Buying your first home is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. A clear checklist helps first-time buyers stay organised and feel confident throughout the process.
Our guide walks through the essentials, from budgeting and mortgages to surveys, legal checks, and moving day.
Work Out Your Budget & Upfront Costs
Before you fall in love with a property, you need to know exactly what you can afford. Your budget includes the deposit and hidden costs that can catch first-time buyers off guard.
You should aim to save a deposit that covers at least five-10% of the property price. In 2026, first-time buyers in England and Northern Ireland generally pay 0% Stamp Duty on properties up to £300,000. For homes between £300,001 and £500,000, you pay 5% on the portion above £300,000.
Don't forget to budget roughly £2,000–£3,000 for additional costs, including solicitor fees, searches, and moving costs.
Get a Mortgage Agreement in Principle (AIP)
Securing an AIP from a lender is a vital early step. It provides a formal estimate of the amount available to borrow based on your credit score and income.
Having an AIP strengthens your position as a serious buyer by making your offers more attractive to sellers and estate agents alike.
Research Locations & Property Types
First-time buyers often have to choose between character and convenience. Older properties may offer more space but can come with higher maintenance bills. Conversely, new-build homes in Derbyshire or other growing regions are designed with modern energy efficiency in mind, potentially saving you thousands in utility costs over the long term.
Consider your daily commute, local amenities, and whether you prefer a "fixer-upper" or a home that is move-in ready.
View Properties with a Critical Eye
When viewing a house, look past the staging. Use a quick checklist of damp, plumbing, the exterior, and the EPC rating.
Peeling wallpaper or a musty smell are telltale signs of damp to look out for when viewing a property. As for the plumbing, check the water pressure and how long it takes for hot water to come through.
You shouldn't neglect a deeper inspection of the exterior - always look for cracks in the brickwork or slipped roof tiles. Finally, a higher EPC rating means lower bills and a warmer home.
Make an Offer & Instruct a Solicitor
Once you find "the one," make your offer through the estate agent. If accepted, you'll need to instruct a conveyancing solicitor.
They handle the legal transfer of the property, including local authority searches to check for things like planned motorways or nearby flood risks.
Arrange Surveys & Final Checks
Even if your mortgage lender does a valuation, it's only to protect their investment. You should arrange your own survey, including a condition report, especially for newer standard homes.
If you are buying a new house, a professional snagging report identifies minor defects for the developer to fix before you move in. Older or unusual properties will require a full structural survey.
The penultimate milestone is the exchange of contracts when you pay your deposit and the deal becomes legally binding.
The remaining funds are transferred, and the house keys are handed over on completion day, and you are officially a homeowner.
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