Our guide to buying a home
Step 1: Let's get to know you
The first step in your property buying journey is all about you. We want to understand not just your basic needs like the number of bedrooms or a garden, but also your lifestyle. Are you a budding chef looking for a spacious kitchen? Do you need a quiet corner to work from home? Do you have children that need to be near a school? By getting to know you, we can help find properties that aren't just houses, but feel like home from the moment you step in.
Step 2: Crunching the numbers
Before we start the property hunt, let's talk about your budget. It's not just about the price of the house, but also additional costs like stamp duty, survey fees, and legal costs. It's a good idea to chat with a mortgage advisor at this stage. They can help you understand how much you might be able to borrow and even get a "Decision in Principle" from a lender. This is a statement that gives an estimate of what you could borrow, which can be really helpful to us and the property seller. And don't forget about the deposit - the more you can put down, the better the mortgage rate you're likely to get.
Step 3: The hunt begins
Now, the real fun begins - the property search! At Helmores, we cover all towns and villages in the mid Devon area, and sometimes even further afield. We'll present you with a selection of properties that match your criteria. Whether you're looking for a character-filled Devon cottage or a sleek new build, we're here to help you find your perfect match.
Step 4: Viewing properties
Viewing properties is more than just a walk-through. It's about imagining your life in the space. Our lovely viewing experts, George W, Fern, and Sharon will carry out all your viewings meaning you don’t have to meet home sellers which can sometimes be a little awkward. They're all about making you feel at home from the moment you step through the door, and they'll never give you a sales pitch. It's all about finding the right property that suits you and your lifestyle.
Step 5: Making an offer
Found a property you love? It's time to make an offer. We'll guide you through this process, providing advice on what might be a suitable offer based on the current market and the property's value. We're here to help you secure your dream home!
Step 6: Navigating the sales process
After your offer is accepted, our dedicated sales progressors step in. She’ll handle the complex post-sales process, liaising with solicitors, surveyors, and other estate agents in the chain to ensure everything runs smoothly. This means you can focus on planning your move rather than worrying about the nitty-gritty of the sale. Whilst being on hand to answer any questions or concerns you may have.
Step 7: Exchange and completion
The final stages of the buying process are the exchange of contracts and completion. At this point, the sale becomes legally binding. We'll be there to guide you through these final steps, ensuring everything goes as smoothly as possible.
Step 8: Welcome home
Once the sale is complete, it's time to move into your new home! We'll be there to hand over the keys and welcome you to your new property.
At Helmores, our work doesn't end when the sale is complete. We're about creating lifelong relationships, becoming your agent of choice for all things property-related. Whether you need advice on property values, local market trends, or just want to chat about your next move, we're here for you. Choose Helmores, and experience the difference of working with a dedicated, experienced, and passionate team that's with you for life.