Our Top Tips for Buyers in a Busy Property Market
Searching for your next home? Currently a record number of people are looking to move. Family homes are at the top of many buyers' wish lists.
Here are 5 things you can do to make sure you're in the best position to buy when you find the perfect property:
- Funds
If you're not a cash buyer, you will need to apply for a mortgage in principle. You will save valuable time making sure you've got this before viewing properties. The first thing estate agents should ask you is if you have a mortgage in principle, and if you have proof of funds ready to pay the deposit. Some sellers are asking for verified viewers only so agents are asking to see your proof of funds before a viewing can be booked in. This is to reduce 'window shoppers', by this we mean viewers who won't organise their funds until they've viewed or put an offer in which means they're not ready to buy and the offer can't be formally accepted.
- Do you have your home to sell in order to move?
If you have a property to sell, contact your local estate agent now about getting it listed for sale. You'll be in a stronger position as a buyer if you are in the process of selling your home or have already accepted an offer. Remember as soon as you go live anyone who has signed up to matches at Dinsdales and On the Market will get an alert that your property is new and live on the market.
- Search on Property Platforms
Looking on platforms means you'll be viewing more homes virtually and you'll be able to sign up for property alerts, meaning you won't miss anything in your criteria you select as an instant alert will come to you as soon as the property has gone live. This will keep you on top of what is available in your ideal location, putting you in the best position to find your perfect home.
- Property Alerts
Make sure you utilise property matching/alerts. Property alerts and matching works behind the scenes, by emailing you as soon as a new property matches your buying criteria.
- Find a Solicitor
Do you have a solicitor you use to help with the conveyancing? Valuable time can be lost once your offer has been accepted if you still need to find someone to help you get the documentation for the sale completed. If you're struggling to find a solicitor you can trust, you can always ask who your estate agent recommends from past completed sales.
Source: RM
