First-time Guide To Buying With Hardisty
Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, but it can also feel overwhelming. At Hardisty, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Understanding each stage of the buying journey and knowing what to expect can help you feel more confident and prepared. With a trusted, experienced agent by your side, the process becomes simpler and far less stressful. Our knowledgeable local team is committed to guiding you from the very beginning, helping you get off to the best possible start.
The home buying process -
The following steps provide a top-level overview of what to expect during the home buying process. While they cover the typical journey, it's important to keep in mind that unexpected twists or delays can occasionally arise along the way.
Saving for a deposit -
The larger the deposit you have available, the better position you are as a buyer. Having a bigger deposit means more mortgage options, potentially better rates and a wider selection of properties.
Speak to a mortgage advisor -
When you're ready to take the next step toward buying, it's important to speak with lenders or mortgage advisors to understand exactly how much you can borrow. At Hardisty, we work in partnership with Mortgage Advice Bureau (MAB), who are here to support you and help you navigate the mortgage process with confidence. They’ll provide a clear picture of your budget, helping you narrow down your property search and make informed decisions from the start.
They will apply for you to have a Mortgage in Principle (MIP) which shows the seller that you are a serious buyer and can afford your proposed offer.
Begin your search & make an offer -
Talk to your agent about your wants, needs and preferences, our property experts will then match you with available homes that align with your criteria. Once you’ve viewed a property you'd like to make an offer on, simply submit your offer through your agent. They’ll handle all the paperwork and communicate directly with the seller on your behalf. You can rest assured knowing our friendly team will guide you through each step and keep you updated throughout the entire process.
Hire a conveyancer/solicitor -
It’s essential to hire a conveyancer or solicitor to deal with all the legal aspects of the sale from paperwork to handling contracts. We work with a trusted panel who we can recommend to you, so you know you are in safe hands.
Get a Survey completed -
A property survey offers valuable insights into the condition of your potential future home. It can uncover issues such as damp, structural damage, or other hidden problems that may affect your decision to buy. While surveys are highly recommended, some mortgage lenders may also require one as part of their approval process. Having a survey carried out ensures you're making an informed investment and can help avoid costly surprises later on.
Negotiating your offer (if necessary) -
If the survey reveals unexpected issues, you may need to revise your offer to reflect the cost of necessary repairs. Being informed early allows you to make confident, well-informed decisions and avoid surprises later in the process.
Get your insurance -
It’s important to protect both yourself and your investment. At this stage, consider taking out homebuyers insurance, which can help cover costs such as legal, survey and mortgage fees if the sale unexpectedly falls through. This added protection can safeguard you from financial loss and provide peace of mind during the buying process.
Exchange contracts -
Your conveyancer or solicitor will manage the exchange of contracts with the seller, a legally binding step where both parties commit to the sale. This marks a key milestone in the buying process and confirms that the transaction is moving forward.
Move in day! -
On completion day, once all funds have been successfully transferred and the transaction is confirmed, you'll receive the keys and officially take ownership of your new home.
