Getting onto the property ladder is something most people aspire to, and it’s an exciting step to take. Despite all the vagaries of the housing market, home ownership is still a very popular option as well as being an excellent investment. Here we share some tips for making sure you’re in a good place when you want to buy your first home.
Do your mortgage homework
Deals change all the time so keep up to speed with what the lenders are offering. Online comparison sites offer a wealth of information. Decide what kind of mortgage suits you: variable, fixed, tracker, discounted rate; capital and repayment or interest only, offset, guarantor. Using a mortgage broker can be very beneficial, as a good one will have all the latest deals at their fingertips and be able to advise you.
Get your mortgage offer in principal
This shows your vendor or developer that you are a serious purchaser and have funds available. It can be a time-consuming process, so start the application in good time and make sure you have to hand all the information the lender and your solicitor require.
Consider Help to Buy
The Government’s Help to Buy scheme has been running for a number of years, and as from 31st March 2021 the lending criteria are changing. The good news is that from now on it will be exclusively for first time buyers, who can use it to purchase a property up to the value of £437,600 with an equity loan of up to 20% of the cost, so you need only 5% deposit and a mortgage for 75%. At Phase 2 of Britannia Wharf in Woking, selected apartments will be eligible for Help to Buy.
Budgeting
There are many costs to consider besides mortgage repayments. Be sure to add in fees for surveys, solicitors, mortgage lenders and of course your removal costs and ongoing bills. A new property from a reputable developer is likely to include kitchen appliances, flooring, built-in furniture such as wardrobes and of course redecoration and updating won’t be needed. At Britannia Wharf, the specification includes Neff appliances, wardrobes and stunning contemporary bathrooms.
When you’re buying new, go for quality above all
As a first time buyer, you will naturally be budget-conscious; all the more reason to choose the best quality you can afford. At Consero we have built our reputation on creating high-end homes for the very wealthy, but we use that very same level of bespoke quality in our more easily affordable homes too.
Don’t forget Stamp Duty
Alas, the Stamp Duty Holiday ends on 31st March 2021. However, first-time buyers still pay less than buyers who already own a property. For first time buyers, there’s no stamp duty to pay on a property costing less than £300,000. Between £300,000 and £500,000, they pay a reduced rate of 5% on the amount over £300,000. At Britannia Wharf, where 1 bedroom apartments start at £245,000 and 2 bedroom apartments start at £320,000, there are stamp duty savings to be made.
Choose a good solicitor
Solicitor’s fees can be costly, so make sure you are working with one who is experienced in conveyancing and can help things to move smoothly. When you buy a new property,
a developer who places a high value on customer care will also make all the difference. At Consero, we will look after you at every stage with expert advice, attention to detail and continuous communication.
New from Consero for first-time buyers
Britannia Wharf offers apartments with the best of all worlds: a peaceful canal-side setting, Woking town centre within a short stroll, and a 30-minute commute to Waterloo. Phase 1 is 100% sold with Phase 2 now launched.
To find out more about our current development, visit our New Homes page.
