Free Home Buying Guide – Think Property – Move Right:
From the moment you first decide to move, the cost clock starts ticking. And the whole process can be daunting - where exactly do you start?
That's why we've put together this 12 part guide to make life a little easier for you.
1. So where do you want to move to?
- Be sure in your own mind about where you want to live, the type of property you want to live in and the things that are most important to you and your family.
2. Selling your home?
- Buying, more often than not, means having to sell. Be as focused on selling your own house as you are about buying the new one.
3. Getting a mortgage agreement in principle
- Get advice on what’s available, how it works and what the best options are for your own personal circumstances.
4. Starting to view suitable properties
- Make sure you see properties which match what you are looking for.
5. Making an offer on a property
- Lists of potential costs for buyers & sellers...
6. Finding a good solicitor & the legal bits
- Buying and selling property is a big deal and making sure the records are correct and both parties are protected is essential.
7. Applying for that mortgage
- There is a huge choice of lenders and mortgages and it is more than likely they can cater for any unusual requests or previous credit problems.
8. Surveys - is it worth it?
- Do you need a full survey or will a basic mortgage valuation do. Depending on the type, age and history of property, refusing to pay for a full survey could turn nasty and end up being false economy.
9. Receiving your mortgage offer
- Don’t be blinded by the excitement of a new home. Have you investigated how to protect the financial commitment you are making and thought of protection insurances?
10. Home Insurance - because you are worth it!
- Shopping around is a must when looking for insurance. The market is very competitive and there are some great deals out there. Don’t just go with what your mortgage lender is offering.
11. Exchanging contracts and setting the move date
- Really consider how you might pay the mortgage if your financial situation suddenly changed. It might happen to you even if you don’t think so and if you haven’t made plans it will be your family that suffers.
12. Moving day - and it can be!
- If you are going to take on the removal yourself then get as organised as possible as far in advance as possible. It’s going to be a stressful day, don’t make it more difficult than it has to be.
13. Homeowner loans / Secured Loans - you’ve earned it
- A property may be your biggest financial asset, but it is also your home. Use the capital wisely and don’t treat it as a cash cow.
14. Remortgaging, saving money or raise cash. Don't leave it to late
- Be aware that remortgaging costs money and only go ahead once you’ve a clear idea of how much it’ll cost and whether it will actually save you. If it’s not saving you money then why are you doing it? If you can’t answer that question then don’t go ahead.