Top Tips When House Hunting

Whether it’s your first purchase, or one of many, the house hunting process can be quite daunting and a little overwhelming. Don’t forget to take a step back and pat yourself on the back to be able to make such a commitment – you’re doing great!

We’ve pulled some tips together to consider when house hunting, taking into account the fact that whilst in many ways choice in the housing market fluctuates, too much choice can also throw us off track.

Set your budget

There is absolutely nothing wrong with ‘champagne thinking’, but in many cases, this is often met with ‘prosecco budgets’ and with this is mind, it’s time to get thinking about what your maximum budget is. Don’t stretch yourself too far, as whilst having a beautiful home is a thing of dreams, we all still need to live and enjoy life! Think about keeping some in the reserve for a rainy day – there are lots of costs associated with being a homeowner, many of which aren’t anticipated.

Create a list of essentials

Determine what is desirable and what is absolutely essential. For example, a garden may be desirable to some and essential to others. Think about your list in context, and how much you are willing to compromise for a great price, or location. Once you have this clear in your mind, your shopping around should become a little easier. Of course, this could all change when met with a property you weren’t quite expecting, and in this case – follow your gut!

Shortlist locations

Research the locations you would consider moving to, check out the local towns and shopping centres. Think about how far your local shop is for a pint of milk on a Sunday morning, as these things contribute to how long you are happy and comfy in your home. Think forward, do you plan on adding to the family? If so, it may also be worth looking at schools in the area and local parks and activities.

Viewings

One viewing will not be enough. Visit the property during the day, and also at night – to get a feel for the neighbourhood, the parking situation and the general feel of the area. Ask to walk the property on your own, so you can get a feel for the place and begin to visualise yourself there. Don’t forget to ask as many questions as you like.

Author

  • ​Steve Holdsworth embarked on his journey in the glazing industry in 1978 as an apprentice glazier within a three-person team. Demonstrating dedication and skill, he quickly advanced to lead his own team, focusing on aluminium and timber installations, as well as sealed unit replacements—a period when UPVC was still emerging in the U.K. In 1980, Steve briefly shifted to manufacturing sealed units but returned to his passion for window and door fitting in 1981. Over the next 13 years, he honed his expertise, adapting seamlessly as UPVC became the industry standard.​ Steve joined Coral Windows in 1994, expanding his repertoire to include conservatory installations alongside windows and doors. In 2005, Steve joined a fabrication facility in Freeport, Grand Bahama Island, where he dedicated 15 months, training local workers who were accustomed to aluminium on the nuances of UPVC window and door installations.​ Upon returning to the UK in 2006, Steve returned to Coral windows and assumed the role of Conservatory Manager, a position he held for six years before being promoted to Head of Installations in 2012. In 2015, after recovering from a stroke, Steve resumed his role as Conservatory Manager, a testament to his resilience and commitment to the company.​ Steve has a passion for music, mainly creating new songs via various apps, he has had 5 songs played on the radio in the U.K. Reflecting on his 47-year career, Steve remarks on the swift passage of time and the continuous advancements in the glazing industry, emphasising that every day remains an opportunity for learning.

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Categories: Home Improvement