Sevenoaks
Oxted & Edenbridge
Buying a property can be an exciting journey, especially with the right guidance. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking to move up the property ladder, this guide will walk you through each stage, ensuring a smooth and informed purchase.
Saving for a deposit is crucial to secure a mortgage and get affordable rates. Most buyers will need at least 5–15% of the property’s price. This will vary depending on the terms of the mortgage provider and your credit score.
For first-time buyers, set up a savings account like a Lifetime ISA, where you can put in up to £4,000 per tax year, and the government will add a 25% bonus to your savings in return. Remember, the larger your deposit, the better your financial position will be when it comes to applying for a mortgage.
Before you start searching, have a clear understanding of your finances. Factor in your deposit, mortgage affordability, and other costs such as stamp duty (if applicable), legal fees, surveys, and moving expenses.
Spend time running your numbers to make sure a realistic budget is set. This means you’ll be looking at properties within your price range and minimises surprises and disappointment.
Now the exciting part begins! Work with a trusted local estate agent, like us, and then start to explore the properties on the market in Oxted, Edenbridge, and Sevenoaks. Be your requirements and the features you would like your potential home to have. These can include the number of bedrooms, location, transport links, and amenities. Use this as a guide to prioritise what’s most important to you when deciding on a property.
Each area has its own character and advantages and researching thoroughly means you’ll love your new local area. A good way to find out if you like the area is by visiting at different times of day, check local schools, parks, and shops, and assess commute times if needed. Platform Property can provide local area insights into the best locations in Kent and Surrey to suit your lifestyle.
Before making any offers on a property, you will need to apply for a mortgage agreement in principle (AIP). This shows sellers you’re serious and have the financial backing to proceed with the purchase. We advise that you should speak with a mortgage adviser to find the best mortgage rates, affordability and terms for your circumstances.
Viewing a property is one of the most exciting parts of the home-buying process. It’s your chance to assess whether the house feels right and meets your practical needs. We encourage you to consider viewing a property twice to make the most informed decision.
During your first visit, take your time to assess the property. Focus on the layout, the size of rooms, and how the space makes you feel. Use this time to visualise how the home would suit your lifestyle and ask yourself: Does it meet your basic requirements? Can you imagine living there? Are there any deal breakers? Take notes or photos (if allowed) so you can reflect afterwards. Try to keep an open mind while assessing the property’s potential.
The second viewing is your opportunity to go deeper. This time, approach the property with a more critical eye and take time to investigate details that may have been overlooked initially. Key points to consider include condition, so check for signs of wear, dampness, or structural issues. Assess storage and whether it fits your needs. Test taps, windows and doors to make sure they function as they should. You should also take the time to assess the local area for noise levels, your potential neighbours and amenities. You can even bring along a friend or family member for a second opinion.
Making these additional checks could potentially save you a lot of unnecessary repair costs down the line, so don’t hesitate to ask the seller or agent detailed questions about the property.
Once you’ve found the perfect property for you and your family, it’s time to make an offer. Collaborate with our team to determine the most suitable initial offer while also considering the seller’s position.
A conveyancing solicitor will handle the legal aspects of buying your home, from conducting searches to preparing contracts. Choose a professional conveyancer with experience and good communication skills to ensure the process runs smoothly. Be sure to check the creditability and reviews of these solicitor firms to ensure you make the right decision.
A property survey is essential to identify any hidden issues before you commit. Depending on the property’s condition and age, you may need a basic homebuyer’s report or a more detailed structural survey.
If you’re using a mortgage to buy the property, the mortgage company might help arrange the survey. If you’re a cash buyer, property surveys aren’t required but are usually advised. The results can inform your negotiations and give you peace of mind.
Once all legal checks and surveys are complete, your conveyancing solicitor will exchange contracts with the sellers’ solicitor. At this point, the purchase becomes legally binding, and you’ll pay your deposit. You will need to ensure you have building insurance arranged from this date onwards.
Completion is the day you officially take ownership of your new home. Your solicitor will transfer the funds to the seller, and you’ll receive the keys to your property. Congratulations—you’re now a homeowner!
As your local estate agent, Platform Property is here to help you every step of the way. Don’t take our word for it; here’s what our clients have to say:
“We have recently bought our first home with the help of Platform Property. Our viewing was carried out by Stuart and was the most relaxed and client-centred viewing we have ever had. Then following the acceptance of our offer Lucy took the reins and what could have been a very stressful process was made so much easier thanks to Lucy. She did the chasing, the phoning around and kept us at ease throughout. Thank you to everyone at Platform Property.”
“We recently bought through Platform Property and can honestly say Stuart was a trooper. It was not the easiest of transactions but at all times Stuart was on hand to answer any questions or negotiate with the sellers on varying points, under sometimes difficult circumstances. It was a great team effort to achieve the result we all wanted, buyer, seller and agent!”
So, if you’re looking to buy a property in Oxted, Edenbridge, or Sevenoaks, please contact our team. They’re available from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day to discuss your options with you.