Things to Consider Before Buying Your Property

Before you buy your home, you should take time to think about if it is the right choice for you.

Buying your home is one of the biggest financial decisions you will make. You will be responsible for all the costs in maintaining it. 

If you buy a flat and become a leaseholder, you will have to pay service charges each year. You will also have to pay for any major repairs or improvements.

 

We recommend you speak to a financial advisor who is regulated by the Financial Services Authority. They will help you to decide if buying a home is something you can afford and how much you will need to budget each month. 

 

Other costs involved when buying your home

Legal fees

You should employ a solicitor or a licensed conveyancer to look after the legal side of buying your home. 

You should ask how much they will charge for doing your legal work, and obtain a few quotes, before going ahead. 

Survey fees

It is your responsibility to have a survey carried out.

Stamp duty

You may have to pay stamp duty, if your home is going to cost over £125,000.

Stamp Duty Calculator

Valuation fees

Your mortgage company will want to see a report to confirm the value of the property.  This is to make sure it is suitable for the money you are borrowing. 

Land registry fees

When your buy your home, you must pay the land registry to register you as the new owner.

Searches

There are various searches that you will need to have carried out on your home. Your solicitor will inform you which searches will be needed and any costs.