Getting Advice

Probi

Hi All,

Just a quick question, me and my girlfriend are currently saving for a deposit but have no idea how much we would need etc or what sort of money we could afford, other than what I have put on online calculators etc which are only a rough guide.

What is the best way about going to get advice? Is it better to go our bank and speak to them or see an IFA or anything else??

Many thanks

kingstreet

Talk to friends and relatives who have bought a property recently. See if they can recommend a good whole market or independent broker who will take you through the things you need to know before you start to look.

Once you have a grounding in how much you can borrow and what the upfront and monthly costs will be, you can view with confidence. You may also like to consider having a mortgage agreed in principle, but this may well leave a "footprint" on your credit file, so have no more than one.

Find out what mortgage products you can get direct from banks and building societies to ensure you get the best deal, but avoid buying insurance products through these channels as they are typically a lot more expensive and the cover may not be as good as you might get from an independent financial adviser.

Probi

Thanks very much Kingstreet!

I don't think I know anyone that has purchased recently, so may have to find one for myself.

At least I now know roughly what to do.

Thanks

kingstreet

Have a look at https://www.unbiased.co.uk, switching off the "website/email only" link, as this gives you a full list for your area, not just the ones who pay for the big adverts.

Talk to a few. Get a feel for what they have to say. Sort out who charges a fee, who only earns commission and who does both.

If you need to ask any more questions, post back in your thread and I'm sure one of us will be able to help.