LETTERS
Mailbox WRITE TO US!
Please send us your questions, comments and suggestions concerning property, or the articles in First Time Buyer magazine.
lynda@firsttimebuyermag.co.uk
WHAT ARE COVENANTS I have been told about covenants when buying my first home? What are they and are they important? Arthur Haylock
HIRING A TRADESPERSON Having just bought my first home, I am keen to do some small renovations to it. Do
you have any tips on hiring a reputable tradesperson to carry out the work I need? Freya Finchley
FTB says: A covenant, when buying a house, is a legal obligation or restriction written into the property’s title deeds that stays with the land rather than the owner. There are two main types – restrictive covenants, which limit how the property can be used (such as prohibiting extensions, running a business, or keeping certain animals), and positive covenants, which require the homeowner to do something, like maintain a shared driveway or contribute to communal upkeep. These covenants are important because breaching them can lead to legal consequences or demands for compensation. During the conveyancing process, your solicitor will check for any existing covenants and advise you accordingly.
FTB says: Hiring a tradesperson doesn’t have to be risky if you follow a few key steps to protect yourself. First, always ask for proof of public liability and professional indemnity insurance.This safeguards you against potential costs from accidents, damage, or incomplete work. Make sure to get detailed, written quotes or estimates before any work begins; these should clearly outline the scope, timeline and costs involved, and it’s wise to compare at least three to ensure transparency and fairness. Avoid anyone who insists on full payment upfront.
You have the opportunity to win a trip to B&M! This issue’s star letter wins a £25 gift card to the nation’s favourite discount retailer. Shop the gorgeous new garden ranges and enjoy summer outdoors! Whether you’re looking
While a deposit may be reasonable, reputable professionals usually offer a structured payment plan linked to project milestones, with the final payment due upon satisfactory completion. Be cautious of tradespeople who use high-pressure tactics or try to rush your decisions, especially around materials or pricing. A trustworthy professional will allow you time to review your options and ask questions. Finally, always check that they hold valid, verifiable certifications or qualifications, which confirm their competence and compliance with industry standards. Using trusted directories or accredited certification bodies is one of the most effective ways to find a reliable and skilled tradesperson.
for bright and colourful decor to bring life to your patio such as the Paradiso range, or to browse a range of beautiful flowers and plants at unbeatable prices in its garden centres, you’ll find everything you need to create your dream garden sanctuary! bmstores.co.uk (Not available online only in store)
THINGS TO AVOID I am starting on my journey to buy my first home. Are there any particular things I should avoid in the run-up to getting a mortgage that might make it harder to be accepted for one? Daniel Ford FTB says:When preparing for a mortgage, it’s essential to avoid making major financial changes that could negatively affect your credit profile or debt-to-income ratio. Don’t take on new debt, such as financing a car, applying for personal loans, or opening new credit cards, as these actions can lower your credit score and raise
OFF-PLAN Having looked around a few new build developments I am deciding whether or not it is a good idea to buy off-plan. Are there any benefits in doing this? Ryan Ghwalia FTB says: Buying a house off- plan, before it’s built or while it’s still under construction, offers several advantages. Often, off- plan properties are priced more competitively than completed homes, providing potential savings and the opportunity for capital growth if property values increase during the build. Buyers may also be able to customise elements such as
concerns with lenders. Avoid making large, unexplained deposits or withdrawals from your bank accounts. Lenders will scrutinise your financial activity to ensure everything is stable and verifiable. It’s also important not to change jobs or reduce your income during this time, since employment stability plays a significant role in the approval process. Additionally, never miss any bill payments as just one late payment can hurt your credit and jeopardise your chances of getting approved. Staying financially consistent, transparent and cautious is key in the lead-up to securing a mortgage.
VISIT OUR WEBSITE For everything you need to know about buying for the first time, go to firsttimebuyermag.com better energy efficiency and lower running costs, and they usually come with a 10-year structural warranty, giving added peace of mind. fixtures, finishes and layouts, creating a more personalised living space. Developers frequently offer incentives, including help with legal fees, Stamp Duty contributions, or upgraded appliances. Off-plan homes are typically built to high modern standards, offering
First Time Buyer August/September 2025 7
Made with FlippingBook - Online catalogs