Finding a Home
Before beginning your search be sure to check out how much property is actually selling for in your intended area(s), as this can often differ significantly from asking prices. Visit sites such as http://www.nethouseprices.com/ to view selling prices recorded by the UK Land Registry.
The Internet is probably the best place to begin your housing search, with http://www.rightmove.co.uk/ probably the largest property listings site. It's still worth visiting local estate agents in person to register and be kept informed on new listings. The human touch still has a place and individual agents may keep your requirements in mind as new properties hit the market.
The Internet is also encouraging an increasing number of sellers to offer their properties on a "for sale by owner" basis (ie cutting out estate agents). In theory this should benefit both seller and buyer as no agent's fees are deducted from the equation. Check out sites such as http://www.homesonsale.co.uk/
Auctions
Buying at auction can be a means of achieving a quick purchase, and also getting a bargain to boot.
A successful bid at auction constitutes a contract to purchase with no going back by either side, so it is essential to carry out any surveys / inspections / legal searches etc ahead of the auction itself. This means of course that unsuccessful bidders will probably have spent significant time and money for no purpose.
Take time to peruse the list of properties coming up for auction, these are published by auctioneers and estate agents or see the Web sites listed below. Make arrangements to view those that seem most likely, and then proceed to get an inspection and legal checks done on those you want to bid for.
Tip: visit a few auctions beforehand for a dry run before bidding for a property just to see how things work.
It’s possible that the seller may just want a quick sale, but beware that it’s most often problem properties that end up at auction. These may include re-possessions that have been trashed by evicted former owners, properties in very poor states of repair etc. Be sure to do your homework, and if you intend to bid on a property set a maximum figure to which you will go – and stick to it!
Homes Requiring Renovation
Be aware that builders and engineers don't come cheap, and are of variable quality and efficiency. If you do decide on professional renovation be sure to get several detailed quotes for each task. Don't necessarily take the cheapest; instead select the one that will do the best job for the money. Go for an established and experienced tradesman, preferably one that has been personally recommended. Don't entertain unsolicited canvassers.
Unless you have an aptitude for DIY, or have had recommendations of competent, reputable, and AFFORDABLE professionals, renovations may be best avoided.
