Moving is one of the most stressful things you will go through in your life. The Express Newspaper claims moving is more stressful than getting a divorce.
Here at Attwells Solicitors we understand the impact buying or selling your home can have on your life. For us, being legal property experts, we consider the unexpected and have a clear understanding of the timeline.
Based on our experience of conveyancing we have produced a top 5 list of things to consider before making an offer on a property. These tips will ensure that the house you have just viewed, is your dream home.
Top 5 things to consider before making an offer on your next home
1. Does the property fulfil your basic requirements?
What is important to you? Before you begin viewing properties, it may be worth writing a list of needs and “nice-to-haves”. For example, if you are a first-time buyer, with no children, you may not require three bedrooms, however would consider two. But, you might need off road parking for at least one vehicle.
2. Do the local amenities suit your needs?
If you have young children, it may be important to have a local primary school and park, in walking distance. In addition, you may which to consider visitor parking, a local pub, a corner shop and transport links.
3. Can you afford it?
Before viewing any house, we would suggest you speak to your bank, or research your mortgage options. Having a mortgage offer in principal will help manage your expectations, plus save you a lot of time and heartache.
4. Will the property still fulfil your basic requirements in a year or so?
We know it’s difficult to predict the future, things change all the time, but if in the back of your mind, you’re thinking you’d like to start a family, it may be worth considering an extra bedroom now. Likewise, if you’re purchasing a home on your own, you might want to consider, what you would do, if you decided to move in with a partner. Similarly, if you purchase a home jointly, what would happen if you separated? Could you afford the mortgage repayments? Do you require a Living Together Agreement?
5. If you would like to make changes to the property, are they within your capabilities?
Sometimes we imagine how the house could look, without thought of how we will achieve it. Searches will be carried out during the conveyancing process, but if you are considering an extension, or knocking down a wall, make sure you know all the costs involved and include a contingency budget.
Said Yes to all 5 questions?
If you have answered yes to all of these questions, that’s excellent, it’s now time to call Attwells Solicitors on Ipswich, 01473 229200 or Colchester, 01206 766333 or our London office, 0207 722 9898, to arrange your conveyancing.
