Buying and selling

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Buying a house

Once you have decided to buy a house, think carefully about the type of property you want to live in. Would you be happy living in a flat or in a house with a garden? Also think about where you want to live. Would you like to live near your work or would you be happier living closer to your family and friends? Take into consideration factors like access to shops, leisure activities, schools, hospitals and public transport. You should also consider nuisance factors such as flight paths, closeness to railway lines and busy roads.

Property is advertised through a variety of sources such as estate agents and local newspapers.

Once you have found a property, you should appoint a lawyer to carry out the conveyancing and to advise you on how to go about buying a house. Before making an offer you should arrange a mortgage in principle through a mortgage promise from a bank or building society. You will also need to arrange for a survey of the property, you can find a surveyor using the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors website. Once you have selected a particular property, you will have to make an offer through your lawyer on your behalf to the seller's lawyer. If your offer is accepted, and missives are concluded you are legally bound to buy the property.

Property Enquiry Certificates can be collected from the council, details are available using the link in the Related Content menu.

You might also find it useful to go to the Council housing section on the left to find out more about applying for a Council house.

Selling a house

You can sell your house yourself, for example, through an advert in a local newspaper, or by using an estate agent, who will charge a fee for this service.

Your ability to sell your house may be enhanced by following a number of basic tips:

• First impressions count - ensure your home is neat and tidy, and clear of clutter and personal belongings, when a potential buyer visits.
• Aroma - Some top aroma tips are to put a vanilla pod in the oven or grill a coffee bean.
• Check taps and lights are working correctly.
• Ensure your house is not crowded when a potential buyer visits - this will prevent them rushing through your home.
• Try to keep pets out of the way.