Talk with a financial advisor and secure a mortgage in principle, as this will speed up the moving process once you have found your ideal property. If you don’t have a mortgage adviser, ask us, and we can recommend someone.

Think about your property requirements and make a list of ‘must haves’ and ‘nice to haves’. Take time to research the areas you are interested in and find out about local regeneration plans, flood-risks, school catchment areas, parking and how your work travel time will be affected.

Whilst your initial property search will probably be undertaken online, it’s essential to get to know a local estate agent. Make the effort to introduce yourself on the phone, or even better, by going into their offices and registering with them. Conversation and a good rapport with your agent can make the buying process a positive experience.

Be observant. Be aware of the surrounding property, traffic levels and parking. Take photos. Having images to refer back to can be so helpful when viewing several properties. If you are getting that all-important feeling about a property, return to it at different times of the day to see how the natural light changes in the house and if there are things that you didn't notice on your first viewing.

It’s negotiation time. Once again, research what similar properties in the area have sold for and when. Now talk to the estate agent about your offer plans, listing points in your favour, and listen to their advice.

Knowing your mortgage has been agreed in principle, it’s now time to engage a property solicitor. They will guide you through the legalities and timings of the buying process from survey to exchange to completion. Communication is key throughout this period of buying so choose a solicitor you can work with.

A property survey is optional, but it does mean you can assess the condition of the building and if there are problems you are informed. If required, you may wish to put aside money for the repairs or ask to negotiate on the offer.

It's time to contact your removal company. A briefing sheet is a great idea to hand over to them, so they know your requirements. Check their availability before the property exchange and how flexible they are in case dates are moved.

Legal fees, on average, cost between £850 and £1,500. You will also need to pay out for local searches, that will highlight any local plans and issues.

This is paid to the seller’s solicitor on exchange of contracts. Your solicitor will take care of this on your behalf.

Arrange insurance from exchange. This is because you will not be legally covered by the seller’s insurance and you must protect yourself in case of anything happening to the property you are about to complete on.

The completion date is the date that you legally take possession of a property. This happens once both parties involved have signed and exchanged contracts, having agreed a completion date. The mortgage lender will need to be advised when to release funds to your solicitor so that the transaction can be completed.

To get an idea of how much you would need to allow in your purchasing budget for stamp duty, we recommend heading straight to Government source at https://www.gov.uk/stamp-duty-land-tax/residential-property-rates, Your solicitor will advise you of the exact amount of Stamp Duty Land Tax that must be paid on completion of the property purchase.