The buying process

  1. 1

    Budgeting and getting the right mortgage

    Before you begin your property search, you need to establish how much you can spend on a property, and if you are not buying it outright, you will require a mortgage.

    Find out more
  2. 2

    Finding the right location

    Choosing your next property usually involves finding a balance between what you want, what you can afford, and what is available. Every individual’s requirements vary, but most buyers’ decisions will be influenced to some degree by budget, location and size.

    Find out more
  3. 3

    Instructing a property solicitor

    There are a number of legal documents and procedures that must be completed when buying a property. For the transaction to move as quickly as possible, you will need a reliable property solicitor or conveyancer to take care of the legal and administrative details.

    Find out more
  4. 4

    Finding and shortlisting properties

    There are several online aggregators, or portals, that make comparing properties easy. Estate agents’ websites also provide the ability to search properties by various criteria.

    Find out more
  5. 5

    Optimising viewings

    To get the most out of your property viewings there are a number of checks you can do yourself, as well as questions to ask your estate agent.

    Find out more
  6. 6

    Negotiating and making an offer

    There are many elements to consider when negotiating and making an offer on a property.

    Find out more
  7. 7

    Arranging a survey

    Once your offer is accepted, you will need to arrange a survey to learn about the property’s condition and value.

    Find out more
  8. 8

    Agreeing the sale, exchanging and completing contracts

    Once your offer has been accepted, the final paperwork will be prepared ready for exchange and completion.

    Find out more
  9. 9

    Preparing for moving day

    The day you move house is likely to be a busy one, but you can make the process less stressful with good preparation.

    Find out more
  10. 10

    Possible problems and pitfalls

    As there are a number of different parties involved in the buying process, planning ahead and preparing for any challenges will keep the process running smoothly.

    Find out more