The property market in the united kingdom has seen considerable price falls in the last couple of years. However there are indications the market has finally begun to stabilise and many experts are forecasting small price increases for many regions. Information released by Zoopla in July stated that average house prices rose by about £5,000 in 2011 with the typical home in the UK now priced at £216,534.
So if you are a first time buyer is it a good time to go into the market? Whilst prices are on their way up once again they are still at lower levels than July last year. The outlook for the rest of 2011 and early 2012 varies on whom you listen to. Overall the general consensus seems to be the market will see some modest gains but will stay fairly stable. So for first-time buyers I would say now is as good as time as any to enter the market. While prices may not rise much further they’re unlikely to drop and you will find some great deals from many property builders on new homes.
If you’re thinking about buying your first home or flat here are some tips:
Mortgage and Other Expenses
The demand for large deposits by many lenders is one of the principal reasons for the lack of activity in the market. With a lack of new buyers entering the market it’s taking a lot longer for properties to sell. In fact the number of sales in 2010 reached an all time low. However while most lenders still reserve their best deals for people with a 10% or greater deposit there are signs of the restrictions on lending easing. More 95% deals have begun to appear on the market although the interest on them may be slightly higher they’re still competitive.
When you are saving for your first house the deposit is just one of the numerous costs you will need to take into account. You will also need to save for stamp duty, solicitor’s and surveyor’s fees and moving costs. Furnishing your home and decoration are other costs you will have to meet. Finally you will have to budget for bills that will be much larger than in shared accommodation or if you have been living with parents.
New or Used Home?
With the lack of activity in the housing market there are lots of developers with a stock of unsold new houses on their hands. Many developers are offering some great deals and incentives on the properties they have to help them sell faster which can add up to 10% of the asking price. A new property will also be built to much better standards and come with a 10 year warranty. Although a used home might be a little cheaper it’ll cost you more to maintain and heat.
Shared Ownership
The popularity of shared ownership schemes has grown substantially in recent years. They allow people to buy a share in a house that they normally would not be able to afford . A mortgage is paid on the portion of the property you own and rent to a housing organization that owns the other share. It is possible to increase the share of the home you own with time so that ultimately you are able to own 100% of it. Joining a shared ownership scheme means that you do not need to save for years to get a huge deposit and you can get on the property ladder a lot quicker.
Another choice is purchasing with a friend or group of friends. Although this can seem like a good idea it can be fraught with stumbling blocks for the unwary. Ensure that you use a lawyer to draw up legally binding contracts. To find your nearest housing association visit the site today.
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