Your guide to buying property with Paul O'Shea Homes

Understand your budget

Before you start viewing properties, it is important to understand what you can afford. Speak to a mortgage adviser, review your deposit and consider the full cost of moving, including legal fees, survey costs, removals and any stamp duty that may apply.

Having your finances in place makes you a stronger buyer and allows you to move quickly when the right property becomes available.

Decide what matters most

Think carefully about your priorities. These may include location, schools, transport links, outdoor space, parking, room sizes or future potential.

It is rare for a property to tick every box, so knowing your must-haves and compromises will help you make better decisions.

Register your search

Registering with local estate agents means you can hear about suitable properties quickly, sometimes before they appear on the main property portals.

At Paul O’Shea Homes, we take time to understand what you are looking for so we can match you with homes that genuinely suit your needs.

View properties carefully

When viewing a home, try to look beyond furniture and decoration. Consider the layout, natural light, storage, condition, garden, parking and how the property would work for daily life.

It is also worth thinking about the road, surrounding area, transport and local amenities.

Make an informed offer

Once you find the right property, you will need to decide what to offer. This should take into account the asking price, recent comparable sales, property condition, demand and your own position as a buyer.

A clear and well-presented offer can make a real difference, particularly if there is competition.

Instruct a solicitor and progress your mortgage

Once your offer is accepted, you will need to instruct a solicitor and move your mortgage application forward. Acting quickly helps keep the sale on track.

Good communication between buyer, seller, solicitors, mortgage adviser and estate agent is essential.

Arrange your survey

A survey helps you understand the condition of the property before exchange of contracts. The type of survey you choose will depend on the age, style and condition of the home.

If issues are raised, they can usually be discussed sensibly as part of the process.

Exchange and completion

Exchange of contracts is the point at which the purchase becomes legally binding. Completion is when the money is transferred, keys are released and you can move into your new home.

The process can feel stressful at times, but with clear communication and experienced guidance, it becomes much easier to manage.