There’s a lot to think about when you’re buying a new house. Not only do you have to find the right property, but you also have to deal with the financial aspects of the purchase, as well as the logistics of moving.
It can be a daunting task, but if you’re prepared and know what to expect, it can be an exciting time.
1. Find the right property
The first step is finding the right property. This can be tricky, especially if you’re not sure what you’re looking for. It’s important to take your time and really think about what you want and need in a home.
Do you want a big house or a small one? A detached property or a terraced house? Something modern or more traditional? Once you’ve decided on your criteria, you can start looking for properties that match.
2. Get your finances in order
The next step is to get your finances in order. If you’re taking out a mortgage, you’ll need to arrange for a loan from a bank or building society. It’s important to shop around and compare interest rates before you make any decisions.
You’ll also need to think about other costs associated with buying a property, such as stamp duty (a tax payable on properties over a certain price) and solicitors’ fees.
3. Make an offer
Once you’ve found a property you like, it’s time to make an offer. This is usually done through a solicitor or conveyancer. They will negotiate with the seller’s agent on your behalf and try to agree on a price.
If your offer is accepted, you’ll need to pay a deposit (usually 10% of the purchase price) and sign a contract. The contract will contain all the details of the sale, including the price, completion date and any special conditions.
4. Arrange a survey
Before you exchange contracts, it’s important to have a survey carried out on the property. This will help you to identify any potential problems that could affect the value of the property or make it difficult to insure.
There are different types of surveys, so make sure you choose the right one for your needs. For example, a mortgage lender will usually require a valuation survey, which is the most basic type of survey.
5. Exchange contracts and pay the deposit
Once you’re happy with the results of the survey, you can go ahead and exchange contracts. But, again, this is a legal agreement between you and the seller, and once it’s signed, you’re both committed to going ahead with the sale.
At this point, you’ll need to pay the deposit (usually 10% of the purchase price). The deposit is held by the seller’s solicitors until completion when it will be transferred to the buyer’s solicitors.
6. Arrange insurance
Once you’ve exchanged contracts, you’ll need to arrange building insurance for your new home. This is to protect you from any damage that could occur before you move in.
You should also consider contents insurance, which will cover your belongings in case they’re damaged or stolen. But, again, make sure you shop around and compare policies to get the best deal.
7. Move in!
Finally, it’s time to move into your new home! Once the sale has been completed and the funds have been transferred, you can start packing up your things and moving them into your new house.
If you’re hiring a removal company, make sure you book them in advance. They’ll be able to help you with the heavy lifting and make sure everything is moved safely and securely.
8. Settle into your new home
After weeks of searching and going through the process of buying a new house, you are finally ready to move in.
Here are some things to keep in mind as you settle into your new home.
1. Inspect your new home from top to bottom
Now that you own the place, it is important to do a thorough inspection of your new home, inside and out. This will help you identify any potential problems that need to be fixed, such as leaks or cracks. It is also a good opportunity to get to know your new home and familiarise yourself with its features. In addition, if you have any questions about how something in your new home works, this is the time to ask.
2. Get utilities set up
Water, electricity, gas, internet, cable/satellite TV, telephone. You will need to contact each utility company and set up an account. This process can usually be done online or over the phone but may require an in-person visit for some services. Make sure to do this as soon as possible so that you have all the essentials when you move in.
3. Forward your mail
Once you have your new address, be sure to contact the post office and have your mail forwarded to your new home. This will ensure that you don’t miss any important bills or letters.
4. Change your address with the DMV
When you move to a new house, you will need to change your address with the Department of Motor Vehicles so that your driver’s licence and vehicle registration reflect your new location. You can usually do this online or by visiting your local DMV office.
5. Set up insurance
Homeowner’s/renter’s, auto, health, life, etc. If you’re moving from one state to another, you may need to get new insurance policies to cover your belongings and activities in your new home. Make sure you shop around for the best rates and coverage for your needs.
6. Update your address with financial institutions
If you have any credit cards, loans, or other accounts, be sure to update your address information with the financial institution so that you can continue to receive statements and make payments without any disruptions.
7. Unpack and arrange your furniture
Once all the utilities are set up and running, you can start unpacking your filter coffee machine and your belongings and arranging your furniture. This is typically one of the most exciting parts of moving into a new home. Start by unpacking the essentials first, such as clothes and bedding. Then, take your time unpacking the rest of your belongings and arranging them the way you want. Take your time and make sure everything is placed where you want it to be.
8. Get to know your new neighbourhood
One of the best things about moving into a new home is exploring your new neighbourhood. Get to know your neighbours and find out what there is to do in the area. You may even want to join a local community group or club. In addition, familiarise yourself with the local schools, hospitals, and other essential services.
9. Have some patience
Moving into a new home can be overwhelming, so it is important to have some patience. Things may not go as planned, and there may be a few bumps along the way. But eventually, you will get settled into your new home, and life will return to normal.
10. Enjoy your new home!
After all the work of buying and moving into a new house, it is important to take some time to enjoy your new home. Host a housewarming party, invite your friends and family over, and make some great memories in your new place.
Now that you have moved into your new home, it is time to sit back and enjoy it. You have put in a lot of work to get to this point, so now is the time to relax and enjoy your new surroundings. Make sure to take some time to explore your new neighbourhood and get to know your neighbours. With a little bit of effort, you will soon feel right at home in your new house.