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Finding the right home

When you are considering buying a new home, there are a number of things you may want to look at before making your decision. You may want to find a job in certain area or move to somewhere that has better schools or more green spaces.

Create a Viewing Checklist that examines what kind of home you want or the preferred location.  Do your homework to get an idea of what's available.

Compare prices and get in touch with a few local estate agents, look in local newspapers, drive around the area and search online.

One good property website that many estate agents advertise their properties on is http://www.rightmove.co.uk

When you get to the stage of looking at properties, take someone with you as they may pick up things you miss and you can discuss it with them later on and make sure you have second viewing at a different time on another day.

Here are some key points to consider when buying your new home:

• The plans and room sizes as these may be smaller than a show house
• Research the area
• Availability of a warranty such as National House Building Council Certificate or a Premier Guarantee

Remember that the estate agent acts for the seller and not for you and that a basic mortgage valuation is for the lender’s benefit and is not a full survey of property condition.

It might be worth considering paying for your own survey, but make sure you ask lots of questions, such as:

• What is included in the sale?
• Why are the sellers moving?
• What are the neighbours like?
• Are there any alterations and was planning permission required?
• How old is the boiler and when was it last serviced?
• How much is the council tax and what are the average utility costs?

Consider if there is enough storage, if the garden is too large or too small, whether the property needs updating, if the rooms are big enough for your needs, if there are any damp smells and whether or not the windows and electrics are in good condition.