an Offer: 

Once you find a property you like, you can make an initial offer through the estate agent. The offer is not legally binding at this stage and may change depending on the outcome of the condition survey.

Hiring a Solicitor or Conveyancer: 

You'll need a solicitor or conveyancer to handle the legal aspects of buying a property. They will conduct property searches, handle contracts, deal with the Land Registry, and transfer the funds to buy your new home. Most agents will have established relationships with the solicitors, so you will likely be given their contact details, but the choice is yours.

Remember that home buyers are free to choose their solicitor or conveyancer to handle the legal aspects of buying a home. Buyers should select a solicitor or conveyancer who is experienced and whom they feel comfortable working with, as this professional will be responsible for carrying out all the legal work associated with the property purchase.

Property Survey: 

Surveying the property for structural problems or other issues, such as dampness, is wise and potentially can save you thousands of pounds. Different types of surveys are available depending on how in-depth you want the investigation. Surveyors like SurveyAll can provide peace of mind, valuable insights, and a smoother transaction.

Formal Mortgage Application: 

Once your final offer is accepted, you must complete a formal mortgage application if you're buying with a mortgage.

Exchange of Contracts: 

Contracts can be exchanged when all the searches and surveys are satisfactory, and the mortgage is in place. The deal becomes legally binding at this point, and you might have to pay a deposit.

Completion: 

The final stage is where the property legally changes hands. The purchase price balance is transferred from your solicitor to the seller's solicitor, and you can then move into your new home.

Post-Completion: 

Your solicitor will pay Stamp Duty (if applicable) and ensure the property is registered in your name with the Land Registry.