At arins, we advise you to place yourself in the strongest possible buying position. The best way to achieve this is to qualify yourself for a mortgage before you begin your search for a property. As a result, you will be better informed as to which type of property meets your own budget. If you are not dependent on selling a property in order to purchase your next one, make sure the estate agent is aware of this, as this will attract you to a homeowner who requires a quick, hassle free sale.

Arrange viewings straight away

If you like a house, don’t be frightened to ask questions. Homeowners are better placed than agents to answer some of these – for example, only the owner can truthfully tell you what the neighbours are like. Here are some pointers on useful questions whilst viewing a prospective purchase.

Remember that as an agent, it is our duty to answer any questions honestly and accurately.

If these questions cannot be answered at the time of viewing, we shall investigate and reply to any unresolved queries.

		Why is the owner selling?
		How long has the property been on the market?
		Has there been a survey?
		Do you know of any structural problems?
		What work has been done to the house? When? Do you have guarantees/receipts?
		If there has been structural work, did they need/obtain Building Regulations Consent?
		Particularly if they extended, did they check whether planning consent was needed and did they check whether they might have breached any covenants by extending?
		What is being left – carpets/curtains/kitchen equipment etc?
		When will the property be vacant? Has the owner found somewhere to move to?
		What are the neighbours like?
		Will they consider an offer?
		What is the Council Tax band?
		What are the running costs?

Location, location, location – research the local schools, shops, parking, transport and neighbours to get a good feel of what it will be like to live there.

Making an Offer

Any offer that we receive shall be conveyed by our staff to the vendor at the earliest possible convenience. It is important that you have the following information at the ready for us to completely qualify your offer on behalf of our vendor:

		The amount you are willing to offer
		Your purchasing position (are you a first time buyer, do you have a property to sell? etc)
		Details of your Mortgage provider
		Percentage of mortgage/ deposit
		Any other inhibiting timescale factors

Potential costs involved when buying:

		Solicitors
		Mortgage arrangement fees
		Survey
		Removal company
		Stamp duty:
		Up to £125,000 nil £125,000 to £250,000 1% over £250,000 3% over £500,000 4% over £1,000,000 5%