Buying your first home
15th Nov 2023
Buying your first home can be an exciting but overwhelming experience. With so many options to choose from, it can feel daunting trying to find the perfect home that fits your lifestyle and budget. Here are some tried and tested tips and tricks for finding your ideal home as a first-time buyer.
Determine your budget
Before you start looking for a home, it’s important to determine your budget. This will help you narrow down your options and ensure that you are only looking at homes that are within your price range. When setting your budget, consider factors such as your deposit amount, monthly mortgage repayments, and any fees you may incur throughout the buying process. Fees can include survey and search fees, Stamp Duty Land Tax and solicitors’ fees.
Consider your must-haves
Make a list of your must-haves when it comes to your first home. Do you need a certain number of bedrooms or bathrooms? Would you prefer a private garden or outdoor space? Do you need to be close to public transport routes or schools? Knowing your must-haves can help you focus your search and find a home that fits your needs.
Look for a home in a desirable location
Location is everything when it comes to buying a home. Look for a home in a desirable location that has a good reputation for safety, schools, and amenities like parks, shops, and restaurants. A good location can also help to increase the value of your home over time.
Work with a mortgage advisor
Working with a mortgage advisor can provide you with insider knowledge of the local housing market and help you find homes that fit your criteria and budget. Their expertise can provide you with valuable insights and guidance for informed property investment decisions, increasing the chances of finding your ideal home within your financial means. Please contact one of our Sales Co-ordinators if you would like to be referred to an independent financial advisor who is fully qualified to offer independent mortgage advice.
Consider a new build
There are many benefits when it comes to buying a new build as your first home, one of which is that new build homes tend to be highly energy efficient as they comply with the latest building regulations. So typically, you can make significant savings on your energy bills. Buying a new build home also means you’ll be chain-free as you won’t have a chain of buyers above you, so there’s no risk of your purchase falling through due to something going wrong ahead of you, which can take away one of the main stresses of buying a home. When it comes to moving in, there will be no renovation work to carry out as new builds often have very little that needs doing to them since everything is brand new. This means you can start unpacking your things and start enjoying your new home straight away. You also have the reassurance that you are covered by a new home warranty for structural defects due to faulty materials or workmanship for up to 10 years.
Be patient
Finding the perfect home takes time, so be patient. Don’t settle for a home that doesn’t meet your needs or exceeds your budget. Keep looking until you find the home that feels like the perfect fit. Speak with our experienced Sales Co-ordinators who will gladly inform you of the different house types and availability we have at present and plots that are likely to becoming available in the near future. Their extensive knowledge and expertise can help guide you through the process as seamlessly as possible.
In conclusion, finding the perfect home for first-time buyers can be a challenging but rewarding experience. By setting your budget, considering your must-haves, looking for a home in a desirable location, working with a sales co-ordinator, and being patient, you can find the home of your dreams. Remember, buying a home is a big decision, so take your time and don’t rush into anything. By following our tips and tricks on finding the perfect home, you’ll be one step closer to making your dream of owning your own home a reality.