Speak to a mortgage adviser

Mortgage advisers can give you an idea of how much you will be paying monthly on certain properties, taking various fees and rates into account. They will also be able to tell you whether your budget is enough to get you the property you want and what deal they believe is best in light of interest rate developments.

Start with an open mind

There is the danger of becoming too fixated on certain locations or certain properties. It’s important to be open when searching for your first home, ensuring that you’re considering all locations and types of houses. Often buyers become stressed because they have narrowed their search down too far too early.

Talk to your local estate agent

It’s worth booking in a conversation with your local estate agents as after all, they are the experts. They will be able to give you an idea of properties available in the area, upcoming areas to search in and whether your budget is realistic to where and what you’re looking for.

Check out the location before putting an offer in

You don’t want to commit to a house before even knowing what the location or neighbourhood is like. If you fail to do this, you could be stuck…for a long time! It’s a good idea to identify three to four neighbourhoods you’d like to live in based on commute time, schools, recreation, crime, and price.

Use property finding websites

With the world evolving, property search websites have become the most popular way in finding properties for sale and to rent. They are easy to use, open all hours, provide you accurate results and you don’t even have to move from the sofa! Some of the many include Rightmove, Zoopla and OnTheMarket.