Here is our simple step by step guide to the home buying process for first time buyers, and do remember that the team at Independent Mortgage Solutions is always on hand to help!
1. Visit Independent Mortgage Solutions
For a free initial consultation about how much you can borrow, how to raise a deposit and for invaluable knowledge about the local area and housing market.
2. Start saving
The more deposit you have, the better the interest rate will be. You also need to consider the costs of your move.
Tip: Ask us for a full breakdown of the costs involved
3. Get a Decision in Principle [DIP]
We can apply to a mortgage lender for a DIP on your behalf – this will show estate agents and vendors that you are serious about buying a home, and you will have a head start when applying for a mortgage later.
4. Go house hunting
The fun bit! Do lots of grass roots research both online and in person, and make detailed notes about all the properties you visit.
Tip: Ask us for our guide to viewings.
5. Make an offer
When you’ve found your dream home, make an offer via the estate agent – when its been accepted, you can start the legal conveyancing process and apply for a mortgage.
Tip: You can ask us for guidance with this.
6. Appoint a solicitor
The legal and administrative work for transferring property is called ‘conveyancing’. At this stage, you will need to appoint a solicitor to handle the purchase of your new home. We can help you to get quotes for this service.
7. Apply for a mortgage
Arrange an appointment with us to go through your mortgage options. We will recommend a lender, research the best product and rate for you, and make an application on your behalf.
Tip: We will ensure that your application is always presented in the right way.
8. Survey & valuation
The lender we have applied to will arrange a valuation of the property. If you want to appoint a surveyor to inspect the property, this is also the time to do it.
Tip: Ask us for a guide to surveys.
9. Mortgage offer
Following the valuation and underwriting, your lender will issue a formal mortgage offer detailing all the terms and conditions for you to consider – do ask us about any questions you may have.
10. Mortgage protection
Your mortgage is a large financial commitment and you need to consider how you could manage your mortgage repayments should the worst happen. We can explain what types of cover you may need, and set this up so that it starts at the same time as your new mortgage.
Tip: Not all advisers are independent, but we are!
11. Exchanging contracts
You’re almost there – when solicitors exchange contracts, you are now legally bound to buy your new home. Buildings and contents cover should also start now.
Tip: You will need to pay your deposit to the solicitor at this stage.
12. Complete – and move in!
On completion day, your new property is officially transferred to you. The mortgage takes effect, and you are able to move in and start creating a home.
Tip: Your new lender will write to you to confirm when your first payment will be taken.
YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE
Independent Mortgage Solutions Ltd is an appointed representative of PRIMIS Mortgage Network, a trading style of Personal Touch Financial Services Ltd which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
Independent Mortgage Solutions Ltd, 88 High Street, Thame, OX9 3EH