Date Published 13 May 2023
We all hope that summer is here to stay - along with more relaxed and encouraging times. First time buyers will be ‘dipping their toes' into the housing pool for the first time – here are a few things to consider.
Before you get going on your search we suggest you spend a bit of time thinking through what you want – and what constraints like budget and timing you will need to deal with. We've detailed below some things you should consider
Location
- Is it convenient for your work commute?
- Does it help you to keep well connected to relatives and friends – will they find it easy/convenient?
- Does the area have the amenities that you need – schools, food outlets, cafes, restaurants, pubs?
- Does the area have your kind of ‘vibe' – could you see yourself living there?
- Have you looked at different areas of Bath – this is a great opportunity to challenge your own thinking and really explore different costed areas to see what they can offer.
Accommodation
- Are you looking for a period property, or something more contemporary – could you expand your possibilities so that you make the best use of your budget? It's a great idea to be open when you start looking – often this will inform your final choices. No viewing is wasted - seeing properties that aren't for you will help you to establish exactly what is right – and this is wonderful research to do.
What is your budget:?
Very important this question - and are you also borrowing money to purchase, being given a gift, or buying with someone else, You need to know exactly where your money is coming from – as you will need to show evidence for your funds early on in the process. Consider too what additional costs your purchase could bring – for example – a new boiler, different furniture that fits better, a new sofa bed if you haven't got room for guests (those guests won't mind really!)
What is your timing?
Are there are any key dates that will impact your move – do you have to be in the area by a certain date? If you are renting what is your notice period like? Are you going on holiday at any time which makes you unavailable to view potential homes? Consider your timings carefully – at the moment the average sale takes 4 months from the point of offering to moving in, so you need to factor this time into your planning.
What is your contingency plan?
If there are delays anywhere along the way (we really hope not but these do happen) how will you deal with this – do you have an understanding friend who can put you up. Can you delay the job move or work from home? It is a good idea to consider what might happen – it sure helps to have a plan!
We know here at Strattons that the process can be stressful – and we really want to help to minimize this! If you would like to have an informal chat about moving to Bath and how this could work for you,
please give us a ring – we will be very happy to help!
GETTING THE RIGHT TEAM
For our next blog in a few weeks time we will talk about – not just about getting on well with the selling agent and working with them, but also finding an effective solicitor, mortgage provider, surveyor, financial adviser and of course an efficient moving company. Just remember - millions of people have done this and lived to tell the tale – and the reward of a wonderful new place to live makes it all worthwhile
