Looking for a new home can be exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming—especially if it’s your first time. The good news is, with a bit of research, local knowledge, and the right support, you’ll be well on your way to finding a property that’s just right for you.
Start with the Portals—but Don’t Stop There
You’ve probably heard of Rightmove and Zoopla. These websites are great for browsing and getting a sense of what’s available in your price range. They’re useful for spotting trends and comparing types of properties in different areas.
But here’s the catch: not every home for sale is listed online.
Some properties are sold before they even make it onto the portals. That’s why it’s essential to register with local estate agents. Give them a ring, explain your budget, ideal location(s), and your must-haves. Follow their social media too—many agents (us included!) will post new listings on Instagram or Facebook first, before they’re advertised more widely.
Why Registering Early Matters
When an estate agent is preparing a property for the market, there are several steps before it goes live: paperwork, photography, writing the advert, arranging energy performance certificates, and more. This can take a week or two.
But before all of that, agents are already thinking about buyers like you.
If you’re registered, you could be invited to view the property before it’s publicly available. That means you can make an offer early—and potentially secure your dream home before anyone else knows about it.
Let the Experts Guide You
A good estate agent won’t just match you to properties that tick your boxes—they’ll often recommend places you might not have considered. Trust their experience.
Think of those property shows on TV. How many times do people fall in love with the so-called “mystery house”? Agents know their stuff. Let them guide you—you might be surprised.
Stay Flexible
When you first start searching, you might have a perfect vision in mind. That’s normal. But as you explore what’s available, you may realise you’ll need to compromise—whether that’s on location, parking, or garden space.
That doesn’t mean settling. It just means adjusting your expectations to find the best fit within your budget.
Four Tips for Property Viewings
1. Visit the Area in Advance
If you know roughly where the property is, take a walk around before the viewing. Don’t worry about the house itself yet—just get a feel for the surroundings. Are there shops, schools, or transport links nearby? Can you picture yourself living there?
2. Be Prepared
Make a list of questions or things to check. This might include the boiler age, windows, or whether the loft is insulated. Having a few prompts can help you get the most out of the visit.
3. Don’t Panic
It’s okay to ask questions—there’s no such thing as a silly one. Estate agents are used to helping first-time buyers. And remember, if anything concerns you during the process, such as a crack or damp patch, you’ll have a chance to hire a surveyor to inspect it properly later.
4. Don’t Delay
There’s an old saying in estate agency:
“The house you’re thinking about overnight is the same one someone saw yesterday, thought about overnight, and is going to buy today.”
If you like it, make an offer. Yes, it’s important to feel confident—but don’t let FOMO (fear of missing out) lead to hesitation. Good homes go quickly, especially ones that tick your most important boxes.
Ready to Start Your Search?
We hope this guide gave you a few useful pointers as you begin the exciting journey of finding your ideal home. Whether you’ve got questions, want to register your details, or just want a bit of advice, we’re here to help.
Contact us today and let’s find The One together.
