How to buy a house?

Silly question, huh. But buying a house or flat can be trickier than it seems – especially if you’re a first time buyer.

That’s why we’ve come up with the most common six steps to buying your first home – an at-a-glance list to what you should expect, both now and further down the line.

1. Register with an estate agent

Your estate agent will fast become your best friend throughout the buying process. They’re here to guide you through the buying process, answering your questions and will act as your go-between with the seller, giving you one less thing to worry about.

When you register with Wards, we’ll listen to your requirements and advise you of the best possible matches plus some alternative options that could suit you just as well. Our local knowledge is second to none – so even if you’re new to Kent, we’ll guide you through the local schools, transport and general feel of the area.

2. Look online for your new home

Did you know that 95% of property searches begin online? While nothing is better than seeing your next home in person, browsing through property listings online can help you to create a shortlist of houses or flats you’d like to see.

We list all of our properties on Rightmove, Zoopla, Primelocation and On The Market – making these websites an excellent place to start. What’s more, you can even experience a virtual tour for some properties on our website, allowing you to fully explore every nook and cranny from the comfort of your couch.

3. Secure your mortgage

It’s usually a good idea to secure a mortgage agreement in principle ahead of your viewings. This way, your seller will know that you’re already in a great position to progress with the sale.

To make things easier for you, in every major branch of Wards, we have an in-house Mortgage Advisor who can guide you through your options and even find the most suitable mortgage for you.

4. Book some viewings

Nothing beats seeing your new home in person so we suggest that you book a viewing as soon as you’ve decided that you like what you see online. Get in quickly as some properties can be sold almost as soon as they’re put on the market.

5. Make an offer

So, you’ve found the one – now the fun really begins. Decide what you’d like to offer and then get in touch with your seller’s estate agent.

6. Open a file with a conveyancer

While you’re having your offer mulled over, be proactive and instruct a solicitor or conveyancer. They’ll handle the legal side of the sale, from the searches and title deeds to the exchange of contracts. We have our own conveyancing team who offer their services at a fixed fee, with nothing to pay until you reach completion. So, if the worst should happen and your purchase were to fall through, you wouldn’t have to pay for their services.

Start looking for your new home