Buying your first home is exciting but overwhelming. Here are 15 things first-time buyers wish they'd known before they started—learn from others' experience.
Financial Tips
1. Get a Mortgage Agreement in Principle First
Before viewing properties, know what you can borrow. An Agreement in Principle (AIP) shows sellers you're serious and ready.
2. Your Budget Is Less Than Your Maximum Mortgage
Just because you CAN borrow £300,000 doesn't mean you should. Leave room for rate rises and life changes.
3. Factor in ALL Costs
Deposit is just the start. Surveys, solicitors, moving costs, furniture, and renovations add up fast.
4. Don't Forget Running Costs
Council tax, utilities, insurance, maintenance—your monthly costs will be higher than rent.
⚠️ The First-Year Shock
Most first-time buyers underestimate year-one costs. Everything needs buying—bins, curtains, light bulbs, cleaning supplies. Budget extra.
House Hunting Tips
5. Location Matters More Than the House
You can change the kitchen, but you can't move the property. Prioritize location, commute, and area.
6. View Multiple Times
Visit at different times of day. Morning traffic? Evening noise? Weekend parking? These matter.
7. Look Past the Staging
Nice furniture and clever photography hide problems. Look at the bones of the property.
8. Check Mobile Signal and Internet
Seriously. Test your phone in every room. Check broadband availability.
Calculate Your Mortgage
Use our mortgage calculator to see what you can afford.
Process Tips
9. Get a Good Solicitor
Cheap conveyancing often means slow conveyancing. Ask for recommendations and read reviews.
10. Always Get a Survey
The basic mortgage valuation isn't a survey. Pay for at least a Homebuyer Report—it could save you thousands.
11. Be Prepared to Walk Away
If the survey reveals problems or you have doubts, it's OK to pull out. Better than regret.
12. The Process Takes Longer Than Expected
Average time from offer to completion: 12-16 weeks. Don't give notice until exchange happens.
Negotiation Tips
13. Always Negotiate
Asking price is a starting point. Research sold prices in the area and make a sensible offer.
14. First-Time Buyer Status Is Valuable
You have no chain—sellers love this. Use it as leverage in negotiations.
15. Don't Get Emotionally Attached
Until you exchange contracts, it can fall through. Keep emotions in check.
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