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Finance
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How to find your dream property
How to find your dream property
In my first article (Mortgages for first time buyers, where to start?), I briefly discussed the whole property buying process. Now that you know the basics, it’s time to start searching!
Where are properties advertised?
The majority of people advertise their property through an estate agent. We’ve all see the property pages in the newspapers and countless estate agents dotted around towns. Nowadays you can search the Internet as well. Some people do the advertising themselves, so it may be worth asking friends and family.
As estate agents aren’t regulated, you need to make sure that you go through a reputable company. The best ones are usually members of a trade association.
The visit
Once you’ve seen several properties of interest, give the estate agents a call and they’ll take down your requirements. They’ll then arrange a suitable time and date for a viewing. It’s a good idea to prepare a list of questions before you go. This could include: reasons for owners wanting to leave, any future work needed and most importantly, what price the owners are willing to accept. Don’t feel pressurised into making any snap decisions!
Making an offer
If you’ve fallen in love with a property and you’re 100% sure it’s the one for you, then it’s time to make an offer. This stage can often be a ‘chicken and egg’ situation. You can’t apply for a mortgage until you’ve seen a property, but you need to know what you can afford first. There is no set rule, but personally I would get my finances sorted out beforehand. This ensures that you’re prepared if anything goes wrong.
Once your offer has been accepted, you’re all set for the endless form filling that accompanies the mortgage application!
Fiona Seymour-Jesse
SJ Copy
Articles
Dealing with Estate Agents
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/2946170.stm
Useful Links
National Association of Estate Agents
http://www.naea.co.uk.
Search properties across the UK
http://www.rightmove.co.uk/
Property search engine
http://www.wheresmyproperty.com/
Useful Guides
http://www.mypropertyforsale.co.uk/guides.php
The finance pages of Business in Berkshire are for general guidance only and advice should always be sought before acting on any of the suggestions made
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