What to consider when buying a home

Buying your own home is a big step but needs some thought as it can be a confusing experience.
To ensure you make the right decision we’ve provided you with information on things you need to think about.

Choosing Your Property

Location, location, location! It is always important to decide what area you want to live in, considering all the things that are important to you such as commuting time, local schools, transport links, convenient shops, nice restaurants etc.

After selecting the location you like you need to consider whether you want a house or a flat, is a garden important and how many bedrooms you need. Its worth considering how long you are expecting to stay at that address – is it for a year or two, or more long term (as if its longer you need to think about not only what you need now, but may need in a few years time etc).

Try to let your head rule your heart rather than the other way around – and be prepared to compromise!

Key considerations:-

Local Area
Distance of commute to work
Schools
Transport links
Amenities – parks/leisure facilities/gyms /restaurants/cafes etc
Property Type
House/Flat
Number of bedrooms
Garage or Garden needed
Traditional or contemporary
Property running costs
Heating/Council Tax/Water/Electric/Insurance
Other maintenance costs

Affordability

Make sure you speak to one of our mortgage advisers and find out what you can realistically afford to pay for a property

Availability

Are there a lot of properties meeting your criteria or very few (if there are a lot you can afford to be choosier and potentially offer less, if not then you may need to compromise more and be more flexible in your bids)

All these factors need to be considered - and can help you make the right decisions!