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Our dedicated team will be on hand every step of the way to ensure buying property is as stress free as possible
Buying a property is a big decision, whether you are a first-time buyer, moving up the property ladder or you are buying properties for investment.
Our dedicated team offers practical and personalised legal advice. You will be given a named member of staff as your main point of contact who will keep you updated at all important stages throughout the transaction, using your preferred method of communication.
See our 'buying a property' flow chart, which takes you through the stages of the conveyancing process.
Advice for buyers:
Know the true costs and set a budget - Don’t just save for a deposit; budget for the whole buying process including surveys, searches, land registry, mortgage arrangement and legal fees, stamp duty, removal and furnishing costs and any potential repairs. And, if you’re buying a leasehold property, remember to factor in service charges and ground rent. From the outset, we provide you with a breakdown of costs, which include our fixed fee legal costs together with any third-party payments, such as Land Registry fees, stamp duty land tax and search fees. There are no hidden costs with us; what we quote is what you will pay.
Get an ‘Agreement in Principle’ before making an offer. Talk to a mortgage adviser about mortgage deals, then get an 'agreement in principle' from a mortgage lender – it could give you the edge on buyers without one.
Consider your options - if you are a first time buyer, it’s well worth exploring the government’s first time buyer initiatives.
Appoint an experienced lawyer - a good lawyer will manage the legal side of house buying and ensure everything goes smoothly.
Get first dibs – ask local estate agents to call when suitable properties are about to come onto the market, that way you can book one of the first viewings.
Ask questions – find out as much as you can about the area and the property, including how many viewings and offers it has had. This can be very helpful when it comes to negotiating.
Be realistic about timings – local searches can take up to 20 weeks and if you’re in a chain, not everyone will be ready when you are.
Commission a full property survey – This is different to a valuation survey and will flag up any problems that could cost you later down the line. Your lender may require you to use a specific surveyor.
Get insured – find a comprehensive building insurance policy without any onerous restrictions which can be imposed if, for example, you’re purchasing in a flood risk area.
Draw up a Will – Writing up a will can be stressful and scary. If you pass away, you'll want your assets (including your home) to be distributed to your loved one. Battens' Private Client team can assist with this.
FAQs
What are some Top Tips when buying a house?
There are many hurdles to jump when you’re purchasing a new home.
- Know the true costs and set a budget. Don’t just save for a deposit; budget for the whole buying process including surveys, searches, land registry, mortgage arrangement and legal fees, stamp duty, removal and furnishing costs and any potential repairs. And, if you’re buying a leasehold property, remember to factor in service charges and ground rent.
- Get an ‘Agreement in Principle’ before making an offer. Talk to a mortgage adviser about mortgage deals, then get an 'agreement in principle' from a mortgage lender – it could give you the edge on buyers without one.
- Consider your options - if you are a first time buyer, it’s well worth exploring the government’s first time buyer initiatives.
- Appoint an experienced lawyer - a good lawyer will manage the legal side of house buying and ensure everything goes smoothly.
- Get first dibs – ask local estate agents to call when suitable properties are about to come onto the market, that way you can book one of the first viewings.
- Ask questions – find out as much as you can about the area and the property, including how many viewings and offers it’s had - it helps when it comes to negotiating.
- Be realistic about timings – local searches can take up to 18 weeks and if you’re in a chain, not everyone will be ready when you are.
- Commission a full property survey – it's different to a valuation survey and will flag up any problems that could cost you later down the line. Your lender may require you to use a specific surveyor.
- Get insured – find a comprehensive building insurance policy with no onerous restrictions they can impose if, for example, you’re purchasing in a flood risk area.
- Draw up a Will – if you die, you'll want your assets (including your home) to be distributed to your loved one. Ask a lawyer to help you draw up a legally binding will.
“My girlfriend and I used Emma Taylor in Yeovil for the purchase of our first house. Emma was very helpful and was always happy to answer any questions that we had. As first time buyers, we were completely clueless about the process however, Emma guided us through every step of the way. When Emma went on holiday Ross Siviter took over the file and we were so pleased with the work that he did whilst Emma was away.
We would definitely use Battens again and would recommend this firm to our family and friends.”
“Top professional work of the highest standard and ability from Ross Siviter. Super efficient. Couldn't have been better.”
“Lucy was the most professional and approachable solicitor I have used. Moving house can be so stressful but not if Lucy does your conveyancing.”
“Brilliant service, couldn’t speak any higher of Tina and Cathy. Professional and friendly what more could you ask for.”
“Cate, was incredibly professional and friendly. She worked diligently on our conveyancing case and kept us informed throughout the process. Her eye for detail is impeccable. We're very satisfied with the service we've received from battens. Can't thank her enough for her service.”
“Throughout the entire conveyancing process, Naomi provided an excellent & efficient service dealing with any queries as they arose & keeping us well informed on progress being made. This turned a potentially stressful event into one that ran smoothly from start to finish. I'd have no hesitation in recommending Naomi to anyone who is looking to buy or sell a property.”
“Jason was fantastic! As first time buyers, we were largely unaware of the process, however, Jason kept us up to date every step of the way. I’ve got to say, Jason made everything so clear and simple that I’m now confused as to how family/friends found their purchases stressful! I’ll be recommending Jason to anyone that mentions they’re looking to buy or sell their home!”
