It's a huge step to buy a property and with so much excitement and emotion attached to it, the slightest problem can create unnecessary worry.

Whether a seasoned homeowner, a property investor or someone new to home ownership, when purchasing through Daniel & Hulme Estate Agents we can guide you through the sometimes complicated process and keep your dream alive.

Step 1: Get a mortgage

Sometimes referred to as a 'mortgage agreement in principle', it is an important first step in understanding the value of any lending through a bank as this will influence the offer value of the property you wish to buy.

We work with a variety of service providers, so if you'd like some mortgage advice then let us know and we can put you in touch with people who can help.

Step 2: Register interest with Estate Agents

You can do this online, via websites, property portals, over the phone or in person for any Estate Agent with a branch.

A good place to start would be to speak to our friendly team and we can get an understanding of your requirements and either find you a property that matches your criteria or arrange for you to be kept up to date on any new properties coming to market. We'd also recommend using My Place by On The Market, the best way to tailor your property search across all agents using the portal - watch the video here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZuDy3cykEes

Once we have a clear understanding of your property requirements, we can look for any suitable properties which match your criteria and then keep you up to date with new properties coming onto the market.

Step 3: View properties

Once you have found a property the next step is to arrange a viewing. At Daniel & Hulme we we will work with you where possible, to find a suitable time for you.

We will then ask for feedback from you in order to understand what you liked, disliked and gauge your interest. This helps us in ensuring that we can build the best viewing experience for you.

Step 4: Make an offer

Fallen in love?

At this point you should consider making an offer. Speak to the agent and they will handle negotiations between you and the Vendor on price and any terms that you or they may have.

Offers can only be put forward if you are in a position to buy, for example;

• Mortgage - A mortgage in principal from a lender
• House on the market - Your house is on the market or sold, the proceeds of which will go towards the purchase
• Cash Offer - Money in the bank that can be used to fund the entire purchase

Step 5: Offer accepted

The excitement starts!

Once your offer is accepted you will need to instruct a solicitor. We would always recommend using a solicitor who knows the area and specialises in something called conveyancing - the transfer of the legal title of real property from one individual to another.

If purchasing through Daniel & Hulme Estate Agents, we can recommend a number of excellent local solicitors who can support you.

Once your agent is aware of your solicitors details, a memorandum of sale is created and sent to all parties. At this point, there are no legal obligations on either side until contracts are signed.

We now enter the longer and more complicated part of the buying process...

Step 6: Conveyancing

Your solicitor will raise any enquiries on receipt of draft contracts from the seller solicitor and request local searches and potential date for agreement of the contract.

Step 7: Survey

A survey gives advice on the condition and value of the property and is usually requested by the mortgage lender in order to ensure that borrowing can be approved - it is an essential step in the process.

Surveys are always recommended for those purchasing with cash as it will provide valuable insight into the condition and prepare you for any work you may have to do.

Should you need a surveyor, as with other services we can make recommendation.

Step 8: Mortgage Offer

Almost there!

Once the survey report is received, your mortgage provider will issue a formal mortgage offer to you and your solicitor. Reading and understanding this is as important as prompt sign and return.

Step 9: Exchange of contracts

You've made it!

When all enquiries raised between solicitors have been completed, contracts are created and issued to be signed by all parties.

At this point arrangements are made for the payment of deposit and a date confirmed for the handover of the keys.

Step 10: Completion

You made it!

Monies are transferred between solicitors, keys are released and you are now the legal owner of your new home - Congratulations!