Everybody who has ever had to pack up their lives to live somewhere new understands the sheer complexity (and stress) of moving home. Of course, it’s never as simple as moving from A to B, as there is so much involved in the process, from getting a mortgage to actually securing the new property. Plus, the further you move, the more intense it all becomes.

One of the biggest hardships of moving home is undeniably the financial strain, which you will feel whether you’re moving to a reasonably priced bungalow in the north of England or a two-bed flat in the centre of the capital. It’s not all about saving money in the short-term, either; the decisions you make when moving home will dictate your future financial status! That being said, here are three tips to save money in the long run when moving home.

1. Speak to a Professional Mortgage Advisor

This first tip is a must. When you move home, you need a mortgage, which involves taking out a large loan that you will pay back, likely over the next 25 years or more. The mortgage you are able to get depends on several factors, such as your credit rating and the deposit you have saved. If you want the best possible deal, don’t try to navigate the mortgage process alone, as it is highly complex and may leave you out of pocket, not only now, but far into your future. An independent mortgage advisor like Everest Mortgages will help you find the most suitable mortgage, locating the best deals on the market while taking into account how much you can borrow. It takes all the time and stress out of it for you.

2. Pay Attention to Necessary Upgrades and Fixes

Unless you are specifically looking for a fixer-upper, you want to choose a property that is in good condition, one that won’t require you to spend thousands of pounds later down the line to fix! When viewing properties, look specifically for maintenance issues such as:

Damp
Mould
Poor water pressure
Missing roof tiles
Gutter blockages
Cracks in walls and ceilings
Old wiring
Strange smells

It’s best to take a list with you so that you don’t forget to check everything while viewing. It’s always better to be thorough early on before committing to any property.

3. Consider Location Carefully and Think About Your Future

Buying a property typically isn’t a short-term deal. It’s an investment that you will likely have for a long time, so don’t only think about what you want now, but also consider how you might feel in the future. Is the location right for you? Location is particularly important, as you should also consider moving to an up-and-coming area where there might be future appreciation. On top of that, ensure you’re moving to a home that can accommodate you and your family for the foreseeable future, as moving home comes with added costs that you don’t want to have to pay again and again.

Moving Home: Be Careful at Every Step

Moving home is not something most people do on a whim. It takes serious time, energy, and consideration, especially for those wanting to make a positive investment and avoid paying too much in the future! By speaking to a mortgage advisor, checking new properties for maintenance issues, and considering the long-term as well as the short-term, you can save yourself a lot of financial stress.

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