Buying your first house is a significant milestone, and it’s an exciting time. It may also be frightening, especially with so much information to absorb and new jargon to comprehend. That’s why we’ve put up this first-time buyers’ guide to purchasing a home, which will help you eliminate the guesswork and make the process as simple as possible. Of course, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to every question – each property purchase will be unique – but our tips should give you a good starting point from which to work. So, whether you’re just starting your research or are about to exchange contracts, read on for our top tips on buying a property.
1. Instruct a Conveyancing Solicitor
When buying a property, it’s essential to have a legal representative to help guide you through the process. This is where conveyancing solicitors come in – they’re responsible for handling all the legal work involved in transferring ownership of a property from one person to another. So, if you are in Doncaster, get a conveyance solicitor who deals with helping Doncaster locals purchase their first home. There are many conveyancing solicitors to choose from, so it’s essential to do your research and find one you can trust. Ask friends and family for recommendations, or read online reviews to get an idea of the best fit for you.
2. Get Your finances in Order
Purchasing a property is a big financial commitment, so it’s essential to make sure you’re financially ready for it. This means having enough savings to cover your down payment and mortgage repayments, as well as having a good credit score. You should also be able to cover the cost of the deposit, stamp duty, legal fees, and other associated costs. If you’re not able to cover these costs upfront, you may need to take out a mortgage. This is where getting pre-approved for a mortgage comes in handy, as it will give you an idea of how much money you can borrow.
3. Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage
When purchasing your first home, it’s a good idea to ensure that you understand your affordability and eligibility for a mortgage. This can be done by getting pre-approved for a mortgage, which is when a lender assesses your financial situation and decides how much money they’re willing to lend you. Pre-approval not only gives you peace of mind, knowing that you have a loan in place, but it can also help speed up the buying process as it shows sellers that you’re a serious buyer.
4. Do Research and Surveys
Buying a property is a significant investment, so it’s essential to do your research and know what you’re getting yourself into. This means reading up on the local market, researching different neighborhoods, and speaking to estate agents. It’s also a good idea to get a survey done on the property, as this will alert you to any potential problems with the building that may need fixing. Consider including a surveyor to shed light on any potential risks with the property. Depending on the type of survey you choose, you’ll find that the cost will vary. Your conveyancing solicitor may be able to recommend a surveyor who they have worked with in the past.
5. Have Clear Expectations
When buying a property, it’s essential to have realistic expectations and be aware of the potential problems that can come up during the process. For example, you may need to factor in repair costs or extra mortgage payments if the property is in a bad state of repair. It’s also important to remember that things can go wrong – for example, the seller may back out of the sale at the last minute, or there could be delays with getting the mortgage approved. So, it’s always best to have a backup plan in place just in case. With this in mind, it’s essential to have clear expectations and know what you’re willing to give up on.
6. Understand the Contract
When buying a property, you will be required to sign a contract – also known as a sale agreement. This document outlines all the terms and conditions of the sale, so it’s essential to read it thoroughly and understand what you agree to. If there are any parts of the contract that you disagree with, consult your solicitor before signing. If you pulled out, they would be forced to pay fines. You’ll now be financially responsible for the property, which means building insurance is essential. In a calamity or accident, your home will be safeguarded by insurance.
While purchasing a property is extremely exciting, it’s also a huge commitment. At some point, you will be required to sign a contract – also known as a sale agreement. This document outlines all the terms and conditions of the sale, so it’s essential to read it thoroughly and understand what you agree to. If there are any parts of the contract that you disagree with, consult your solicitor before signing. By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making a successful purchase.
