Your Complete First-Time Buyer Checklist
Buying your first home is exciting but complex. This checklist covers every step from saving your deposit to picking up the keys.
Before You Start Looking
1.Check your credit score — Experian, Equifax, or ClearScore (free). Fix any errors before applying for a mortgage.
2.Save your deposit — Most lenders require 5-10% minimum. A 15% deposit gets you significantly better rates.
3.Get a Decision in Principle (DIP) — A mortgage broker can get you a DIP in 24 hours, showing sellers you're serious.
4.Budget for additional costs — Stamp duty, solicitor fees (£1,000-2,000), survey (£400-1,500), and moving costs.
Stamp Duty for First-Time Buyers (2026)
First-time buyers pay no stamp duty on the first £300,000 of a property up to £500,000. Above £500,000, you pay the standard rates on the full amount.
Searching for Properties
5.Research the area first — Use our free area reports to check crime, schools, transport, flood risk, and broadband before viewing.
6.Consider the commute — A cheaper area 10 minutes further out could save you tens of thousands.
7.Check planning applications — Proposed developments nearby could affect your view, noise levels, or future value.
8.Look at sold prices — Our property reports show what neighbours paid, so you know if the asking price is fair.
Making an Offer
9.Offer below asking — In most markets, 5-10% below asking is a reasonable starting point.
10.Get a survey — A HomeBuyer Report (Level 2) is minimum. For older properties, get a Building Survey (Level 3).
11.Instruct a solicitor — They handle searches, contracts, and the legal transfer. Budget £1,000-2,000 including disbursements.
Due Diligence
Before completing, make sure you've checked:
•Flood risk (Environment Agency data)
•Subsidence risk (British Geological Survey)
•Planning permissions and restrictions
•Leasehold vs freehold terms
•Service charges and ground rent (for flats)
•EPC rating and potential energy costs
Our property reports cover all of this in one place for £14.95.
Completion
12.Exchange contracts — You're legally committed at this point. Your deposit (usually 10%) is at risk if you pull out.
13.Complete — Money transfers, keys handed over. You're a homeowner!
14.Register with HMRC — File your stamp duty return within 14 days of completion.
Good luck with your purchase!