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Socajam

Jessy103 wrote: »

Thanks for the advice Socajam. I already have two savings accounts set up, one for an emergency fund and the other for overpaying the mortgage and house stuff. The bf has already signed a consent form to agree that he has no entitlement to the house if he does move in. It's very much my house and I'm taking no chances! I've already got a spreadsheet set up to track my spending and I've gone through all the potential bills so I know how much I'll have left of my wage each month and we're looking at about £300 a month. I agree with you about the decoration and I've bought a sofa off a work colleague for £50 so i have something to sit on until I can choose what I want. I'm excited but also nervous, I haven't been on my own in 13 years so this is a big step for me and I'm trying to be as sensible as possible. I appreciate the advice, I need it so I don't get carried away!

You are welcome.
I have been in your situation and can tell you that it is hell. I have now recovered and in a much better position.
Just make sure that you have that money put aside, there is nothing worse that being broke and having no one to turn to.
Glad that the boyfriend will sign that he will not be entitled to anything should your relationship go South.
Love is all good when its going well, but when things turn bitter, that is another story. Make sure that you are clear what he pays for etc.
Your responsibility is the mortgage 100%, buildings insurance and contents. The other bills should obviously be shared.
This is not to say that you do not have feelings for him, but as we get older, it is extremely hard to start over mortgage wise or getting some where to rent.
Enjoy your life with your boyfriend and dogs, but remember the saying: God bless the child that's got his (her) own. That is so true and something that I continue to live by.
Call me cynical but I read too many stories on here of both men and women who are in despair after many years and after being there, I have no reason to return.

Jessy103

Thanks Hetty and Movingforwards.

Thank you Socajam. My marriage ending has taught me a valuable lesson and that is that it is OK to be selfish and put your needs first and do what is right for you. I'm certainly going to make sure that I look after myself and my future from now on!

I appreciate the advise guys and I'm happy to be back on the forum

Jessy103

When people say buying a home is one of the most stressful things you'll ever do, they weren't wrong. The valuation on the house for my mortgage offer was meant to have been done last week but when the surveyor got there, whoever was supposed to meet him didn't turn up! I've been on the phone with the estate agent and mortgage company trying to sort it out. The surveyor is going back tomorrow to get the valuation done, let's hope he gets let in this time!!
There's a tenant living in the property at the moment that doesn't have to leave until the 24th June, I was hoping to then move in on the 25th June (I booked the week off work in anticipation), well, my solicitor has said that she would advise against this and that I should check the house once the tenant has moved out to make sure it is in a fit state and not exchange contracts until this is done. I know what she's saying and it makes sense but it also adds another week onto the moving date which quite frankly sucks! On the plus side it does give me some extra time to save some more money.

I'll be so glad when it's all over and I can start overpaying!

Nichelette

I know the wait is a bit rubbish but your solicitor is right. We bought a house that had been rented out and I was slightly concerned about what would happen if the tenant didn't leave at the allocated time. Fortunately she did and all was fine as I'm sure it will be in your case, but it's best to give yourself a bit if time. As it turned out I needn't have worried as sellers solicitor was so rubbish the house was empty for 3 months after tenant left :eek:.

Jessy103

Thanks nichelette. I'm also worried the tenant won't leave in time but thank you for telling me you were in the same position it has eased my mind knowing I'm not the only one who has had this problem!

Socajam

Jessy103 wrote: »

Thanks nichelette. I'm also worried the tenant won't leave in time but thank you for telling me you were in the same position it has eased my mind knowing I'm not the only one who has had this problem!

Bear in mind that not all tenants are nice, but can be real Bs and leave the house damaged.
I agree with the solicitor to check that everything is in place before signing anything.
Make sure that you take pictures of the house just like the tenant leaves it - you never can tell.
Yes, buying a house is extremely stressful because so much as go wrong. You just have to stay calm and hope for the best.
The first 5 years are the worst, if you can get this this, you should be ok as long as you remember mortgage comes first, everything else is secondary. The worst thing you want is to lose the roof over your head.
Important - change the locks on the doors (get decent locks meaning don't get the cheapest) - back and front - the same day that you sign those papers.
You don't want any surprises.

Jessy103

Good idea about the photos, thanks. Already got the locks covered, I work at a window and door manufacturer so can get access to very good key cylinders easily.

Pointexter

You know what I do after I move? In case of emergency, you need to know how to turn off the power and the water to your home. You should also familiarize yourself with how to shut off the gas and/or oil, as well as the furnace and water heater. Let’s hope you never need to use this knowledge, but just in case…

Jessy103

Thanks pointexter. This isn't my first house just my first one on my own so I know a lot of what to expect anyway.

Hettyhound

Did the surveyor manage to get access this time? Fingers crossed. Thanks for the job hunting wishes by the way; I’m planning on applying for any that 80% fit my criteria as I’m not sure my “ideal” work situation even exists!