Put bluntly, it depends on what you can afford.

That’s why we start with a review of your current finances, and we talk you through the various costs of buying a property. Before you start browsing the property pages, you need to know your budget, including how much deposit you should have available.

We will let you know what documentation is required.

A mortgage in principle is not a guarantee, but it does show that a lender is willing in principle to financially support your property purchase.

When you start viewing properties, this makes you look like a serious buyer.

Know what you’re looking for (including your must-haves, nice-to-haves, and deal-breakers).

Then you need to know where to look, including websites, estate agents, property developers, and auctions.

As soon as you’ve found your perfect place, put in an offer and wait for it to be accepted. Contact us to let us know and we’ll start to get the wheels in motion for you.

You’ll need a solicitor to take care of the legal work involved in purchasing a property.

1) They understand the property sale and purchase process
2) They handle the various pre-purchase searches so that there are no surprises
3) They take care of the contracts
4) They will register the property in your name

Now it’s time to get back in touch with your mortgage broker and make a detailed mortgage application.

You won’t necessarily apply to the lender you have the agreement in principle with, your adviser will assess the most suitable options available at the time of application.

As part of the application process, the mortgage lender will carry out an independent valuation and survey of the property.

The minimum requirement is a ‘basic’ or ‘mortgage’ survey which is a relatively simple price appraisal, but you have the option to go for a more detailed survey that examines the building’s structure and flags up any possible long-term issues.

Following the lender’s credit check, an examination of your financial details, and valuation of the property – and assuming everything is okay in that it falls within their lending terms and conditions – they will offer you a mortgage.

Exchanging contracts usually takes place 7-28 days before the date of completion (when the property becomes yours!) and involves the lawyers on both sides confirming that both seller and buyer are ready to proceed (for you as a buyer, that usually means the mortgage offer has been issued, having a signed contract, transferred deposit funds and a buildings insurance policy is in place.

Once contracts have exchanged and completion has taken place, you’ll be given the keys and can move in when you want – it’s yours now!