Posted: Wednesday, January 11, 2023

A guide to finding your new home in 2023

Finding a home that’s right for you in today’s market is similar to shopping for a specific item in a mega-store. With so much to choose from, you will need to check every possible avenue and be prepared to ask a few questions along the way. Luckily, all you really need is a solid game plan and an open mind to find your new home this year – which is why we’ve put together this simple guide to help you on your way!

 

Know what you’re looking for

Browsing through properties is often fun and exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming at times. The housing market has plenty to offer, and you might want to narrow down your search by deciding on what it is exactly that you’re looking for. Scrolling through pages and pages of listings can make choosing one seem impossible, but if you establish a search criterion, you won’t waste any time looking at homes that you would never live in. You may not be able to check all of your desired features off the list, but it’s a great place to start!

Browsing through properties is often fun and exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming at times.

 

Decide if you should sell first

If you are already a homeowner, you will need to decide whether you want to sell your current property before buying your next. This is an important decision that comes with some risks, but you can certainly put yourself in a strong position by selling first. A buyer that can offer a ‘chain-free’ transaction has a good chance of getting their offer accepted, especially if the seller is looking for a quick move. However, the risk is that you may end up selling your home long before you find your next one, so you will need to thoroughly weigh up your options before coming to a decision.  

 

Settle on a budget

Your focus may be on how much of a deposit you can get together, but don’t forget to prepare for the additional costs of buying a home. These can add a substantial sum to the overall price of moving, particularly if you plan on doing serious building or redecoration work. Settling on a final budget will allow you to proceed with confidence – and you’ll also avoid overspending. 

 

Choose a location

Whether you’re relocating or sticking close to your roots, deciding on an area will not be an easy decision. Do you want a ‘happening’ place with nearby amenities and travel links? Or would you prefer the peace and quiet of a rural setting? Whatever your preference is, make sure that the area is fundamentally suited to you and your family by checking crime rates, transport links and local schools.

Whether you’re relocating or sticking close to your roots, deciding on an area will not be an easy decision.

 

Plan for growth

Your future plans may dictate the type of home you’ll choose. Are you looking for a modest first home with plans to move up in a few years, or do you hope to stay in the home for the next five to ten years? For a first home, you may need to keep your expectations grounded, but if you’re planning on nesting, make sure you choose a big enough home that you’ll still love in years to come. 

 

Contact us 

If you’re looking to sell your property or would like more help with preparing for your next big move, contact your local Guild Member today.

 

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Read What Our
Customers Say

I can't speak more highly of the team at Homesearch. When I met Michael to discuss the sale of my home instantly from that meeting, I could tell how knowledgeable they were. From that moment until closing, everything went absolutely flawless. This experience of selling went without a hitch with them giving great tips on preparing my home for viewings. Thank you. I really appreciate all your help during this process. I highly recommend Homesearch to any person who is looking to sell their home or buy a new home.

Loretta Barrett, Seller

I started with two very well known real estates, but I hated it. I was simply another number to them and I didn't feel they were honest and transparent. With HomeSearch I felt comfortable that they were on my side and they were always available to help. The process is hard enough, so having a team who supports you can make such a difference. Highly recommend.

Arian Barvarz, Seller

The reason we chose Homesearch to sell our property was that we liked the straightforward, no-nonsense approach of both Anna and Michael. They gave an honest appraisal of our property and a clear idea of what we could expect to sell it for. In fact, the offer we accepted exceeded our expectations. The sale took longer than we would have liked, due to delays caused by the buyers' solicitor, but Michael was tenacious and must have worn his phone out keeping everyone informed of progress.

Nicola Watson, Seller

Homesearch are hands down the best agent I have ever worked with ! The team helped me in an extremely complex sale. Without the knowledge and experience of the whole team, my sale would not have completed. I dont normally write reviews, only when they are truly deserved. An exceptional team! Very kind and personable, reliable & trustworthy.

Leslie John, Seller

My experience with Homesearch is that they are professional, friendly and go above and beyond to ensure that something stressful like selling a house runs as smoothly and stress free as possible. They work hard to get the results and have kept me updated throughout the process. I honestly could not recommend them enough, they are easily the best company I’ve dealt with in the buying/selling houses field. And to top it all off, they always answer the phone in the most pleasant tone and always provide service with a smile.

Chanelle Hunte, Seller

Homesearch are PROFESSIONALS. I sold my property through Homesearch and I have not dealt with a more competent agency. Every single person  dealt with knew exactly what they were talking about and I can tell that they all have knowledge in the industry and were not just picked up from the street. From the get go I was impressed and I will certainly do business with them again.

Paul Hobbs, Seller

Many thanks Homesearch for locating professional corporate tenants for my property. I am very happy with your property management service as you always ensure that the tenants give the property back in good order at check out. Five Stars!

Maria Foran, Landlord

I have been absolutely delighted with the exceptional service I have received from Homesearch. They have removed all the stress & hassle of renting my property and dealt with all manner of situations I would have struggled with in such a professional & courteous manner. They give valuable unbiased advice with such a wealth of experience. Nothing is ever too much trouble for the staff, who are always friendly & helpful. Homesearch let and managed my property and I am very happy with their property management services, they are very knowledgeable.

Paula Carter, Landlord

Homesearch always do what they say they will do. They are efficient and raise any issues early and provide options to resolve them. Homesearch is very  easy to get hold of and talk to, no matter where I am in the world! My property is well looked after, regarding tradesmen, replacement of items swiftly etc. with the minimum of fuss.

David Connells, Landlord

From our first viewing right through to the present, Home Search were brilliant. They helped make the whole process quick and stress free and even now we are in and settled, they are still happy to assist us with any queries we may have. We couldn't recommend them highly enough.

Julie Maney

Home Search helped us move into our new flat smoothly and Tim was always happy to provide help to put our nerves at ease. Arranging a viewing was easy and Home Search were happy to open after hours for us to sign the paperwork. They were very helpful and often would offer to help! Having moved in we received a lovely card and they have always been swift in communicating with Usif we have any questions. Would recommend it.

Will Houghton

Michael and his team were simply amazing!! They helped us to find the perfect house, offering a nice and attentive service from the beginning through to the end. Thank you so much!! 5 stars service. Highly recommended!!!

Giordana Sicali

Very helpful and friendly staff. Tim, Michael and the team Made the whole renting experience easier.

Amol Sinare

I had a very difficult situation as I did not have a guarantor and my dad was earning enough but was not a homeowner. It took a about 3 weeks but Michael sorted it all out in the end and my dad became my guarantor. I got a lovely home and all the staff were very helpful including Paris, Zainab and Tim. Thank you all very much! Would recommend them to anyone

Misti Chakraborty

On behalf of myself, Noa & Niamh, we would like to start off by saying a massive thank you for the amazing service Home Search Ltd provided us with, especially highlighting the work of Clorissa. Within a week we were able to sign, seal and move into the property that we looked at, all down to Clorissa's prompt and effective work ethic, which allowed us a smooth transition from one property to another, without her, this move would not of been possible to have happened within the time stamp that it did. We are very grateful for the work that was done by Home Search Ltd, highly recommend.

Lewis Francis
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