A Guide to Buying Property
At Angus & Co, we take pride in helping people find their perfect home. Over the years, we’ve built up a wealth of knowledge about what to do, and what to avoid, when buying property.
Here are our seven top tips, in no particular order, to help make your buying journey as smooth and successful as possible:
• Budget carefully – Buying a home often costs more than expected. Be sure to factor in all expenses, including surveys, mortgage arrangement fees, and legal costs.
• Check your credit score – Before applying for a mortgage, it’s worth ensuring your credit score is accurate and up to date.
• Get a Mortgage in Principle – Having a mortgage in principle and proof of your deposit shows sellers and agents that you’re a serious buyer.
• Research the area – Spend time getting to know the neighbourhoods you’re considering. Visit at different times of day, explore local amenities, and even speak to residents to get a feel for the community.
• Understand leasehold vs. freehold – If you’re buying a leasehold property, find out how many years are left on the lease. Anything under 80 years could be costly to extend, so consider this carefully.
• Choose your solicitor wisely – Not all conveyancers offer the same level of service. Get at least three quotes and remember that the cheapest option isn’t always the best.
• Build relationships with estate agents – Estate agents can be your best allies. By developing a good rapport, you might be the first to hear when desirable properties come onto the market.
While we believe these tips will serve you well, please note they are for general guidance only and do not constitute legal advice specific to your situation.
Find out how much your home is worth
Curious about the value of your property? At Angus & Co, we offer a free and no-obligation property valuation service. Our experienced valuers will assess your property’s market value based on factors such as its location, size, condition, and recent sales in the area.