03/11/2026
If I was putting an offer in on a house tomorrow, here’s what I’d do within the first week: 🏡✨🫶🏻
1. Make sure I actually know what I can afford - Before putting an offer in, I’d speak to a mortgage broker to understand my borrowing potential, monthly repayments and the deposit I’d need. I’d also get an Agreement in Principle sorted if I hadn’t already.
2. Find out everything I could about the house - I’d ask about the property’s history, whether there’s been any major work done, how old the boiler is and whether there have been any issues with damp or flooding. I’d also check the EPC and council tax band.
3. Have my solicitor ready to go - If my offer was accepted, I’d want to instruct a conveyancing solicitor quickly so the legal process could get started. I’d also make sure I understood their fees and what I’d be paying if the purchase fell through.
4. Get my mortgage application moving - Once my offer was accepted, I’d get back in touch with my broker, provide any documents they needed and discuss the right mortgage for my circumstances. I’d also arrange an appropriate property survey, as a lender’s valuation isn’t the same as a survey.
Get my paperwork organised - I’d have my payslips, bank statements, proof of deposit and ID ready. The sooner I could provide everything requested, the less chance of avoidable delays.
5. Get a few quotes for a house survey - I’d compare local surveyors, check their availability and make sure I’m getting the right level of survey for the property. Spending a few hundred pounds now could save me a very expensive surprise later.