Whether you’re buying your first home, looking to upsize or downsize, or searching for a buy-to-let property in West Sussex, our team at Michael Jones Estate Agents are on hand to help you at every step of your buying journey.
Start the process of buying a house
The first step to buying a home is registering with your local agents and informing them of your search criteria.
- Price Range
- Location
- Type of property
The buying market can be highly competitive, and by registering, you will be one of the first to know when a property matching your requirements is coming to the market.
Understand how much you can borrow
If you need a mortgage, then it is advised that you know how much you can borrow and even have a mortgage in principle from your lender. A mortgage in principle won’t affect your credit score and will give you a good indication of your property price point.
If you’re selling too, put your property on the market
Before you seriously start a search, you should have your current property on the market and ready to sell. Some sellers may not consider you as a buyer if your property isn’t on the market or hasn’t sold.
Start your search
When you register with us, we will send you alerts for new properties that might suit you – even before advertising begins. You can book viewings of suitable properties, and we will take you around the property, answering any questions you may have.
Find a solicitor
To purchase a property, you will need an experienced solicitor to make the process seamless. Our agents can recommend some experts.
Make an offer
When you have found your dream home, you can make an offer via the agent. You can let the agent know any offer conditions, and they will discuss them with the seller.
Offer accepted
If the seller accepts your offer, the agent will prepare a memorandum of sale, confirm the offer, and confirm your solicitor and mortgage information. You will then ask your solicitor to start the conveyancing process and your mortgage broker (if using) to make your application.
Conveyancing, survey, and mortgage offer
Your solicitor will handle the conveyancing process, and your agent will assist them, keeping you updated every step of the way. A surveyor will survey the property you’re buying to identify structural problems and confirm the property's value. When the valuation report is received, you will have a mortgage offer letter to sign and return.
Exchange and completion
When everything is confirmed and agreed upon by all parties and deposits are paid, the contracts are signed and exchanged. Completion happens when final payments are transferred from the buyer’s solicitors' account to the seller’s solicitors' account. The agent will then release the keys when payments have cleared and you will own your new home.
Tips for buying property in West Sussex
This guide on how to buy property in West Sussex should give you an idea of the house-buying process. If you want more advice and insight, get in touch with our expert property professionals who can guide you on your buying journey.