Buying Property - your quick guide

Welcome to buying section - your guide to buying the perfect house for you. Here you can find all the information you need to make buying a new house as pleasurable and stress free as possible. We will put all the information you need right at your finger tips - so you can spend your time actually looking at houses, not finding out what needs doing.

Putting in an offer

It's human nature to try to strike a deal, but if you find your ideal home and it seems to be priced correctly, consider offering the full asking price. This means you'll be taken seriously, there won't be any time-wasting and it will lessen the possibility of another party stepping - or gazumping you.

All offers should be made with the stipulation of taking the property off the market. Getting a 'Sold' board outside is a good way to dissuade others from looking. You might also want to ensure that all internet adverts for the property have been removed, to prevent any further interest.

Chains

One in three property chains fall apart. This can happen for numerous reasons, from one party not having their finances in order, to an unpleasant surprise in the survey.

Under present British house-buying and selling practice, little can be done to alter the process, although the Government has introduced legislation that will require home owners or their selling agents to provide a Home Information Pack (sellers pack or HIP) to prospective buyers on request.

The best way to ensure a chain progresses smoothly is through good communication. Stay in regular contact with your conveyancer and estate agent to make sure everything possible is being done to speed things along.
It can also help to stay flexible. Be prepared to move in with your family or rent as a short-term measure if it means you can keep the chain going.

For further information and advice on buying a property, please contact your local Ashtons branch and we'll be happy to assist you further.