Buyers Guide
Get yourself ready to buy in every sense, and when the perfect property becomes available, you’ll be in the strongest possible position to secure it.
Determine Your Budget
Assess your financial situation and get a clear idea of what you can afford, including deposit and additional costs (e.g., stamp duty, legal fees).
Get Mortgage Pre-Approval
Unless you are buying using your own funds, you’ll be needing a mortgage. Speak to one of our trusted independent mortgage advisors to secure your mortgage agreement in principal and show sellers you’re a serious buyer. To get your AIP (agreement in principle) you’ll need to supply your ID, proof of address and full details of your income.
Find the Right Property
Research areas, property types, and features that suit your needs. Use estate agent listings, property portals, our area guides and local knowledge to explore options.
Arrange Property Viewings
Use portals like Rightmove and save your searches so you get updated as soon as appropriate properties come to market – Stay in regular contact with your agent so they know you’re serious and they will think of you when your perfect property becomes available
Make an Offer
Once you’ve found the right property, make an offer in writing by email to your estate agent, setting out the strength of your position as a buyer. Attach any supporting documentation including your ID copies, proof of address and your mortgage AIP, this will make your estate agent very happy! Be prepared to negotiate.
Hire a Solicitor or Conveyancer
We can recommend one of our trusted local solicitors to give you a quotation, or take a recommendation from friends or family, but try and use a local company with a good reputation and don’t always go for the cheapest. You usually find out you’ve appointed the wrong solicitor when it’s too late!
Offer acceptance
Complete your mortgage application – Once your offer is accepted, it’s important to complete your mortgage application as soon as possible. Once completed, this will trigger your lenders’ survey. Your formal mortgage offer should follow around 10 days later
Survey the Property
Consider getting a home survey to identify any hidden issues with the property before finalizing the purchase.
Exchange Contracts and Complete the Sale
After all legal checks are complete, you can set a mutually agreed date for completion and exchange contracts with the seller. On completion day, the property officially becomes yours!
Move In
Congratulations, it’s time to arrange your move and settle into your new home.
How much is your property worth?
Get an accurate valuation from Tim king your Chingford estate agent