Not only are first time buyers essential to keep the property market moving – buying  your first home is probably one of the most exciting purchases you will ever make! Lets make sure it goes as smoothly as possible.

To make life easier make sure you follow our top ten steps:-

• Make a list of all your income/outgoings and savings
• Secure a mortgage agreement in principle
• Make list of ‘needs versus wishes’ to look for in the properties you look at, and consider all types of property
• Identify areas which are ‘up and coming’, offering value for money
• Check new build offers versus second hand home prices
• Visit at different times of the day to get a feel for living there
• Consider renting out a room in your new home if it allows you to buy more space
• Secure a good legal representative and read ALL the paperwork
• Make sure you get an independent Homebuyers or Builders Survey
• Check you can afford your new home, even if interest rates increase and protect against redundancy

Many first time buyers don’t realise they are in a strong position to affect property prices – if first time buyers don’t buy, no-one up the chain can move. So take your time and negotiate the best deal you can – leaving around £1,000 a year to spare for any emergency repairs.