Advice for Property Buyers

Prior to starting your search

The fastest way of finding your ideal home is by creating a wish list and sharing it with your estate agent.

The list should detail everything that you'd like from your ideal property such as the price range, your preferred location(s) and the style of property. You should also consider whether you are prepared to conduct minor updates or renovations, and, of course, you should outline the minimum requirements for the number of bedrooms, bathrooms and car parking you require, plus the aspect and surrounding views you prefer.

If you are looking for an investment property, then you should also discuss the matter with your accountant / tax adviser so you can identify the right kind of property to suit your own personal needs. You could also create a basic spreadsheet with repayments, rental income, outgoings and depreciation allowances to give you an overall investment picture.

Lastly, we would also recommend that you get your financing pre-approved, that way you can conduct your property search with all the facts at hand and, in addition, be a more 'attractive' buyer.

During the search

Be open and upfront with us about your thoughts and provide constructive feedback wherever possible. At Just Property we are here to help and the more information we have, the better chance we have of matching you with your perfect home.

Register with us to receive new listings ahead of other buyers and be prepared to spend at least a few weeks viewing properties.

Don't be too disheartened if you are unable find the ideal property straight away. Looking for a home can be time consuming and frustrating at times. Hang in there, remember your original wish list but be open to compromise. Approach each viewing with an open mind as many people overlook the potential in certain homes because of the way they currently presented or arranged.

Finally, 'action equals results', so be prepared to make a quick decision when the right property comes along.

After your offer has been accepted

Once you have found your dream property, the next stage is to make an offer. We will put your offer forward to the vendor verbally and in writing. If your offer is rejected and you are still interested in the property, further negotiations will take place. Just Property will make every effort to keep this process as simple and as stress-free as possible.

It's important to note, that, in England, there is no legal obligation to you or the vendor until a contract is signed, consequently all offers submitted are subject to contract. This means that until contracts have been exchanged either party can withdraw.

After your offer is accepted by the vendor Just Property will arrange for the agreed terms to be sent in writing to all parties. It is at this stage you should instruct your solicitor/conveyancer and discuss preferable exchange and completion dates. In addition, you will also need to instruct your mortgage broker/provider to proceed with your application and make arrangements for the survey.