Purchasing a home is a significant milestone, especially for first-time buyers. This journey can seem daunting, but with the right guidance from Robsons it becomes an exciting and rewarding experience. We are able to help every step of the way, from viewings through to completion.

Here is a comprehensive guide to help you confidently navigate the home-buying process.

Assessing Your Financial Readiness

Before embarking on your property search, evaluate your financial situation. Review your savings, income and any existing debts to determine your budget. Understanding what you can afford will streamline your search. Additionally, obtaining a mortgage pre-approval will give you a clear picture of your borrowing capacity and demonstrate to sellers that you are a serious buyer.

Defining Your Home Preferences

Identify what you desire in a home. Consider location, property type, size and essential features. Reflecting on your lifestyle and plans will help you to make choices that best suit your needs.

Working with an Estate Agent

Engaging with quality estate agents, such as Robsons, can significantly ease the home buying process.  Our experienced Teams are extremely knowledgeable about locations, property types and the purchasing process, which all ensure you make informed decisions.

Exploring the Property Market

With your preferences in mind, begin exploring begin exploring the property market by registering with us, so that we can ensure we have a full understanding of your requirements. Also have a look at our website and the online portals. Our extensive portfolio includes properties along the Metropolitan Line commuter stretch, covering areas from North Middlesex through Hertfordshire to South Buckinghamshire. We pride ourselves on being market leaders in these regions, offering various properties to suit different budgets and lifestyles.

Making an Offer on a Property

Once you have found a property that meets your requirements, the next step is to make an offer.  Discussing your offer with the estate agent enables you to mention any questions you may have and to fully understand the vendor’s expectations, regarding completion dates etc. We are able to assist you through this process.

Understanding the Legal Process

The legalities involved in purchasing a home can be complex. Choosing the correct solicitor, with legal and property expertise, will safeguard your interests throughout the transaction. It is important to decide what type of solicitor you would like. We find that many people prefer a local solicitor who they can physically visit, whether it is to go through the Contract or any questions they may have, or the ease of dropping off documentation to them. Buying a property via Robsons ensures you have assistance throughout this process, from completing the initial solicitors forms, through to completion. We are regularly in touch with the solicitors during the transaction to ensure the process runs as smoothly as possible.

Finalising Your Mortgage and Finances

With the legal process underway, you can now finalise your mortgage application. The lender may organise a mortgage valuation or carry out a desktop valuation, to ensure they are happy with the property value. If they are conducting a mortgage valuation you or your broker can pass on our details to the valuer and we can arrange this appointment with the vendor. When the mortgage offer has been approved, they will issue a Mortgage Offer. 

Conducting a Survey 

Buyers can appoint a professional surveyor to carry out a survey of the property they are purchasing. Once appointed, you can pass our details to the surveyor and they can arrange this appointment with us direct. We will then let you know as soon as this has been booked in. Once surveyed, the surveyor will contact you with your Survey Report.

Exchange of Contracts

When your solicitor has completed all the legal aspects of the transaction (ie. enquiries, searches etc), the solicitors in the chain can then move forward to exchange of Contracts. All parties need to have agreed a completion date beforehand and your solicitor will need to obtain your approval on the actual day of exchange, so that he can proceed to exchange Contracts. Once exchange of Contracts has taken place, you will have comfort in knowing the actual date you will be moving and you can also update your removal company. It would also be a good idea to set up a redirection for your post if you haven’t updated everyone already.

Completion — Your Moving Day

On the day of completion, Robsons will stay in touch with yourselves and the solicitors to ensure everything is running smoothly.  You should arrange to have everything packed up in the morning, ready to be moved into your new home and your meter readings have been read, so that you can pass this to your energy providers.  Your solicitor will be in touch with your lender and the other solicitors in the chain, to ensure the monies are transferred in time and we are then given authority to release keys. 

Moving into Your New Home

Moving can be both exciting and challenging. We can recommend trusted removal services to assist with your relocation and ensure your belongings are transported safely. Once settled, take the time to familiarise yourself with your new community and its amenities.

Moving into Your New Home

Moving is an exciting experience, where all your planning has come together.  Once you are in your new home, it is important to take new meter readings and pass these to your energy providers. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the first steps in buying a home?

Begin by assessing your financial readiness and obtaining a mortgage in principle. Next, define your home preferences and consult a reputable estate agent such as Robsons to guide you through the process.

How long does the home-buying process take?

The timeline for purchasing a property can vary, but it takes approximately 12 weeks, from making an offer to completion.

What costs should I prepare for beyond the mortgage?

Additional costs include stamp duty, legal fees, survey fees and moving expenses. Budgeting for these is essential to avoid surprises.

How can I improve my chances of mortgage approval?

Maintain a good credit score, manage your debts responsibly and save for a deposit.

What should I look for during a home inspection?

Focus on the property’s structural integrity, roofing, plumbing and electrical systems, as well as any signs of dampness or pest infestations.

When is the best time to buy a house?

There is no best time to buy a property, as everyone’s circumstances are different.  For instance, if you want to be in your property before the start of the next school year, it’s important to give yourself enough time beforehand to ensure you don’t miss the school deadline.

Conclusion

At Robsons, we’re committed to making your home-buying journey as straightforward and enjoyable as possible. With our expertise and personalised approach, we’ll be with you every step of the way, ensuring you find the perfect home that suits your lifestyle and aspirations.