Getting onto the property ladder can be stressful. If you’re\nnervous about buying your first home, then you’re in the right place. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
While there’s lots of confusion and jargon out there, if you do\nthe right research and take a methodical and well-advised route to buying your\nfirst house, you should be able to reduce stress as much as possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some of these tips might seem straightforward, but you’d be surprised how many first time buyers make simple mistakes without really even think about them. Don’t get caught up in a confusing and stressful property market. Follow these steps to get the best deal for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
1. Know Your Local Property Market<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Research the area you want to buy in extensively. If it’s\nsomewhere you already live, this should be easier. If it’s not, you still need\nto do the research. Most of this can be done online. Make sure you know what\nsort of properties are worth what in a specific area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Look at house price histories to see how much things have\nchanged in the last few years. A booming property market might need quicker\naction, while a falling one could mean you want to wait until it’s bottomed\nout. While price histories are important and the information will put you in a\nposition to make a better decision, remember that past price rises and falls\ndon’t indicate future performance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Try and find the house you want, rather than thinking too much\nabout whether it’s going to go up and down in value.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 2. Work Out Exactly What You Can Afford<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n When you’ve done the research, you’ll know what you can afford. Make sure you can get the number of bedrooms you need for your budget, and be aware of what locations in the local area have more expensive or cheaper homes. You can compare mortgage products on the market to find out what you can really afford.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 3. Go On Plenty Of Viewings<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Don’t rely on online searches too much. They’re a great place\nto start, but you’ll want to visit as many potential properties as you can. If\nyou’re interested in a house, visit it more than once. Make sure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 4. Get A Survey<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Make sure you get a full survey of a particular house before\nyou make an offer. This can show up any issues and save you spending money on\nsomething that isn’t worth it in the end, or having to pay for lots of repairs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 5. Consider A Low-Ball Offer<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n As a first-time buyer, you should be in a good position as you won’t have a chain. That means as long as you’ve got a mortgage in place, you’re ready for a quick purchase. Some sellers will like this, so consider a slightly lower offer. These will work more often in a falling property market, and especially with houses that have been on the market for a while (this is where your research can help).<\/p>\n\n\n\n