Things to Consider When Buying Your First Home

Purchasing your first home is a major milestone that comes with both excitement and a fair share of challenges. As a symbol of independence and financial stability, it’s important to approach this process with careful planning and consideration. Here are some essential factors to keep in mind when buying your first home:

Budgeting & Affordability

Before you start looking at properties, understand how much you can afford. This means reviewing your finances closely, which includes:

  • Income
  • Current outgoings and expenses
  • Outstanding debt
  • Credit score

Affordability

Before you begin searching for your desired property, you will need to have a clear understanding of your budget to help narrow down your search. This not only avoid wasting time but also unnecessary disappointment!

  • Get a Mortgage in Principle in place before viewing any properties that you are interested in. This can also put you in a more favourable light when it comes to submitting an offer to sellers.
  • Getting an idea of your monthly repayments could influence your decision on what type of property you purchase. For example, if you’re planning on renovating a property, you will need to ensure your monthly mortgage payments are considered alongside planned changes.
 
Take a look at our blog post here on understanding what a Mortgage in Principle is, and how to obtain yours. 

Location, Location, Location

The location of your new home impacts not just your daily life but also the possible resale value.

Consider:

  • Your commute to work
  • Schools or other childcare providers
  • Safety and crime rates
  • Local amenities such as shops, gyms and transport links

In addition, choosing a location that fits your current needs obviously very important but considering potential future circumstances, such as starting a family or changing jobs can be a sensible proactive step.

The Right Type of Home

Size and Layout

Determine what size and layout match your lifestyle. Do you need extra rooms for a home office or guests?

Again, it is sensible to consider both your current needs and how things might change in the future. For example, if you are planning on starting a family, will there be adequate room?

Home Type

Consider all your options:

  • Freehold
  • Leasehold

Each option has its pros and cons, such as maintenance responsibilities and fees. It is worth researching the differences to ensure that all important decision is an informed one.

Additional Costs

When buying any kind of property, there are various other costs which might apply to your circumstances and require consideration aside from the mortgage itself.

  • Solicitors’ fees
  • Moving fees

Make sure you factor these into your budget so you aren’t caught short!

Conclusion

Buying your first home is an exciting journey that requires careful thought and preparation. By considering these factors, you’ll improve your chances of making an informed decision about your first or next property investment.

Get in touch today to discuss your financial circumstances and move one step closer to reaching your property purchasing goals.

YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE.

Approved by The Openwork Partnership on 19.06.24

The Mortgage Society is a trading name of Just Mortgages Direct Limited which is an appointed representative of The Openwork Partnership, a trading style of Openwork Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.