Help With Buying

Buying a home is one of the biggest commitments you’ll ever make, so it’s important to ensure everything is done correctly and smoothly. At ClaxtonBird, we strive to deliver a top-class service that we believe is second to none. When buying a new home, we offer help and assistance throughout the process, aiming to provide the service every homebuyer desires.

Feel free to call us to discuss your requirements—below are some basic tips to help you prepare for buying your new home. Rest assured, we’re always here to help and just a phone call away.

When purchasing a property, it's crucial to get your finances in order and account for all the additional costs beyond the property price itself. These extra expenses can add up quickly, so being prepared is essential to avoid surprises along the way.
First, consider the mortgage arrangement fee, which may be charged by the lender for setting up your mortgage. You may also need to pay for the lender's valuation fee, which ensures the property is worth the amount you're borrowing.
You'll also need to factor in conveyancing costs, which cover the legal work involved in transferring ownership. Additionally, there's the Land Registry fee for registering the property in your name. Depending on the condition of the property, a survey might be required, which will assess its condition and identify any potential issues.
Don’t forget to account for stamp duty land tax, which is a government tax applied to property transactions. Removals can also be a significant cost, depending on the size and distance of your move. It’s wise to set aside a contingency fund to cover unexpected expenses that might arise during the process.
Finally, be sure to arrange building and contents insurance to protect your new home and belongings from damage or theft. By budgeting for all of these costs upfront, you can ensure a smoother and more financially manageable property purchase.

2. Mortgage Advice

Securing expert mortgage advice is crucial when purchasing a property. At ClaxtonBird, we partner with NBS Mortgage Solutions, who offer tailored advice to help you navigate your options and ensure you get the best deal for your situation.
NBS will start by assessing your affordability, taking into account your income, expenses, and financial commitments to determine how much you can borrow. This ensures you can comfortably manage your mortgage without overstretching your budget. They also have access to a wide range of mortgage products, including exclusive deals, and will guide you toward the best option, whether you’re a first-time buyer or remortgaging.
Beyond finding the right deal, NBS will explain the associated costs, such as arrangement fees and interest rates, and assist with the application process, ensuring everything runs smoothly. Their expert advice helps you make informed decisions that align with your financial goals, both now and in the future.
In short, working with NBS Mortgage Solutions ensures that you secure the most suitable mortgage and avoid any costly mistakes along the way.

When searching for a property, it’s important to ask the right questions to ensure it meets your needs and expectations. Don’t hesitate to gather as much information as possible about the property and its surroundings.
Start by asking about local transport links to make sure you can easily commute to work or travel around the area. Additionally, you might want to know how far the local parks are, especially if outdoor space is important to you. It’s also helpful to ask about the location of nearest shops to ensure convenience for your everyday needs.
Understanding the property’s history is crucial, so inquire about when the property was last sold to get a sense of its market value and trends. Knowing the council tax band is essential to estimate ongoing expenses, while asking about double glazing, modern insulation, or central heating will give you insight into the property’s energy efficiency and comfort.
If you’re considering a leasehold property, it’s important to ask how long is left on the lease, as shorter leases can impact financing options and future resale value. Finally, if applicable, be sure to ask about any service charges or ground rentthat may apply, as these can add significant ongoing costs to your budget.
By asking these questions, you’ll be better equipped to make an informed decision when purchasing your new home.

4. Offers

Don’t delay in making an offer. Be prepared for the possibility of your first offer being rejected, property buying is all about negotiation.
When submitting an offer, you will typically be asked how you intend to finance the purchase. You'll likely need to provide proof of cash or deposit and/or mortgage agreements, if applicable, to support the credibility of your offer. If you are selling a property, the agent will also want to verify the chain on your sale.

5. Solicitors

Getting a good and efficient solicitor is essential to ensure the sale process runs smoothly from start to finish. A solicitor will handle all the legal aspects of the transaction, ensuring that everything is in order and that potential issues are addressed promptly. It’s important to stay in regular contact with your agents and solicitors to receive continuous updates and guidance throughout the entire process.
Choosing a local solicitor can be particularly beneficial, as they are familiar with the area and any specific local regulations or requirements. They are also often more accessible for in-person meetings and quicker communication, helping to avoid any unnecessary delays.
We can recommend a trusted conveyancer and provide you with a quote. They have excellent communication and work hand in hand with our after-sale team to ensure everything goes smoothly. By choosing a conveyancer we trust, you can feel confident that your legal process will be handled efficiently and professionally.