Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, but it can also feel overwhelming. With so many choices, financial considerations, and practical aspects to weigh up, it’s easy to feel daunted. However, with the right approach, you can confidently navigate your journey to homeownership. Here’s your essential guide to property searching and viewing, focusing on new homes
Getting Your Finances in Order
Before diving into your property search, you need a clear understanding of your budget. Start by totalling up your deposit and using an online mortgage calculator to estimate how much you can borrow. If affordability is a concern, explore government-backed schemes like shared ownership, which allows you to buy a portion of a property and rent the rest, reducing the size of your mortgage and deposit.
If you’re confident in your budget, securing a mortgage in principle can put you ahead of the competition, allowing you to make an offer quickly when you find the perfect home.
Defining Your Priorities
With so many properties on the market, it helps to create a priority list. Consider key factors such as:
- Location – Proximity to work, schools, transport links, and amenities.
- Layout & Space – Do you need open-plan living? Extra storage? A home office?
- Energy Efficiency – Almost all new build homes have an EPC rating of A or B, meaning lower energy bills and a more sustainable lifestyle.
- Condition – If you want a hassle-free move with no renovations, a new build home is an excellent choice as it comes with a builder’s warranty and modern finishes.
Finding Your Dream Home
Once you’ve outlined your must-haves, start your search using trusted portals like Rightmove, Zoopla, Share to Buy, On The Market or New Homes for Sale. You can set up alerts so you’re notified when a property that matches your criteria comes on the market. If you’re considering a new build development, it’s worth speaking to the selling agent directly, as they’ll have insight into upcoming releases and any available incentives.
The Viewing Process
Viewing properties is one of the most exciting parts of the journey! However, it’s important to look beyond aesthetics and assess each home carefully. Here are some top tips:
- Visit at different times of the day to check for natural light, traffic noise, and neighbourhood activity.
- Look at the structure and finishes to check for cracks, damp spots, and build quality.
- Test everything – Turn on taps, flush toilets, check water pressure, and try light switches.
- Consider future costs – Factor in maintenance, service charges (for flats), and running costs.
For new homes, ask about warranties, snagging lists, and any available upgrades. Many developers offer incentives such as contributions to legal fees or fitted appliances, so don’t be afraid to negotiate.
Making the Decision
Choosing a home is both a practical and emotional decision. While it’s essential to tick off your logical checklist, trust your instincts too. If you love a property but have doubts, revisit it, take a step back, and consider whether it truly fits your lifestyle and long-term plans.
Final Steps
Once you’ve found the right home, ensure all legal checks are in place. Work with a solicitor to verify title deeds, mortgages, and contracts, particularly if buying a new-build home where you’ll be dealing with a developer’s contract. Be aware of additional costs such as legal fees, mortgage arrangement charges, and home insurance.
Enjoy the Journey
Buying your first home is a huge achievement, and while it can feel like a rollercoaster, it’s a rewarding experience. By staying informed, setting clear priorities, and considering new build options for a stress-free move, you’ll soon be settling into a home that’s truly yours. Happy house hunting!
For exclusive new-build homes, visit lsllandandnewhomes.co.uk
First Time Buyer is an exciting bi-monthly glossy which takes a stylish and comprehensive look at all the options available, setting them out in an entertaining and informative way, and helping potential customers navigate their way through what is often a daunting and complex process. We dispel the myths, reinforce the facts and arm the reader with the tools necessary to make their homeownership dreams a reality.
