| bottom-link"> | | | | * Never offer after just one viewing. Two visits |
| Buying your first home can be a difficult time, | | | | minimum is essential, and they should be at different |
| especially in these days of high house prices, and low | | | | times of the day. Some areas that seem safe during |
| job security. But don't despair, have prepared a few | | | | the day turn dodgy at night! |
| top tips to make the process as painless as possible | | | | * Ignore the decoration. Mauve wallpaper can always |
| for you! | | | | be taken down! The important thing is space, and the |
| * Get an agreement in principle from your favorite | | | | layout of the rooms. Try to see this, not the color |
| mortgage company BEFORE you start house hunting. | | | | scheme used by the current occupier. |
| This helps you establish your price range and makes | | | | * ALWAYS get a survey. You won't be economising |
| you a better 'bet' as a buyer in the eyes of any | | | | if you don't. In fact, it could be the most expensive |
| sellers you meet. | | | | 'money saving' you ever make! A good surveyor will |
| * Don't just rely on 'realtors' or 'estate agents'. | | | | spot the things you can't, like damp, sloppy roofwork |
| Nowadays, the best place to start a property search | | | | etc. |
| is the web. You can also check local papers and even | | | | * Ultimately, the old cliche about 'the place feels right' |
| drive around your preferred area looking for private | | | | is true. If you walk in and you don't get that 'wow' |
| sales boards. | | | | feeling, you probably won't enjoy living there. |
| * Make a checklist of teh essentials you MUST have | | | | Remember, as prices are now falling in most parts of |
| in your new home. If you need a garage, saya so. If | | | | the world, it's a buyer's market and you can take |
| outside space is essential, don't go see and house | | | | your time. You can also put in lowball offers at times |
| without it. | | | | like these, and you might be surprised how little |
| * Never go alone - take someone with you even if | | | | negotiation upwards is needed to secure a sale! Good |
| just a friend. Alone, you might miss something. | | | | luck with it, and happy house hunting! |