Buying or selling a property can be a daunting task, especially if you are doing it for the first time. However, with the help of a good estate agent, the process can be smoother and less stressful. Choosing the right estate agent is crucial as they can make all the difference in achieving a successful outcome. In this blog post, we will discuss how to choose the right estate agent for your needs. 1. Do your research Before selecting an estate agent, it is important to do your research. Look for agents that have a good reputation and have experience in dealing with properties similar to yours ..read more

When do you need a solicitor? When you have had your offer accepted and have it valued you will need to get a property solicitor also known as a conveyancer on board. Although technically you only need them when the property has been valued and you are due to receive your loan offer, it’s best to sign one up early so it doesn’t delay the process. How much does a solicitor cost? For a new property after totting up registration fees etc.. usual costs come in around €3,000 all in. Solicitors can charge all inclusive once off, excluding fees and even by the hour, so it’s important that you make su ..read more

When do you need your home insurance in place? After your property has been valued you will receive a formal letter of offer explaining the remaining conditions you need to meet to get your mortgage cheque. The two big conditions are usually that you have to get mortgage protection insurance and home insurance. So that you don’t slow things down it’s best to get your home insurance sorted as soon as you have an up to date valuation. Why do you need home insurance in place? Lenders will demand that you have home insurance in place before allowing you to draw down on your mortgage, this insuranc ..read more

Buying a home is really difficult. From choosing a mortgage to making offers on properties we know that it's hard to know what estate agents need to prove you're ready to buy. This is how we can help. What is it? We offer a service exclusively for Daft users that will get you in the best position to start making offers on homes. With expert advice and tools we will also provide proof of your status to agents when it's the right time, without giving too much away. Why do you need it? If you are viewing properties and you have found "the One" you will want to make an offer. To do this the estate ..read more

From making use of of the Help-to-Buy scheme to savvy ideas for savings extra money here are a few things you can do to get your deposit together. Old fashioned saving This might seem obvious but saving is a crucial way to get your deposit. But with high rents and other expenses it can be challenging. There's no problem with starting small and getting into a good habit. It also shows the bank that you can save consistently each month. Even if you are gifted the entire deposit banks will still want to see that you can manage your own funds and afford monthly mortgage payments. It's easy to set ..read more

After a seller has accepted your offer the estate agent will ask you for the details of your solicitor and they will request a booking deposit. It's normally between two and five per cent of the total asking price and is used to show you're serious about buying the property. But don't worry, if you change your mind or the surveyors report reveals significant problems you can still get a full refund on your deposit ..read more

You've spoken to the estate agent and they have told you the sellers accepted your offer. Congratulations! While it's certainly time to pop open some bubbly it doesn't mean the journey is over. There are many other decisions that need to be made between now and when you get your keys. Send a deposit to the agent: This is the time to send a refundable deposit to the agent to show you're serious about progressing with the sale. Hire a solicitor: A good solicitor is crucial to having a smooth transaction. We can help you find highly recommended experts in your area. ,Click here. Find a surveyor ..read more

You've found a property that might be the one and you want to see more. Here are some tips that will help. Make use of virtual tours If the ad has a virtual tour take a look at that before reaching out to the agent. Virtual tours give you a great look at the interiors, shape and size of the home and can save you time viewing many properties. Contact the agent On Daft you can email or phone an agent. We recommending calling the agent with the number listed on the ad to see if there are any upcoming viewings you can sign up to. Explore the property and area Take a good look around inside and in ..read more

When you're near the end of your property sale you can ask the agent to have a final walk-through of your new home. This is your chance to make sure you're still happy with the property and to see what repairs and upgrades are needed. What should you bring? Notepad: This will be handy for you to be able to make notes as you walk through the property Phone: Use this opportunity to take lots of photos which you can share with builders, painters or other suppliers that you may work with when you get the keys A Builder: If you plan on doing work on the property before you move in you can save som ..read more

You've searched for months, have secured a mortgage from a bank and now you've found your dream home. What can go wrong? Well, there is one thing standing between you and your home: other buyers. You perfect home may be perfect for other people too and this can lead to bidding wars. Here are some strategies that can help you to win the war. Have your documents ready To start bidding the estate agent may ask for your mortgage approval document. This is given by your lender and it details some of your personal information, the confirmation that the lender has approved your mortgage and it specif ..read more