Buying property with Bradford & Howley
Top tips for buying a property
A property is probably one of the most expensive assets you will own.
Making sure you understand the buying process will help make it a smooth transaction - if you need any further advice, our experts would be happy to help you.
How much can I afford?
Before you start your property search, you should have a clear understanding of what you can afford.
How much you can spend and all associated costs such as stamp duty will influence the price you are able to pay for your property.
Bradford and Howley work in partnership with Biggar Financial Planning who have access to the whole of the market as well as exclusive products.
They would be delighted to offer you reliable and honest advice to find the most suitable solution for you, free of charge!
Register with Bradford & Howley
Contact one of our experienced local property experts or register here so we can gain a clear understanding of all your property requirements, we can then keep you regularly updated of all suitable properties that become available.
Viewings
Allow yourself enough time to travel between your appointments so that you arrive on time (you don’t want to feel rushed when the next people turn up to view).
Be aware if you are meeting an agent or the homeowner - your agent will probably be waiting outside for you but if it's a homeowner, they'll expect a knock at the door.
Have a list of key questions prepared and don’t be afraid to ask them - you may also want to write things down so you can remember key details.
Remember you can always have a second viewing if required.
Be prepared to give honest feedback about each property you visit.
Making an offer
Once you have found a suitable property, be confident about making an offer, don’t delay as you could miss out. All offers will be communicated both verbally and in writing to the seller. Your ability to proceed and a copy of your Mortgage “Agreement In Principle” will help us present your offer in the best possible light.
Instructing a solicitor
Once your offer has been accepted, a Notification of Sale will be issued, to do this, you must have selected a solicitor. Without one, the agent will not be able to write the letter and confirm the sale.
At Bradford & Howley we recommend solicitors that have a proven track record for providing quality service and sound legal advice. Remember, the property will not come off the open market until a solicitor has been selected.
Conveyancing process
Your chosen solicitor will carry out the conveyancing process on your behalf, they will review the contract, raise enquiries, request relevant searches, agree fixtures and fittings and discuss and agree dates for exchange and completion.
At Bradford & Howley, we pride ourselves on sales progression, our dedicated team will liaise with all parties throughout the transaction, keeping everybody up to date. At the same time, you will need to submit your mortgage application and arrange any surveys.
Exchange of contracts
Once your solicitor has completed all the legal work, you have signed your contract and your mortgage offer has been issued, you are now ready to exchange.
Typically, a 10% deposit is required to exchange and a completion date is agreed.
Completion
Completion is the day the property becomes yours and the day you can move in.
The balance of the money will be transferred by the solicitor and once this has been confirmed, you can collect the keys to your new home.
Searching for your perfect home or investment? We have many properties that would suit you - just use our search or register with us for property updates!
