The buying process.

Stage 1:

Find out how much you can afford

• Decide whether you want to live on your own or with a co-buyer. If you move into together the mortgage should be in joint names.

• Get a rough idea of how much you can borrow.

• Find out what it will cost each month.

Stage 2:

Work out which mortgage you want

• If you are not sure about the pros and cons of the different mortgages in the market place discuss this with your local IFA or mortgage provider.

• Click here to view IFA’s and Mortgage Brokers from our providers directory.

Stage 3:

Find the right property

• Decide on the type of home you want

• Choose the location

• See what you can afford

• Click here to see Estate Agents

Stage 4:

Make an offer

• Find a property you like.

• Your offer should only reflect what the property is worth to you.

• Decide how much you can afford and make an offer.

• If your offer is accepted ,appoint a solicitor

• Click here to see Solicitors

Stage 5:

If you offer is accepted finalise your mortgage details.

• Tell your IFA/Mortgage Broker how much you need to borrow.

• Give them the details of the property.

• Your solicitor will get in touch with the vendors solicitor. They will begin the legal process of transferring ownership of the property to you.

• Arrange a valuation and get your deposit ready.

Stage 6:

How to arrange a valuation and survey.

• Your lender will always arrange for a valuer to carry out a mortgage valuation on the property you want to buy to confirm it is worth what they are lending.

• The valuation report will not however tell you whether or not the price you are paying is fair nor will it give you a detailed picture of the condition of the property. We would advise that you obtain a more detailed survey by appointing your own Surveyor.

• Click here to see Surveyors

Stage 7:

Exchanging your contracts and paying your deposit.

• It is important to remember that exchanging contracts is the point of no return. If either you or the vendor back out now it could mean loss of deposit or legal action.

• If you are happy with the searches and buyer survey your solicitors will exchange contracts.

• Pay the deposit.

• Agree a completion date.

• Arrange building insurance.

Stage 8:

Completing and moving in.

• Get ready to move in.

• Prepare to pay all your remaining expenses and costs.

• When you complete the property is yours.

• Arrange to pick up the keys.

• Your mortgage will now start.