EXPERTS
Agony agent Readers put their property questions to our guest panel of experts: solicitors, mortgage advisers, property gurus and shared ownership providers
THIS MONTH’S PANEL OF EXPERTS
Paula Higgins , Chief Executive, HomeOwners Alliance
Laura Rose , Head of Sales
Services, Southern Housing
Richard Taylor , Area Director, South East, LSL Land & New Homes
Should I buy? Q I am a first time buyer and I’m worried about the responsibility I’m taking on when buying a home. Is it worth the trouble? Martha Green, Birmingham A It’s true, buying a home is taking on a responsibility, and it can be daunting to embark on the legal and financial process for the first time. Being aware of the responsibilities you would take on with homeownership is actually a positive thing, as it can help you prepare and make the right decisions for you. In reality, buying a home is not a process you will go through on your own. First of all, estate agents will be able to offer advice and guidance when it comes to taking the first steps; and if you’re buying a new build home, developments will often have staff who are especially dedicated to progressing the sale. Agents can also direct you towards other experts that will help you on the homeownership journey, recommending mortgage advisers and conveyancers who will guide you through the most complicated stages of financial and legal proceedings. When it comes to the responsibility of homeownership, it’s good to try to get professional opinions, such as from a surveyor.When buying a new build home, you can be sure that there will be a snag inspection to ensure the home is up to the standard promised by the builder and you will also be entitled to a 10-year warranty that can provide extra peace of mind. Buying your first home is a huge financial commitment, but one that should pay off long term. If you want to be certain that the only big purchase you need to make is the home itself, buying a new build can also ensure that there’s no decorating bills to pay, as they will have all new fixtures and fittings.That means you can walk in the door and embark on your new life as a homeowner!
TEST THE PANEL
We need your questions... If you have any queries, or difficulties in understanding the property buying process, our panel of experts is waiting to help. Send our team your questions on buying property, shared ownership, legal issues, or your financial problems and we’ll find the best person from the panel to give the advice you need.
Email your questions to: lynda@ rsttimebuyermag.co.uk
Richard Taylor
130 First Time Buyer August/September 2025
Made with FlippingBook - Online catalogs