Yet another clueless first time buyer

myoung48

Thank you all, this is massively helpful.  We've asked a few friends and have a list of a few local solicitors we can try.  The other non-solicitor tips have also clarified things a lot.

avawat20

1. I know we need a solicitor at some point, but are unclear when we should arrange for one and when they should get involved in the process.  Should we make our initial offer ourselves to the estate agent or should we have the solicitor do it for us?

Line them up now by getting quotes. You can use some comparison websites but double check any that come up via reviews on Google etc. Also ask anyone you may know who has used any recently (even in the last year or more). Don't go with the agents ones. Anyone who recommends you any (e.g. mortgage broker might), take it with a pinch of salt and compare against the other quotes you get. Once happy then ask to go with them when you're ready. Ask the question that they can take on your case for the timescale you are looking to buy in - if you have one.

2. In the same vein, how do we find a good solicitor?

Answered above.

3. When we make an offer, what are the key things to include other than just the price?  We know we should say something along the lines of "subject to surveyor's assessment", but are there any other caveats that are useful to include?

I mean surveyor fine but that's pretty standard. Make it a condition to take it off of the market. Also anything you want included - don't assume it will be. E.g. kitchen appliances (some people will take their oven), window blinds maybe. Just make sure you cover it off!

4. If we make an offer, is the agent obliged to take it to the owner?  Basically are we negotiating with the owner, with the agent acting as an intermediary, or with the agent directly?  E.g. does the owner give the agent their acceptable price range and they then sort it out?

Just depends what conversations they've had, I believe they have to take the offer to them but if they know what the seller is looking for and you've offered way below then they may try to manage your expectations when you put your offer in.

I'd also add, find a surveyor ASAP too - looks at reviews and prices. Get that done ASAP. Depending on age of property consider if you need more than the structural survey. The surveyors typical offering still don't go into full detail - none will go out of their way to move furniture to check things for example. And be realistic and reasonable about the results, it's easy to panic as a FTB when they mark things as red when actually in reality some things really aren't a major deal.

If applicable ask for latest copy of boiler service. Really check the property - I usually do that via second viewing. Look at the details - the windows, water pressure, check the integrated appliances do work where possible, look closely at bathroom/kitchen tiling, look for plug sockets.

That's all I can think of for now but good luck!