First time buyer guide

Whether you have bought a house before or are a first time buyer, buying a house is a complex process and there is a lot to consider.

Our guide to buying a house has six sections that you can follow in order to get a comprehensive understanding of the entire process, from saving to moving into your new house. Or, if you have bought before but need advice on specific aspects of buying a house, just read the section or sections that apply.

1) Costs of buying a house

A breakdown of the key costs involved in buying a property so you can create a realistic budget and work out what you can afford.

» Read Costs of buying a house article

2) Getting a mortgage

Understand the options available beforehand, and what paperwork you need for your mortgage appointment to start the process.

» Read Getting a mortgage article

3) Your property search

How to identify the right property and location to get your ideal home. Advice on what to consider before you start your property search.

» Read Your property search article

4) Viewing houses

When looking for your perfect home, get the most out of viewings by finding out what to look out for and the best questions to ask.

» Read Viewing houses article

5) Making an offer

Before making an offer on your chosen property, take a look at some of these factors to consider as well as how and when to negotiate.

» Read Making an offer article

6) The move

Moving house is among the most stressful things we will experience. Use our house moving checklist to help remove some of the stress.

» Read Checklist for moving house article

7) Preventing property fraud

Here we provide details of 2 kinds of fraud that exist in the property market – and what action could be taken to prevent it.

» Read Preventing property fraud article