You have found your home, now it’s time for the legal bit.
What are searches and surveys and do I need them?
Searches provide information in relation to the property such as its planning history, the status of the road and whether the property is connected to the mains water supply. Surveys check on the condition of the property. Searches and having a survey can be important and if you are obtaining a mortgage this will normally be a lender requirement in any event.
What is the process for buying a home?
After you have made an offer on your property it is time to instruct a conveyancer. Always look carefully at the firm you appoint.
Next arrange your mortgage and your survey.
Then put the conveyancer in fund for searches.
A decent solicitor will then take you through the process reporting to you on the property and searches and once you and the solicitor are happy to proceed, you will look to exchange (this is when your are contracted to buy the property) and the completion date will be fixed. Ahead of the exchange you should check the completion date is suitable having in mind such matters as removals, availability of funds and work commitments.
Download our buying guide here for more detail on the process.
What sort of things need to be budgeted for?
We recommend before agreeing the purchase you factor in the associated costs with the purchase such as the stamp duty land tax, the disbursements, legal fees and cost of removals.
What do I need to be aware of as a first time buyer?
Choose legal representation that has been genuinely recommended and where you feel comfortable the conveyancer will be available to you to take you through the process. Check with friends and family and look at reviews.
What can I do to make the process run smoothly?
It is important to be organised so make sure you liaise with your conveyancer, financial advisor and others involved in the process (as appropriate).
How can we make this process easier for you?
The house buying process will always be much easier if you choose and independent and approachable firm. We are always at the end of a phone call or email should you need to contact us. We know it can be stressful when you want an update on the process, but we endeavor to reply to every query straight away to give you that peace of mind you need, get you through to completion and moved into your new home as quickly as possible.
If you have any other queries please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our property team who will be happy to help!
