Buying a property is an exciting time for anyone when it happens but it’s something that you want to consider carefully to make sure that you are making the right choices when it comes to what you need and what you want in a property. Both are important and depending on how long you see yourself living there, your priorities might differ. So here are some things to consider when buying a property.
Have A Mortgage In Principle
This relates to any first time buyers who aren’t aware of the process that buying a house involves. Before you go house hunting, it’s important to get a mortgage in principle. What this does is tells any property seller that you’ve already been pre-approved for a mortgage as long as everything adds up when it comes to credit checks and evidence of income etc. It’s important to do this, otherwise you waste yours and the estate agent’s time. They’ll likely ask you first before even proceeding to show you any properties.
How Much Space Do You Need?
Space is an important factor for anyone and depending on how many are currently in your household, you might want to factor in their needs and perhaps any future additions you have to your family. It’s nothing something you might think about straight away, but it’s worth thinking about this while you’re house hunting. For me and Sam, we bought the flat as a starter home and I knew that we wouldn’t be having children in this property. That’s why the amount of space we got, was the right amount for us at the time and still is. The amount of rooms you need should be clarified to your estate agent who is finding the properties for you. We always wanted a two bed, as my goal was to go self-employed and have my own office. And that’s something I’m now doing (unfortunately amidst a pandemic of all things).
Accessibility Requirements
This isn’t something everyone needs to think about but then again if you have friends who need accessibility requirements to get in and out of a property, then you might want to consider certain things within your home and outside it. You might need to get models for straight stairlifts for any household members who might struggle to get up the stairs. In terms of our accessibility, our door frames are quite wide and we also have a lift in operation, as well as the stairs. Considering we’re on the second floor, we’re reachable.
Consider The Surrounding Area
The surrounding area is just as important as the property itself. You could have a stunning property but if the area around it is dangerous or it simply doesn’t have all the necessities you need, then you could certainly be at a disadvantage. Make sure you’re taking the time to explore the area around the property and try to make a day of it. You can see for yourself, how appropriate it is for you and your household then both in the day and evening. A location can change once it goes dark, so be wary.
Be cautious when buying a property. It’s a big step and one that you shouldn’t take too lightly!
*Disclaimer – This is a collaborative post with Age UK Mobility. All words are my own.
