Taking your first steps onto the property ladder should be an exciting time, however it definitely pays to undertake your research properly and look out for an agent who is a member of o a professional organisation such as the Guild of Property Professionals, The National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA) or the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), here are our top ten tips to explain some of the key items to consider before becoming a home owner.

 Review and consider what you want and what you need.

• Create a list of what you want and more importantly what you actually and only need in the new home to include.
• Split this list into the must haves and the things you can compromise on this will help you avoid making a quick and perhaps wrong decision on a property, be realistic and set your goals in accordance with your budget.
• Have flexibility.
• Although you have your list of do’s and don’ts, must needs and wish list it is important to remain flexible.
• Don’t miss out on the home that may be perfect for you just because it might be located outside your desired area or the bedroom say doesn’t have a fitted wardrobe.
• Listen to an experienced agent who will guide you through the process and perhaps view some properties that you initially think are outside your remit, sometimes with a little creativity a shabby home could become the home of your dreams.
• Check your finances.
• Make sure you pay all of your bills on time.
• Your credit score will have an impact on your mortgage options.
• You may wish to speak to the mortgage advisor thought the Principality Agency at our Llangefni or Holyhead Offices or seek Independent Mortgage advice on how much you can afford.
• Don’t forget there are other costs associated with buying a property such as solicitors fees, stamp duty, home insurance which again our team of experts can help you with.  
• Consider renovations, think about a property that needs renovation, this may or may not be the right choice for you.
• If you are looking at a property that needs work it is advised that you get a thorough inspection and a realistic overview of the work that needs to be undertaken.
• Get a good Solicitor to help you out, once you’ve found the right property it is also important that you find the right Solicitor, someone who’s trustworthy and someone that you can rely upon to work hard for you.
• We always think it is best to use a local Solicitor who has local experience – cheapest is not always the best.
• As a first time buyer you will want a Solicitor who has speed and accuracy and attention to detail.
• Enjoy the process.
• From when you first start to when you complete and move in to your first home the experience may take longer than initially anticipated – try to enjoy it.  
• Take the time to focus on your house hunting and plan the process.
• Buying your first home is probably one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make and should be remembered fondly.