At Crest Nicholson, we are dedicated to providing all our customers with a smooth and hassle-free purchase – but as a first-time buyer you might benefit from an extra helping hand.
That's why we've put together this quick-start guide to get you moving – and if you have any other questions, our Sales Executives are on hand to guide you through each step of the process.
Where do I start?
Thinking about buying your first ever home? There are a few things you need to do before you start your property search.
First of all, you need to work out the amount you can save for a deposit and when you want to buy. These will be key factors in determining what you can afford and the rough purchase price for your new home.
To be sure of your position, you may want to seek impartial financial advice. You can also get an approximate idea of how much you could borrow using MoneySavingExpert's mortgage affordability calculator.
Taking steps to improve your credit score can also help when it comes to securing a mortgage.
What help is available for first-time buyers?
We know saving up for a deposit can be a challenge – but there are options available to help you take your first step on the property ladder.
Deposit Unlock is a new 5% deposit mortgage solution developed by the house building industry in collaboration with mortgage lenders, or take a look at other ways to help you move here.
Keep an eye on ISAs and savings accounts, as different types offer bonus top-ups that can make all the difference in saving for your deposit.
Before searching for your new home, you’ll need a good idea of what mortgage you can get. Spend time researching the different arrangements available and consider meeting with a mortgage advisor.
Choosing a property
With a deposit saved and a mortgage in mind, it’s time to start searching for your dream home.
We have a wide range of properties that are ideal as your first home. Whether it be a riverside townhouse, a city centre apartment, or your first family home in a garden village, there is something for everyone.
Never considered buying new? Take a look at our Why Buy New page for all the benefits you can expect to enjoy from a Crest Nicholson home.
Start your search with our FIND YOUR HOME tool at the top of each page.
Steps to buying a house
Chosen your beautiful new Crest Nicholson home?
Learn what the next steps in the buying process are to complete your purchase and secure your first home by reading our New Home Journey guide.
You can also work out whether you need to pay stamp duty on your new home using our handy calculator. Depending on the price of your new home, as a first-time buyer you are likely to benefit from the government’s stamp duty relief.
Contracts
The final stages of buying your new home involves exchange and completion.
The exchange of contracts will be dealt with by your solicitor. Signing these contracts means committing to buying your house. As part of exchange, you’ll now need to pay your deposit.
The final step is completion, that means your mortgage money is transferred and, once received, you’ll get the keys to your new home!
How long does it take to buy a new home?
With many steps involved, the timeline will vary from person to person, depending on how long they spend searching for a property, the number of homes they view, and whether they’re buying new.
Remember to keep money aside to cover your removal costs, and update the relevant people to let them know about your new home.
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