About buying your home

Buying your home

When you buy a house you are investing in a home for your family. It may well be the biggest financial investment you have ever made and its future value will play a part in the life of your family for years to come.

Ask yourself a few sensible questions.

• Is it the right size?
• Will it be big enough for you in five years?
• Will it be too big?
• Is the location right?

Can you afford it?

Remember, a house brings financial commitments over and above the purchase - and mortgage - price. Think of local authority taxes. Transport costs to work. Furnishing and decoration costs. Renovation and modernisation.

How far is it from the shops?

The house itself may be ideal. But have you checked public transport facilities; even a motorist may need them occasionally.

What about schools?

Consider your needs and those of your family now - and in the years to come.

Have you had a really good look at the property?

In daylight and at night, so you can gauge the volume of traffic and consider access facilities. Perhaps even identify potential problems with neighbours.

Is the property structurally sound?

For more information, please see our Guide to surveying and valuation.