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How to get on the property ladder

Posted on: Friday, September 1, 2023

Homeownership is a dream shared by many, but for most first-time buyers, getting on the property ladder is no simple feat. If you’re among the ever-growing demographic of aspiring homeowners, use these top tips to help you take that all-important first step onto the property ladder.  

Saving for a deposit 

Saving up a large deposit is often the most challenging aspect of buying a property. It’s advisable to save at least 5-20% of the property's value as a deposit, as this will help you secure a mortgage with better interest rates. Set monthly savings goals and establish a realistic timeline to keep yourself motivated and on track. If you opened up a Help-to-Buy ISA, don’t forget to deposit a maximum of £200 a month, as accidentally missing a month will ultimately set you back. 

Assessing your financial situation 

Before you can get started on home hunting, it's essential to evaluate your financial standing. Start by assessing your income, savings, and any outstanding debts. Consider how much you can comfortably afford to spend on mortgage repayments, and don’t forget to account for additional expenses such as council tax, insurance, and maintenance costs. Budgeting realistically will provide you with a solid foundation for the rest of the process, and a good idea of what kind of home you should be searching for.

Understand your mortgage options 

A mortgage is likely to be the most significant financial commitment you make in your lifetime, so you will need to understand your options thoroughly. You could conduct your own research into various mortgage lenders and compare their interest rates, terms, and conditions, but it’s usually worthwhile to seek professional advice from a mortgage broker who can guide you through the process, help you find the most suitable mortgage for your circumstances, and assist with the application process.  

Explore government schemes 

The UK’s government offers several schemes to support first-time buyers in their quest for homeownership. Familiarise yourself with these schemes, such as Help to Buy, the Lifetime ISA, Shared Ownership, and Right to Buy, to determine if you meet the eligibility criteria and if they align with your goals. These schemes can provide financial assistance, reduce deposit requirements, or make monthly repayments more affordable.

Seek professional guidance 

Navigating the property market can be complex, especially for first-time buyers. Engaging the services of a qualified solicitor or conveyancer is crucial to ensure a smooth and legally compliant purchase process. They will handle the legal aspects, including property searches, contract reviews, and completion procedures, giving you peace of mind throughout the transaction. 

Check out the local property market

Making informed decisions is important, which is why it’s advisable to delve into a little research on your local area’s property market. By using property search portals, you can monitor house prices, housing trends, and location-specific factors that may affect your investment. Beyond this, you should attend plenty of property viewings, ask questions, and consider seeking advice from local estate agents or property experts who can provide invaluable insight.

Patience and flexibility 

Buying a property is a significant life event, and it's essential to remain patient and flexible throughout the process. Be prepared for delays, setbacks, or unexpected changes. Stay positive, persevere, and don't rush into any decision you may later regret. The right property will come along if you stay focused on your goals and maintain a proactive approach. 

Contact us 

Are you itching to get moving into your first home? Get in touch with your local Guild Member to start your search.

What Our
Clients Say

"

I would highly recommend Hardings. Their knowledge of the local area is outstanding, and they give honest and reliable advice. They have always been my partner of choice when buying and selling.

Rhiannon Prothero

"

Have used Hardings for many year on both personal and commercial property deals. Have always found them to be transparent, honest, authentic, and a pleasure to work with. Will continue to use in the future.

TB

"

I would highly recommend Hardings Estate Agents. They have excellent knowledge of Windsor and the surrounding areas, and are extremely professional, responsive and courteous. I would not hesitate to using them again the future. I recently dealt with Milica who was instrumental in securing us our new home in Windsor as well as the sale of our existing property. She was a fab negotiator and a real pleasure to work with from beginning to end. Thank you!

Jonathon Beresford

"

Hardings of Windsor managed our purchase with complete professionalism and went over and above in my opinion to manage the transaction and chain, resulting in a really smooth purchase. Milica at Hardings constantly provided timely updates and managed respective solicitors and the chain effectively, always responding quickly to queries. The whole transaction would not have happened without Milicas' focus on making all parties comfortable and satisfying all queries, not only professional but a delightful and welcoming personal approach that was a constant throughout. Thanks Hardings! Thanks Milica!

Stuart Blatch

"

I would recommend using Hardings estate agents when buying or selling your property. Dominic (Scully) was always available, helpful and genuinely interested in my purchase and always calm and compassionate. If I ever move again my first choice will be Hardings.

Cath Powell

"

Dom and the team at Hardings were so helpful and efficient when I purchased my flat - friendly and professional service and kept us up-to-date the whole way through the process. It was my first time buying and so was very nervous but they helped me feel at ease.

Freppell

"

We bought and sold through Hardings and can't recommend their professional service enough. The whole Team are really lovely, we were kept informed throughout the process and never had to chase anything.

Natalie Quint

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I used Hardings when I bought my property as well as when I sold it and the service has been fantastic both times. I very much recommend Hardings!

Therese Jouini

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We recently purchased our new home with Hardings Estate Agents. The whole team there were very helpful and flexible with us, arranging viewings quickly on the same day. They were always quick to respond and if ever our point of contact was not there, the service did not change as they work well together as a team. We received a personalised service, which allowed the sale to proceed quickly. Thank you all and we recommend Hardings Estate Agents without hesitation.

Mike B

"

What a pleasure it was to deal with Milica from Hardings. She sourced the perfect property for me and my family (while we were still abroad) and worked endlessly to put the deal together. I would give more than 5 stars if at all possible!

C D

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Fantastic customer service and made what could have been stressful a total breeze. Dominic and Louisa were brilliant in helping me and my parents buy and sell our houses - reliable, helpful and thoughtful. Thank you!

Eloise Harris

"

Thank you, Dominic and Louisa - having not moved for over 30 years you helped me all the way, step by step. You were always polite, communicative, reassuring and very supportive. Would recommend Hardings wholeheartedly.

Anna Bowen
How Much is Your Property Worth?

How Much is Your Property Worth?

A senior member of our sales team will visit your property to discuss current market trends and how your home; based on size, condition and location should be pitched to achieve the best possible price and buyer. Coupled with an excellent understanding of the local market we do a detailed analysis of what else has sold and what is coming onto the market so we can give you the best chance to capitalise on your biggest asset.

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