Here are some useful tips that could save you time and money:

  1. If you are funding the purchase by way of mortgage, get loan approval before you do anything else.
  2. Shop around for a mortgage.  You don’t have to be an existing customer of a Bank or Building Society to get a mortgage with them.
  3. Identify a property that suits you.  Think about what you need in a property and the ideal location for your work and family needs.
  4. Check with the local Planning Office to ensure that no major developments that might affect your enjoyment of the property are planned.
  5. Make sure you have a structural survey and boundary inspection carried out (Your Solicitor should advise you as to when to do this).  NB: This is different to the Valuation survey that the Mortgage Lender will seek.