Buying your first home is exciting, but for first-time buyers, it can also feel daunting. From mortgages to legal paperwork, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
At PLS Solicitors, we specialise in making the journey stress-free. Here’s your clear guide to buying your first home and how we can support you every step of the way.
Step 1: Consider Your Finances
Before looking at properties, take time to understand your financial position:
- Deposit: Save at least 5–10%. If any of your deposit is gifted, let your lender know early.
- Mortgage advice: Speak to a mortgage advisor to get a mortgage in principle.
- Budget: Factor in costs like legal fees, stamp duty, surveys, and moving expenses.
Tip: Preparing your finances in advance helps avoid delays later.
Step 2: Finding Your First Property
Once your budget is set, you can start house-hunting:
- Browse property websites
- Register with estate agents
- View potential homes
When you’ve found “the one,” you’re ready to make an offer.
Step 3: Making an Offer
When you’re ready, put in your offer. If it’s accepted, the legal process begins and expert support is key to keeping everything on track.”
Step 4: Conveyancing & Legal Support
At this stage, your solicitor will handle the legal process. At PLS Solicitors, we:
- Review contracts and raise enquiries
- Apply for property searches
- Provide you with a Report on the property
- Guide you through signing legal documents
Meanwhile, your mortgage lender will issue their valuation and final offer.
Step 5: Exchange of Contracts
When everything checks out, we:
- Request your deposit
- Exchange contracts with the seller’s solicitor
This is when your purchase becomes legally binding. Exchange can sometimes take time, especially in a long chain, but we keep you updated throughout.
Step 6: Completion
Completion is the exciting final step. On the agreed day:
- We transfer funds to the seller’s solicitor
- You collect your keys
- You officially become a homeowner!
What Costs Should First-Time Buyers Expect?
In addition to your deposit and mortgage, budget for:
- Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) (with relief available for many first-time buyers)
- Search costs and land registry fees
- Mortgage product/valuation fees
- Legal fees
Why First-Time Buyers Choose PLS Solicitors
We know buying your first home can feel overwhelming. That’s why we provide:
- Transparent, expert advice
- Efficient conveyancing services
- A user-friendly PLS Portal app for 24/7 case tracking
- A supportive team to guide you at every step
Ready to Buy Your First Home?
With the right support, buying your first property doesn’t have to be stressful.
Contact PLS Solicitors today for expert conveyancing support and make your first home purchase simple and stress-free.
