Common First-Time Buyer Mistakes To Avoid
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- First House,hidden Costs,Leasehold,Freehold,Planning Restrictions
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Buying a house involves more than just the asking price. Many first-time buyers overlook additional costs, which can add up quickly. Stamp Duty, legal fees, and mortgage arrangement costs can significantly impact your budget. Moving expenses, home insurance, and essential repairs may also require immediate attention. If you're purchasing a leasehold property, service charges and ground rent could be ongoing expenses. Council Tax rates vary depending...
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Top Tips For First Time Home Buyers
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- Mortgage,Buying Your First House,Realistic Budget,Property Features,Purchase Price
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Before searching for a home, it’s crucial to determine how much you can afford. Start by assessing your income, savings, and monthly expenses to understand what mortgage repayments will be manageable. Many lenders recommend that housing costs, including mortgage payments, do not exceed 30-35% of your monthly income. Consider saving for a deposit, as a higher deposit can lead to better mortgage rates. Factor in stamp duty, legal fees, and moving...
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Do I Need A RICS Valuation For Help To Buy
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The Help to Buy scheme was a UK government initiative designed to assist first-time buyers in purchasing newly built homes. Through an equity loan, the government provided financial support, enabling buyers to secure a property with a minimum deposit of 5%. This scheme aimed to make homeownership more accessible by reducing the initial financial burden on buyers. A Help to Buy valuation is a professional assessment of a property's current market value,...
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Why Is Japanese Knotweed A Problem
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Japanese knotweed is a tall plant that was first brought to the UK from Japan. It was once used in gardens because of its unusual looks. The plant has thin, bamboo-like stems and heart-shaped leaves. In the summer, it produces small white or cream flowers. One of the reasons Japanese knotweed is so troublesome is that it spreads using underground roots called rhizomes. These roots can grow very deep and far, allowing the plant to cover large areas...
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Things to Consider When Buying a Period Property
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This article explores the things to consider when buying a period property. Explore essential factors to consider, from architectural charm and historical significance to maintenance requirements and renovation potential. We have lived in period properties for most of our lives, and in Kent and the surrounding counties, we have a wealth of styles to choose from. Charming terraced cottages, elegant Georgian townhouses, Medieval Manor...
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House Extension Ideas For UK Homes
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From chic kitchen extensions that redefine culinary spaces to stylish loft conversions adding valuable square footage, our curated collection caters to diverse tastes and lifestyles. Navigate the nuances of planning permissions and architectural trends with our expert insights. Creating a two-storey extension is a fantastic option for upgrading the functionality and aesthetic appeal of your home. This type of renovation not only increases...
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The Most Common House Survey Problems
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- Asbestos in House Survey,Roof Issues Inspection,Dampness and Wet Rot Problems,Japanese Knotweed in Property,Structural Movement Survey Findings
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Whether you're buying or selling a property, our comprehensive insights shed light on issues that frequently arise during home surveys. From structural concerns to hidden defects, stay informed about what to look out for and how to navigate these challenges. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned property investor, this guide is your key to a smoother real estate transaction. One of the most prevalent issues that often...
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Do I need a Party Wall Agreement
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If you are planning to carry out any building works in your property which will affect a shared wall in one way or the other, a Party Wall Agreement will be required under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. A party wall is a wall that's shared with the neighbours. Also, a garden wall that's located over a shared boundary can also be considered as a party wall, although this might vary with the circumstances. If you are planning to...
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Party Wall Matters Part 3
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You should consider the following; if the works in progress fall under the scope of the Party Wall Act i.e. excavation within a diameter of 3 meters, with foundations equal to or greater than your foundation, and works that involve the party structure, you can apply for an Interlocutory Relief to the courts. The court will stop the undertakings until the correct procedures are followed. However, you should seek professional help before going...
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Party Wall Matters Part 2
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Party wall disputes are one of the most difficult part of planning application- every case is unique. We have listed some of the most common questions and answers regarding party walls, serving notices and building work. Basically, you will have two options under the Party Wall Act; the first option is that you allow the owner of the building to correct the damages caused by using their builders. The second option is that you receive...
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Party Wall Matters Part 1
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While considering to start building works and chances are that it may affect the adjacent structures and properties in a highly built-up area, it is required that you serve them a notice that informs them your intentions. This should be done to protect the interests of your neighbours. The Act that covers works which require notice includes the following: New wall construction along a boundary that is shared. Excavations that exceeds...
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Chartered Building Surveyors
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- Chartered Building Surveyors
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The Royal Institute Of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) is the professional body for people that work in this industry. Surveyors must belong to this organisation in order to be able to call themselves Chartered Surveyors. There are professional standards that they must adhere to and they also receive ongoing training that is provided by RICS. The term Chartered Surveyor can cover a whole range of different professions but in the UK members of the public...
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What are the Building Regulations
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Chances are, if you have had an extension on your house or planned a DIY project, you will have heard of the different parts of the Building Regulations and Approved Documents, but what are they exactly? The Building Regulations are a set of guidelines which outline the minimum standard for every part of a building. It was established as the result of a great catastrophe- the Great Fire of London. The unfortunate combination of closely built...
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