Buying a home

Buying a new home can be a stressful and confusing process. It's vital that you understand the basics before moving into the property market.

When you start looking for a home to buy there are plenty of places to look:

  • your local estate agents
  • the internet. Search for estate agents and new housing developments
  • the local newspaper

Council Tax

One thing to consider when moving home is the Council Tax band that your new property will be in. Check which band your house is in or find out the current Council Tax rates for each band.

Mortgages

Many mortgage providers want your business. Shop around to find a mortgage that best suits your circumstances. Do not take the first offer.

Help to get a mortgage

If you want to buy a property, but are having difficulty accessing the mortgage, you may be able to get help from the government's affordable home ownership schemes.

Please note that we do not operate the Home Move Purchase Grant scheme at present.

There are a number of hidden charges to consider when moving house:

  • stamp duty
  • arrangement fees
  • valuation fees
  • legal fees

It's important to get legal advice when buying or selling a home.

Your solicitor will do a number of searches in relation to the house that you're buying. This includes making sure that the people selling the house actually own it. They will also arrange the transfer of deeds and the signing of contracts.