Bought a home recently? Tips on buying

We have bought 6 properties in the last couple of quarters, and have just completed on another 2 this week. As a professional landlord that buys and rents properties, here are my thoughts:

1. Research the local market intimately to learn fair prices in your area. Know which street fetches more than the others
2. Target motivated sellers for better negotiation and remember the three Ds to find deals: Death, Divorce and Debt
3. Identify property flaws as leverage for a lower offer
4. Always be willing to walk away if the deal isn't favourable
5. Keep your budget and limits completely private during your negotiations. Poker face.
6. Cash buyers always have an advantage; show your financial strength
7. Consider professional representation for expert guidance and play fair but go hard

Finally, negotiate strategically, stay calm, and build relationships with local estate agents. Show them that you can perform when others get cold feet. You never know who might bring you the next deal.

Hi, I have recently sold and bought this year, completed back in April. Happy to talk about how we offered and we actually split the chain as we had a great buyer.

I recently went through the lengthy and often stressful process of buying my first home, and I would definitely describe the experience as something of a rollercoaster, though I'm so glad we got there in the end.

Being self-employed, I had to face a lot of hurdles when it came to obtaining a mortgage and fulfilling all the necessary paperwork, which often felt highly unfair compared to the requirements of someone who is employed by someone else.

Thankfully, I had a fantastic mortgage advisor who provided me with invaluable support every step of the way. Even in times of despair, they were always on hand to combat every challenge and refusal, and creatively get the sale back on track.

Without their help, I am certain I wouldn't have managed to buy this house. So for others struggling, my advice is definitely to get a trusted mortgage advisor with good reviews or recommendations from friends and family - their expertise more than makes up for any costs associated with them.

We recently downsized and moved to another town. Here are some observations:
Every broker should move house every 5 years to refresh their memory of what it's like.
Anything official record it and store it -- even trees falling into your garden...
Don’t use the cheapest solicitor, that person or firm will become your most important friend for the next six weeks
Accept nothing at face value “We are paying cash. We want to do it quickly. There is no chain".
Organise moving firm early.
If you are downsizing prepare for many tip and charity shop visits.
When buying a house try to ensure you understand the neighbours and neighbourhood.
• Be prepared that you may not have broadband from day 1 at your new home
• Your vendor may not do all he/she promised to the house before they leave

Our sale and purchase were fairly smooth, but we know plenty of people who've had experiences that make you have to sit down for a bit. And it's worth saying: expect the unexpected!