Today’s highly competitive market has seen more people taking the leap to get on the property ladder. With such demand for homes, and no sign of things slowing down soon, how can you get the property you are looking for?
- Get organised and do your research
Make a list of the areas you would like to live, research schools, amenities and transport links so that you know the areas which fit with you lifestyle. Identify what you desire in a property, then set up a search on the property portals so that you are notified when a property matches your criteria. Follow your local agents social media pages so that you are the first to know when a property is coming to the market. Consider registering your details with your local agent, this is the perfect way to be made aware of suitable properties before they go on the market.
2. Make sure your finances are ready
Meet with a mortgage adviser, find the best mortgage for your position and have a mortgage-in-principle organised. This will work in your favour when placing an offer.
3. Refine you search technique
Know your budget and look for properties under your budget. Properties are currently selling at an average of £275,000 and house prices are at an all time high. Because of this, we recommend you look under your budget and if you like the property enough to put an offer forward, then you have placed yourself in a strong position for the negotiations process, giving you the option of placing a higher offer which could make you the frontrunner for the sale.
4. Don’t leave it too late to put your house on the market
If you do find a house that you like, but have a property to sell, unless you can afford to buy without a mortgage then it is unlikely that your offer would be accepted. Houses are selling quickly and if someone comes along and likes the same house but is in a better position than you, then you will almost definitely miss out.
5. Act quickly
Buying a home is a huge decision and one that does need lots of thought. If you are prepared and know what you are looking for, if you view a property that you know is right for you and it hits all of the criteria that you had specified, then make sure you put your offer forward straight away. Sellers will favour a buyer who is organised and acts swiftly.
6. Be flexible on dates
Being flexible and an easy person to work with is paramount in buying a home in a crowded market. It’s important to make a seller’s life easier for them, so consider doing things like letting them pick the closing date if you can afford to do so. If you are in a property chain this will be harder to do but is a great piece of advice for first-time buyers.
7. Try to be positive
Be aware that there are many things that may go wrong during the house buying process and it can be a daunting experience. If something goes wrong seek advice from your agent.
If you are looking to get on the property ladder or are a buyer searching for your dream home. Contact us to see how we can help. There has been an unprecedented boom in the UK property market over the last year, use these top tips to help secure your dream home.