Buying - at what points do you need to 'physically' go and see people?

smallpurplepill

Hi all

It probably sounds a slightly strange question but the reason for asking is OH and I work different hours/days a lot of the time and need to coordinate holiday/days off etc for any time we need to go somewhere and do any sort of admin and paperwork etc as FTBs.

So during the buying process at which points do you need to actually physically turn up (as opposed to phoning someone, writing a letter etc) and do things? And if applying jointly do both applicants need to appear or one person can do it on their behalf?

- Viewing the properties (obviously)
- Interview with the bank/mortgage co/broker as to affordability (?)
- ...others?

From experiences of coworkers etc I seem to remember that they have "got the call" and had to go during that day to do some paperwork etc which wouldn't be possible for us due to the nature of our work.

I am actually struggling with getting any houses viewed at all the moment so the above is somewhat 'academic' since (even in the current climate...) things are going under offer before I've even had a chance to phone or find out any details as I guess the BTL landlords are able to 'pounce' more easily than someone tied to particular hours!

Thanks in advance for any info (and sorry for all the questions!)

Chinkle

Viewings - EA's are used to eve/weekend appointments
If you want to see an IFA re a mortgage they're usuable pretty flexible re eve/weekend visits and will come to you
I've never had an interview for a mortgage application, although you might need to drop in the branch/bank etc to go through money laundering checks
Solicitors - usually just once where they will talk through all the paperwork and get your signatures on the contract
Moving day - obviously

gnimia

Hi there,
I'm in the process of buying as FTB, and havent had to "see" anyone yet - we are still pre-exchange tho, so I guess this may change. My solicitor is 30 miles away, and my mortgage broker does everything by phone - Hth...

G_M

In theory it can all be done by post/letter.

You may want to view the property again/measure for curtains etc, but up to you.

And it certainly helps if you are able to go in to the solicitor or morgage lender/IFA to sign papers. Much quicker than post, and if something arises last minute you can deal with it same day. But it CAN all be posted to you, and posted back.

ET1976

For my first purchase (alone) I went to see the solicitor once. I also went to see a mortgage advisor once but that was entirely my own choice.

For my 2nd purchase (jointly), OH went to see the solicitor once. I was working/living away at the time and never had to do anything in person.