The 6 Common Downfalls of First Time Homebuyers

First time buyers need all the help they can get (see - estate agent in Northolt). For some much-needed help and advice and a foot on the property ladder, see these 6 biggest house-hunting errors.

Mistake #1: Looking Beyond Your Means

Viewing homes beyond your budget may become a slippery slope. Once you've fallen deeply in love with a home, there is sometimes no going back. So, when you do you want to make certain that it's a home you can afford.

Though it can be appealing to look outside your budget, you'll only be causing yourself future stress and heartache. Know your budget and stick to it.

Mistake #2: Settling For the First or Second Home You See

In the rush and excitement of first-time house hunting, people will often try and snap up the third, second or even first house that they see. Whilst you may be in a hurry to acquire your dream home, you have to remember that buying a property is a big deal - you ought to get it right.

Whilst you may believe you've found your perfect home, there are likely to be many other houses out there with the exact same features, but better still. Take your time and try to avoid making any rash decisions.

Mistake #3: Underestimating the Meaning of the Word 'Renovation'

'It could do with a little work, but there's so much potential here'

Sound familiar? Well, whilst the house could indeed have the potential to be something great, do you have the time, money or skills to make it that way?

In their excitement, lots of buyers neglect to think of the costs and time that may come with renovating a property. Don't buy a fixer-upper that you simply can't handle.

Mistake #4: Overlooking Important Flaws

When you find a home in your dream location or with the perfect garden you wanted, it is easy to become blind to the house's flaws or faults.

Yes, a home may have some of the features you were desperate to find, but don't let this prevent you from noticing any flaws or faults that could perhaps ruin this home for you.

Mistake #5: Making an Offer Too Fast - Or Too Slow

Before you rush into anything, you should be sure that this is the property that you would like. Yes, the market is competitive at the moment, but is it still worth taking a huge risk on something that might not be right for you?

On the other hand, you don't want to be dragging your feet when it comes to putting in offers. Once you know that you've found the house for you - go get it (see - properties for sale UB6)!

Mistake #6: Offering Too Much

Last but not least, avoid losing your head in any bidding wars. When you're trying to secure an offer on a home your in love with, it can be all too easy to offer a much higher price than you'd originally intended.

Keep a cool head; you may love this house but if you begin making offers out of your price range and it's accepted - you may grow to love it less.

For more help and information on how to buy your first home, see - Brian Cox estate agent.