What You Need to Know Before Making an Offer on a UK Home

Buying a home is a big financial decision, and making an offer on a property is a crucial step in the process. Before you proceed, it’s important to check key details like the property’s value, lease duration (if applicable), and what is included in the sale. This guide will walk you through the process, from making an offer to legal checks and surveys.

Things to Check Before Making an Offer

Before you put in an offer, ensure you’ve reviewed the following:

• Property Value – Research the market price of similar properties in the area.
• Lease Duration (if applicable) – Check how many years remain on the lease. A shorter lease may affect mortgage approval and resale value.
• Inclusions in the Sale – Clarify what is included, such as appliances, furniture, or fixtures.
• Repairs & Inspections – Confirm if the seller will fix any issues or carry out inspections before completion (e.g., boiler servicing).

How to Make an Offer on a Property

Once you’ve chosen a property, you can make an offer through an estate agent. Keep these points in mind:

• The Offer is Not Legally Binding – In England and Wales, an offer is only legally binding once contracts are exchanged.
• Subject to Contract – If your offer is “subject to contract,” the price can still be negotiated later, especially if a property survey reveals issues.

Hiring a Legal Professional

To handle the legal work for buying a home, you need a legal expert, such as:

• Solicitor – A qualified lawyer specializing in property transactions.
• Licensed Conveyancer – A specialist in property law and transactions.
• Chartered Legal Executive or CILEX Practitioner – Legal professionals qualified to conduct property transactions.

You can find more details about home buying and selling on the MoneyHelper website.

Searches and Property Valuation

Once your offer is accepted, your solicitor or conveyancer will arrange important searches on the property. These typically include:

• Local Authority Search – Checks for planning permissions, building regulations, and any local developments that could impact the property.
• Water and Drainage Search – Verifies water supply, drainage, and sewer connections.
• Environmental Search – Assesses risks such as flooding, contamination, and ground stability.

You’ll usually need to pay for these searches upfront.

Additionally, if you’re applying for a mortgage, your lender will conduct a property valuation to ensure the house is worth the loan amount.

Getting a Property Survey

To assess the property’s condition, you can opt for a homebuyer survey. This helps identify structural issues or necessary repairs. Different types of surveys are available, and you can find more details on the MoneyHelper website.

Recommendations from Estate Agents or Mortgage Lenders

Estate agents and mortgage lenders may suggest legal professionals, surveyors, or mortgage brokers to assist you. However, keep in mind:

• They must disclose if they receive a referral fee for recommending a company.
• You are not obligated to use their recommendations. You can choose your own solicitor, surveyor, or mortgage broker.

Making an offer on a property is just the first step in the home-buying process. To ensure a smooth transaction, check the property’s value, understand what is included in the sale, and hire a reliable legal professional. Once your offer is accepted, various searches, valuations, and surveys will help confirm the property’s condition. Remember, you have the right to choose your own legal experts and surveyors, so always research your options before making a decision. With proper planning and due diligence, you can confidently move forward in securing your dream home.

FAQ’s