A Step-by-Step Guide for First-Time Buyers, Upsizers & Investors
Our Promise to Buyers
At MA-Residential, we understand that buying a property is one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make.
Whether you’re stepping onto the ladder for the first time, moving to accommodate a growing family, or investing in a future asset, our mission is to guide you with clarity, integrity and expert local knowledge.
We’re not just here to show you properties. We’re here to help you make the right decision.
That means honest advice, detailed answers, and calm guidance throughout.
What to Expect from Us
- A genuine interest in what you’re looking for, not just a script.
- Prompt updates on relevant new instructions.
- Flexible viewings that respect your time.
- Local insights, not just property specs.
- Clear advice around value, timing, and negotiation.
We believe buying should feel exciting, not stressful, and definitely never rushed.
The Buying Process Step-by-Step
1. Budget & Mortgage - Speak to a mortgage adviser or broker early to understand your budget and obtain a mortgage in principle.
2. Register Your Search - Let us know what you’re looking for. The more detail the better, including budget, preferred location, number of bedrooms, style, outdoor space, and timeframe.
3. Property Viewings - We’ll schedule viewings at times that suit you and share honest feedback about each property’s condition, history and potential.
4. Making an Offer - When you find the right place, we’ll help you submit a competitive yet sensible offer based on current market conditions.
5. Offer Accepted - We prepare a Memorandum of Sale and liaise with your solicitor and mortgage provider to get the legal and financial process moving.
6. Conveyancing - Your solicitor conducts searches, raises enquiries and reviews all legal aspects of the sale. We keep the chain moving.
7. Mortgage Valuation & Survey - Your lender will carry out a valuation. You may also wish to instruct a more detailed HomeBuyer or Building Survey.
8. Exchange of Contracts - Once legal work is complete and your mortgage is confirmed, contracts are exchanged and your deposit is paid.
9. Completion - On the agreed completion date, funds are transferred, keys are released, and the property is yours.
Legal & Financial Guidance
We always recommend:
Step-by-Step Conveyancing Process
Once your offer is accepted, your solicitor will begin the conveyancing process, the legal work involved in transferring ownership of a property. Here’s how it typically works:
1. Instruct your solicitor - Appoint a solicitor or licensed conveyancer immediately after your offer is accepted.
2. Complete initial forms - Your solicitor will send a client care letter and request proof of ID and address for anti-money laundering checks.
3. Review the draft contract - The seller’s solicitor prepares a draft contract pack with legal title, EPC, and property information forms (TA6, TA10, etc.).
4. Searches – Your solicitor carries out local authority, water/drainage, environmental and other relevant searches to check for restrictions or risks.
5. Raise enquiries - Based on the contract and search results, your solicitor raises enquiries with the seller’s solicitor for further clarification.
6. Report to you - Once all information is in hand, your solicitor sends a detailed report outlining everything you need to know before proceeding.
7. Mortgage offer issued - Your lender will finalise and send a formal mortgage offer to you and your solicitor.
8. Sign contracts & agree completion date - You sign the final contract and agree a date for completion, usually 1–2 weeks after exchange.
9. Exchange of contracts - Contracts are formally exchanged, and your deposit (typically 10%) is paid.
10. Completion - On the agreed day, the balance is transferred, and you receive the keys to your new home.
Having a proactive, communicative solicitor can make all the difference. We’re always on hand to coordinate the process and keep everyone informed.
Using an independent mortgage broker if you’re unsure where to start.
We’re happy to suggest trusted solicitors and brokers we’ve worked with, people who communicate clearly and act efficiently.
Tips for First-Time Buyers
- Understand all costs: mortgage deposit, stamp duty, solicitors’ fees, surveys, removals.
- Be prepared to move quickly when the right property appears, delays can cost you a deal.
- Stay in regular contact with your solicitor and mortgage broker.
- Ask questions, there’s no such thing as a silly one.
What to Check Before You Buy
- Leasehold vs Freehold: Understand the tenure and obligations.
- Length of Lease: A lease under 80 years can affect mortgageability.
- Service Charges & Ground Rent: Check for affordability and escalations.
- EPC Rating: This affects running costs and long-term value.
- Cladding/EWS1 (for flats): Especially important in newer or taller buildings.
- Building Safety Act: Relevant for certain developments, ask your solicitor.
Why MA-Residential?
We’re independent, local and buyer-focused.
We don’t just sell property, we build long-term relationships and we’re happy to help even if you’re early in your journey.
Our team knows South London inside out, and we’re never afraid to offer straight-talking advice to help you make informed choices.
Let’s Start Your Search
Whether you’re actively hunting or just getting your bearings, we’d love to help you take the next step. No pressure. Just good advice and properties that genuinely match your needs.
MA-Residential
020 8264 4464
hello@ma-residential.com
www.ma-residential.com
1st floor Romer House, 132 Lewisham High Street, London, SE13 6EE
“Customers may forget what you said, but they’ll never forget how you made them feel.”
