Buying a house is an exciting yet stressful process. That does not mean you give up your dream. You need to be smart in making decisions and know how to go about the whole process. Poor choices can be costly, and therefore, it is prudent to take your time and learn as much as you can about the process. Fortunately, the experience does not have to be overwhelming. The following tips can guide you in making the right choices.
1. Decide whether buying is the right choice for you
With over 86% of people wanting to own a house in the UK, it is easy to be caught up in the dream. However, buying a home is not a good option for everyone. You may end up with regrets. Therefore, before you set off on your quest to find a house, ensure it is what you want. If you already have a house but want a change of scenery, you may have to sell first. Putting your home on the market before you find another one is risky, but it can be rewarding.
2. Determine your budget
House prices are high, and it is good to know beforehand how much you are willing to spend. Even if you plan to take a mortgage, you should have an estimate of how much you can afford. Deciding your budget should not overwhelm you. If you visit propertypriceadvice.co.uk/budget-calculator, you will have access to a budget calculator. The tool will help you get an estimate of the property’s budget. With a few questions, the calculator will provide an estimate to guide you. Knowing the amount you can afford saves you from fawning over a home that is beyond your budget.
3. Put together your finances
First time house buyers usually have a hard time buying due to financing options. Therefore, before you start searching for the perfect home, organise how you are going to pay for the house. Planning finances can take years if you do not have enough savings for the deposit. While you can get a mortgage, it does not cover the down payment and other hidden costs. You need to ensure your savings are enough. It is also a good idea to get a mortgage in principle. It will give you an idea of the amount of loan you can get. If you are selling the house to acquire a new property, carry out a valuation to determine the price it will fetch. Sometimes you may have to get additional financing for the new house. You may also need professional advice from a mortgage broker to ensure you make informed decisions.
4. Determine the location
If you are moving to a new area, there are numerous factors to consider. Apart from security, you need to consider proximity to various amenities and the option of relocating in the future. Choosing a location can be time-consuming, but you need to get it right to avoid regrets. Even when you have an area in mind, research to make sure it is the right place for you.
5. Hunt for houses
Searching for houses is the fun part. You can look up for available properties in the area or hire an estate agent. Before you decide, you need to get a feel of the local property market. View several houses and take the time to examine the building. It will save you from any surprises when you are moving into the home.
6. Make an offer and arrange for payment
When you find your dream home, ensure you make an offer as soon as possible. You should have your finances ready if you want the seller to take you seriously. Knowing the price to offer is vital. Consider the furniture and fittings and give a fair price. If the seller accepts your offer, the financing should be ready. Inform the mortgage company to avoid delays.
7. Sign contracts and move in
Once you have organised payment, the only thing remaining is going over the contracts and signing on the dotted line. Any other negotiations and surveys should be done before exchanging contracts. When everything is set, it is time to set the moving date.
With the right plan, getting a house will be simple and stress-free. However, you need to involve the right people.
