Moving House is often a stressful event and it can be especially daunting for first-time buyers who are unfamiliar with the process. So much time and energy go into finding the right property – something that ticks the all-important boxes of budget, space, and location – that it can be easy to forget this is just the first step on the journey to home ownership. If you are unsure of what happens next, this handy guide tells you everything you need to know.

Moving house – a guide.

Take It Off the Market

Once your offer has been accepted, be sure to tell the agent to take the property off the market. Ideally, you should make clear this is a condition of your offer when you place your bid. Withdrawing the property from the market means there can be no further viewings. And it will be marked as ‘sold subject to contract’ on property websites and in the agent’s window. This is done to reduce the likelihood of counteroffers or gazumping. So not too much stress is allowed in this house move.

Find a Solicitor to Act on Your Behalf – Moving House

Many of us only use a solicitor rarely. And for some people, buying a house is the first time they’ve needed the services of a legal professional. You will need a solicitor who specialises in conveyancing. Ask friends or family who’ve recently bought or sold a property for recommendations or call for quotes – costs can vary wildly. Choosing to pay more for someone who has a good reputation is fine if you can afford it. But buying a house is an expensive time and every penny counts. Your solicitor will advise you on the surveys you need and assist you as you move towards the next steps of exchange (where deposits are paid and the commitment to buy becomes legal) and completion (when the property becomes yours). Soon you’ll be moving into your new house!

Confirm Your Mortgage

You should already have a mortgage agreement in principle agreed. And it is now time to process your application, so you have the funds to make the purchase. Contact the mortgage lender to share the good news that your offer has been accepted and they will assist you with completing the paperwork to proceed (in some cases this can now be done online).

Contact a Removal Company

When you have a date for completion, you can start preparing for the big house move. For first-time buyers, there is less pressure to move on a set day. Unlike when people are selling one property to buy another. And you may have work you want to do in your new home while it is empty, such as renovation or decoration. Decide on the date you want to move and contact a reputable company such as G W Twilley and Son Removals to book a slot. Do this well in advance as companies get booked up, especially on Friday, the most popular day for moving home.

Although it can feel like there’s lots to be done, it will all be worth it once you are moved into your new house. Good luck!

Viewing a house for the first time? Check this easy guide as to what you need to make sure you have it under control! And read this guide about the most affordable cities in Ohio, too.

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