Buying your first home is one of life's most significant achievements. It’s a journey filled with anticipation, decisions, and ultimately, the joy of owning a place you can truly call your own. At our core, we believe in guiding you with clarity and confidence, ensuring your property journey is made simple from the very beginning.

Understanding Your Starting Point: Financial Foundations

Before you even begin browsing properties online, the most crucial first step is to understand your financial position. This isn't just about how much you have saved; it's about what you can realistically afford to borrow and repay.

1. Assess Your Savings and Budget

Start by looking at your current savings. You'll need a deposit, typically ranging from 5% to 20% of the property's purchase price. Beyond the deposit, remember to budget for additional costs such as stamp duty (if applicable), solicitor's fees, valuation fees, and removal costs. A good rule of thumb is to have an extra 10-15% of the deposit amount set aside for these expenses.

2. Get a Mortgage in Principle (MIP)

This is a vital step. A Mortgage in Principle (also known as an Agreement in Principle or Decision in Principle) is a written estimate from a lender stating how much they would provisionally be willing to lend you. It’s not a formal offer, but it gives you a clear budget and shows estate agents and sellers that you are a serious and credible buyer. We often advise our clients to speak with an independent mortgage advisor who can explore options from across the market, ensuring you find the best fit for your circumstances.

Beginning Your Property Search: What to Look For

With your finances in order, the exciting part begins: finding your dream home. This is where expert advice, delivered with care, truly makes a difference.

1. Define Your Priorities

Before you start viewing, sit down and make a list of your 'must-haves' and 'nice-to-haves'. Consider location, number of bedrooms, garden space, proximity to transport links, schools, and local amenities. Being clear about your priorities will help you focus your search and avoid wasting time on unsuitable properties.

2. Research the Market

Spend time researching areas that appeal to you. Look at recent sale prices for similar properties, understand local trends, and get a feel for what your budget will buy in different neighbourhoods. Online property portals are a great starting point, but local estate agents possess invaluable insights into specific areas.

3. Engage with a Trusted Estate Agent

This is where we come in. As an owner-led service, we pride ourselves on a boutique approach, working with fewer clients at once to provide deeper attention and better service. We don't just show you properties; we listen carefully to your needs, offer balanced expertise, and provide trusted guidance every step of the way. We can alert you to new properties coming to market, often before they are widely advertised, giving you a crucial advantage.

Making an Offer and Beyond

Once you've found a property you love, it's time to make an offer. Make sure you put forward a sensible offer taking into account what has sold and available in the nearby area and what can help is writing a covering letter with your offer, with some information about you and why you love the property.

After an offer is accepted, the journey continues with solicitors, surveys, and finalising your mortgage. This can feel complex, but with us, you'll find we are always accessible and quick to respond, ensuring you're kept informed and supported throughout. There are no handovers; you work directly with the business owners, ensuring continuity and a genuine relationship.

Buying your first home is a significant undertaking, but it doesn't have to be overwhelming. By taking these initial steps and partnering with an estate agent who puts people first, you can navigate the process with confidence and excitement. We're here to make your property journey, made simple.

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