Jack A’Court reflects on his experience buying his first home, offering advice and guidance to others taking their first steps on the property ladder.
Looking back on my first-time buyer mortgage application, there are a number of things I wish I had known going into the purchase process. From finding the property to completing on our mortgage, the whole experience can feel lengthy and daunting. So, to help other first-time buyers looking to get on the property ladder or taking their first steps in the process, I’ve written out some advice and what I wish I’d known.
What advice would you give to other first-time buyers?
Here are my three pieces of advice for first-time buyers:
- Speak to an experienced mortgage broker. Using a broker is the best way to ensure that you are getting the best mortgage deal possible! You are about to undertake what’s likely to be the biggest transaction of your life so far, so you want someone who is going to work their hardest for you and get the best deal available to you on the market.
- Expect the unexpected, particularly when it comes to the legal side of things. Just as you think you are getting close, a search may be required, or a document needs signing, which can slow everything back down. Remember, your solicitors are acting on behalf of you and are trying to help you. It can sometimes be frustrating, but get a good solicitor who will help you as best as possible.
- Ensure you get a full structural report done on the house. If you are anything like me, you wouldn’t be able to see faults with walls, brickwork, or roof. You want to make sure that you have a full understanding of what you are walking into.
What (if anything) did you learn from the process that you didn’t know before?
Be prepared for things to not go as planned! You and every other first-time buyer will build up a picture in their head of how the whole process will go (usually hoping for the best-case scenario). Having a clear head and an open mind is better because it will prepare you for any bumps in the road. Our brokers will do all they can to ensure you have a seamless and stress-free process, but there are a number of factors that no one can plan for!
Is there anything that you’d do differently?
No, we wouldn’t do anything differently. We walked away with the best deal possible for us on the house we had our hearts set on.
Was there anything that surprised you?
Other than how photos can make some houses look a lot better online than they do during a viewing, not a lot. Working within the industry, I’m lucky enough to have a good understanding of the process from start to finish. Again, I can’t stress enough how helpful it can be to have a broker on your side helping progress your application and giving you the support you need as a first-time buyer.
How can you navigate the legal side of things?
I would always say to my clients that if they have any queries about why things are being asked, give me a call. I’m happy to explain or even ask the solicitor to give us a better understanding of where the case is currently at.
Your next steps
To read my diary of my purchase process, read my blog here.
If you’re hoping to get started as a first-time buyer, please do get in touch below. Our homebuyer team are more than happy to answer any questions you may have, even if you’re not quite ready to get started just yet.
