Posted: Monday, June 13, 2022

Buying a Home – Top Five Things No One Tells You

Buying a new home is an exciting time, and though there are many resources out there to help you prepare for it, there are some things that people just don’t tell you. To help you out, here are five things you should know when searching for your dream home:

Spend some time in the area

When choosing a new home, you’ll want to spend some time getting to know the local area to ensure it’s right for you. Good schools, nearby shops and transport links are common on a buyer’s checklist, but you should also take into account how the area changes during the day - how busy are the roads in the morning? Is the nightlife disruptive on the weekend?

It’s also a good idea to check the planning registry for any building projects that may be taking place nearby – a new development could block a nice view from your window, and persistent building noise could ruin the peace and quiet you’re after.

Get a head start on your mortgage

You don’t have to wait till you’ve made an offer to start securing a mortgage. Getting a pre-approved mortgage will give you a clear idea of your budget, and help to speed up the process once you’ve found your dream home.

Not only that, but it can come in handy when submitting an offer. A pre-approved mortgage shows a seller you’re serious about buying their home and can give you the edge against potential buyers without one.

Plan for the new look

Choosing how to decorate your new home is an exciting decision, and it’s never too early to start planning how this will be done. If new carpets or a fresh coat of paint are on the agenda, look in DIY stores for swatches and samples in advance – bringing these with you to viewings is a great way to see how rooms would look in the colours and styles that you prefer.   

If your plans require contractors, it’s a good idea to start looking at quotes before you agree a sale. Ensuring desired work is both possible and within your budget is essential to giving you peace of mind once you’re all moved in, and brings you one step closer to making your new house into a home.

Budget for solicitors’ fees

Once you have had your offer accepted you will need to employ a conveyancing solicitor to deal with the paperwork and legal aspects of the transaction.

It’s important to ask for a full fee breakdown, as prices and services can vary between practices. All processes should be accounted for, including bank money transfer fees, stamp duty forms, and other legal paperwork. These fees should be included as part of your overall budget, and are just as essential as the cost of your new home.

Manage your expectations

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, you don’t secure the home you’ve been trying for. You may find you’ve been outbid, or a seller may opt for a cash buyer if they’re looking to avoid a chain. These bumps in the road can be frustrating, but they are by no means an indication that your dream home is out of reach. Perseverance is key, and by keeping an open mind and continuing with your search, you will get there eventually. Keep in contact with local agents to make sure you’re seeing every property suited to your needs, and don’t hesitate to chase up any communications along the way.

 

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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

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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.

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