Buying or selling a house can be a long and complicated process. Here are some tips you can put in place early-on to limit house-moving stress.
Finding the right mortgage
Finding a mortgage can be stressful as there are so many to choose from with varying interest rates and conditions attached to it. Applications for a mortgage are formally made once an offer on the property has been accepted, at a time when you will have plenty of other things to organise. You can prepare for this by doing your own research as early as possible or engaging with a mortgage broker, to understand your options and obtain a mortgage in principle. This will speed up the process once your offer has been accepted.
Engaging with the right conveyancer
Your conveyancing solicitor will guide you through transferring property ownership from the seller to the buyer. It is important you select one immediately after having an offer accepted to get the process started and to limit any delays. The best way to minimise stress is to choose an experienced conveyancer who will assist you with frequent communication and support.
Your solicitor will order searches, organise contracts, deal with the Land Registry and transfer of monies. You will not need to worry about liaising with the other party as your solicitor will do this on your behalf while keeping you in the loop.
Engaging with an estate agent
It’s equally important to receive regular communications from your estate agent as they will be an additional point of contact for all parties involved.
Remaining organised and communicative
Whether you’re buying or selling a house, your solicitor will need you to share identity, mortgage and insurance documents, as well as signing contracts. Your solicitor can let you know in advance which exact documents will be needed and by when. You can help speed up this process by filing up-to-date documents and returning them to your solicitor as quickly as possible. This will help to avoid any delays in completion.
The duration of the process can vary depending on the circumstances. If the property is leasehold, the transaction will likely take a little longer while your conveyancer gathers extra information on rent and service charges. Your conveyancer and your estate agent will work towards a completion date that suits all parties involved, but it is important to remain realistic throughout the transaction.
Preparing to move
You can start preparing your move once a completion date has been agreed. Booking a removal company will come at an extra cost but will reduce moving stress if you need additional help. If you choose to do so, book the service early on to make sure they will be available on your moving date before the property is due to be cleared.
At Attwells, we know that moving house can be a stressful experience, but our experienced conveyancers will guide you through the process and make it as stress-free as possible.
