Things to do before buying a home are necessary—whether it’s your first step onto the property ladder or an upgrade to something bigger. But let me tell you something that most people won’t: if you rush into it, you could be making one of the biggest financial mistakes of your life.
Too many buyers jump in without knowing the full picture, only to regret it later. One of the most crucial things to do before buying is to fully understand the process, from hidden costs to potential pitfalls. So before you sign on that dotted line, let me show you exactly what you need to know to avoid expensive mistakes, unexpected fees, and buyer’s remorse.
1. Can You REALLY Afford to Buy?
Let’s start with the big question: Can you actually afford to buy right now? Because it’s not just about having a deposit—you need to think about the full cost of homeownership.
Upfront Costs
Buying a home isn’t just about saving for a deposit. Here’s what else you’ll need to budget for:
- Deposit – Usually 5-20% of the property price. For a £250,000 home, that’s anywhere from £12,500 to £50,000.
- Stamp Duty – If you’re a first-time buyer, you won’t pay this on properties under £425,000. But if you’re not, expect to pay 2-12% depending on the price.
- Legal Fees – Solicitors and conveyancers typically charge £800 – £2,000.
- Mortgage Fees – Some lenders charge an arrangement fee (around £1,000 – £2,500).
- Survey & Valuation – Can cost anywhere from £250 to £1,500, depending on the type of survey.
Ongoing Costs
It’s not just about buying the home—you also need to afford to live in it.
- Mortgage repayments – Will they still be affordable if interest rates rise?
- Council tax – Check how much it is in the area before you buy.
- Maintenance & repairs – Homeownership comes with unexpected costs (boilers don’t last forever!).
- Service charges & ground rent – If you’re buying a leasehold flat, these can cost thousands each year.
Reality check: Before you start house-hunting, run the numbers and make sure you can afford not just the purchase, but also the ongoing costs.
2. Do You Know the Market?
The UK property market can be unpredictable. Prices go up, down, or sometimes just stall—and buying at the wrong time can cost you. One of the key things to do before buying is to research market trends, speak to local estate agents, and assess whether it’s the right time to invest based on your financial situation.
Is Now a Good Time to Buy?
- Are prices rising or falling? If they’re falling, you might get a better deal by waiting.
- What are interest rates doing? Higher mortgage rates mean higher monthly repayments.
- Is the area a good long-term investment? Some locations appreciate more than others.
Before committing, check property trends in the area, speak to local estate agents, and see if prices are expected to rise or fall in the next 12 months.
3. Have You Thought About Your Long-Term Plans?
Here’s a question most buyers don’t ask themselves:
Will this home still work for you in 5-10 years?
A lot can change—your job, family, lifestyle. One of the most important things to do before buying a home is to think ahead. Consider how your needs might evolve in the coming years to ensure your new home will still suit you in the long run.
Ask yourself:
- Will I need more space soon (for a family, home office, etc.)?
- Am I planning to stay in this area for at least 5 years?
- Could I afford to move if my situation changes?
If you buy the wrong home, you could end up having to sell sooner than planned—potentially at a loss.
4. Are You Overlooking Hidden Issues?
Not all homes are as perfect as they look in the listing photos. One of the essential things to do before buying is to do your due diligence—inspect the property thoroughly, check for hidden issues, and research the local area before making an offer.
Common Problems Buyers Miss:
- Structural issues – Cracks, damp, or signs of subsidence can mean costly repairs.
- Flood risk – Some homes are in high-risk flood areas (check flood maps before buying).
- Leasehold problems – Short leases, high ground rents, or bad management companies can be a nightmare.
- New-build snags – New homes aren’t always flawless—snagging surveys can help spot defects.
What Should You Do?
- Get a proper survey – A basic valuation isn’t enough. A full survey can save you from costly surprises.
- Research the property’s history – Has it been sold multiple times in a short period? That could be a red flag.
- Visit at different times – A quiet road during the day might be a traffic nightmare at rush hour.
Never let excitement cloud your judgment—do your homework first.
5. Are You Choosing the Right Mortgage?
A mortgage is likely the biggest financial commitment you’ll ever make, so don’t just take the first offer you get. One of the key things to do before buying a home is to compare different mortgage deals to ensure you’re getting the best rate and terms for your situation.
Key Mortgage Considerations:
- Fixed or variable rate? Fixed gives stability, but variable might save you money if rates drop.
- How long should you fix for? 2, 5, or even 10 years—consider what’s best for your situation.
- Can you overpay? Some mortgages allow overpayments, which can reduce interest in the long run.
Tip: Speak to a mortgage broker—they can compare different lenders and find you the best deal.
6. Have You Negotiated the Price?
Most sellers expect buyers to negotiate—so don’t be afraid to haggle!
Negotiation Tips:
- Check what similar homes have sold for – Websites like Rightmove and Zoopla show past sale prices.
- Use flaws as leverage – If the survey reveals issues, ask for a price reduction.
- Be prepared to walk away – If the deal isn’t right, don’t be afraid to look elsewhere.
A smart negotiation could save you thousands.
7. Do You Have a Backup Plan on the Things to do Before Buying Home?
Even if you’ve found your dream home, the sale isn’t guaranteed until contracts are exchanged. Around 1 in 3 property sales fall through before completion.
How to Protect Yourself:
- Have a mortgage agreement in principle (AIP) ready – It shows sellers you’re serious.
- Don’t make big financial changes – Avoid taking out new loans before your mortgage is approved.
- Be patient – The buying process can take months. Stay calm and flexible.
Final Thoughts on Things to do Before Buying Home– Should You Buy Now?
Buying a home is one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make. Rushing into it could cost you thousands—or worse, leave you stuck with a home you regret buying.
Before you take the plunge, ask yourself:
- Can I truly afford all the upfront and ongoing costs?
- Have I researched the market and area properly?
- Do I have a long-term plan for this home?
- Have I checked for hidden problems?
- Am I getting the best mortgage deal?
- Have I negotiated the best price?
If you can confidently say YES to all of the above—then you’re ready to buy!
But if not, take your time. It’s better to wait and buy the right home than to rush and regret it later.
