The buying process

Step 1 - Arrange a mortgage

Ensure that you get your finances in order and know exactly how much you can borrow, with an "in principle" agreement from your lender. Always speak to an independent mortgage adviser to find the best rates (we can help you with this) See preparing to buy for more information.

To speak to our independent mortgager adviser or to arrange a free meeting call our office on 01702 462 455.

Step 2 - Register with Blackshaws

As a buyer, by registering directly with us you put yourself at an advantage in terms to access to new properties before they go on the market. Watch our video for more information.

We are open 7 days a week until 9pm so call and register today!

Step 3 - Finding the right property

Weigh up the important aspects of life - commuting time, school run, parking, garden. Satisfy these first before allowing the view or the extra storage space to sway you away from your reason for moving.

Step 4 - Making an Offer

Once you have found the right property we will put your offer forward to the seller both verbally and in writing confirming any special conditions of the offer. At this point you may need to demonstrate, if requested, that you are in a position to proceed. (e.g. provide details of any related sale, provide evidence of your mortgage agreed in principle).

Step 5 - Agreeing a Sale

Once your offer has been accepted we will do the following:

• Write to all parties confirming the agreed price and conditions of sale
• Confirm when the property will be taken off the market
• Ask you to confirm your solicitor's details and mortgage broker details
• Upon receipt of the above we will prepare a memorandum of sale

Step 6 - Formally Instruct your solicitor to proceed with the purchase

Your solicitor will do the following upon receipt of the draft contract from the seller:

• Raise enquiries
• Approve Contract
• Submit Searches

Step 7 - Instruct A Survey

You will need to contact your bank or mortgage broker to proceed with your mortgage application. A survey of the property will be booked by a surveyor on behalf of your chosen mortgage lender to check for any structural issues and advise on the property's value.

After the mortgage valuation report is received, a formal mortgage offer will be sent to you and your solicitor which you will need to sign before it is returned.

Step 8 - Legal process continues

Your solicitors will do the following once searches are back and/or replies to enquiries are received:

• Review replies to enquiries
• Raise additional enquiries from the results of searches, valuation/survey and any new information

Step 9 - Exchange of Contracts

Once your solicitor is satisfied with replies to all outstanding enquiries your solicitor will do the following:

• Review Entry file
• Report to you with search results, legal title, replies to enquiries and lease (if leasehold)
• Confirm agreed completions dates
• Exchange Contracts

Step 10 - Completion and collect keys

Completion happens when the remaining moneys (usually 90%) are transferred from your solicitor to the seller's solicitors account.

We will release the keys once the money has cleared in the seller's account.

Congratulations you have bought a house!