Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, but it can also feel overwhelming. With so much to consider—budgets, mortgages, legal paperwork, and finding the right property—it’s easy to feel lost in the process. This guide outlines the key things every first-time buyer should know before taking that first step onto the property ladder.

Since 2020, we’ve returned to the roots of traditional estate agency, adapting strategies that date back to the early days of my career in 2004—long before the internet dominated property sales. This shift was, admittedly, born out of necessity during the high-demand period post-lockdown, when we found ourselves overwhelmed with enquiries.

Moving home isn’t just about the sale price. From legal fees to removals, there are plenty of extra costs to budget for. This guide covers the most commonly overlooked expenses so you can plan with confidence and avoid last-minute surprises. All costs in this guide are just an average and will vary depending on the complexity of the transaction and even where you live in the country so remember to ask for detailed costings.

Since 2004, we have been helping families across the UK handle challenging property sales with the utmost care. Drawing from both professional expertise and personal experiences, our team understands the emotional and logistical complexities involved in selling a property during probate or when assisting a family member into care.