Buy Property in Hartlepool | Buying Process | Offers | Solicitors

Buying a property in Hartlepool in very much the same process as buying a house or home in any other town or region of the UK. However, many people are now aware of the new banded term 'HIPS' (Home Information Packs) and are somewhat confused of its need or even how to get one. Read our section on Hips above to learn more about how it will affect you as a buyer and a seller of property in Hartlepool.

With the current financial situation affecting the UK and the rest of the world it is safe to assume that we are most definitely in a 'buyers market'. What does this mean to you?

• Buyers Market - a term used to define an over supply of real estate and and under supply of buyers
• More Choice - more properties to choose from without the the frenzied rush of a sellers market
• Negotiate - the opportunity to haggle with the price and save £££'s
• Capital Growth - buying in a buyers market will ensure that you buy at the lowest possible price which will help your investment to grow over time - buy low and sell high

The buying process basically consists of 3 main areas and can be very simple if you use the services of a qualified solicitor. Malcolm Smith & Co in Victoria Road offer excellent advice and conveyancing services for buyers and sellers. Ask about their dual fee discount for buying and selling together.

1. Finances - work out what you can afford taking into consideration the current and predicated interest rates. Arrange a mortgage in principal upfront so that you know what you can spend. Ensure that you have money aside for solicitors fees, stamp duty if applicable, moving expenses etc.
2. Search - finding the right property can be great fun and should be enjoyed and not stressed over. Agree your budget, criteria and timescale and stick to it - this will help you to eliminate the properties you don't want.
3. Making an Offer - once you have identified the property and have visited it on at least 3 different times of the day you may be ready to make an offer. Try to be constructive with your offer and consider what the main factors are.
   • How long has the property been on the market for sale?
   • Is it a bank or building society repossession?
   • Are there any other interested parties and if so what is their position?
   • How much do you want the property?

The first offer you place may well be rejected but it is better to offer a low price and work up to an agreed price if you have to than to state a higher price and be accepted immediately. You will always wonder if you could have bought it cheaper! Don't be afraid to make them wait for your second offer - don't rush the process.

Once your offer has been accepted and you are happy to proceed then instruct your solicitor with all of the details and lthey will carry out the necessary checks and searches. Malcolm Smith & Co can even arrange for your HIPS package to be carried out.