Predicting which way the UK property market is going is not easy. The last few years have seen many industry experts make strong claims about recovery that never really materialised. However it finally looks like the recovery is on the way for many parts of the country. Many regions have seen small cost increases in 2011 with £5,000 being added to the value of the average property. So if you are a first time buyer is it a good time to go into the market? While prices are on their way up once again they are still at lower levels than July a year ago. Predictions for 2011 and 2012 vary considerably according to where they come from. The overall consensus is that prices will increase a little or stay flat. So if you’re thinking of investing in a home I’d say do it now. While prices might not rise much further they’re unlikely to drop and you will get some good deals from many home builders on new houses. If you are thinking of buying your first home in the near future here are a couple of quick tips to help you out.
Mortgage and Other Costs
The requirement for big deposits has slowed down activity within the housing market significantly. With relatively few new buyers entering the market the number of houses sold reached a record low in 2010. However while most loan providers still reserve their best deals for those 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 and while the interest on them may be a little higher they’re still competitive. When you are saving for your house there are many other costs you need to think about as well as the deposit. You’ll have to pay for stamp duty, solicitor’s fees, surveyor’s fees and also land registry expenses. You’ll also have to furnish your new house and pay for all of the bills. This can be quite an increase in your monthly budget if you’ve been living with your parents or in shared accommodation. New or Used Home? If you are thinking about buying a house should you choose a new or a used one? With the recent lack of activity within the housing market many developers find themselves with a big stock of unsold new houses on their hands. There are some excellent deals available on new houses with lots of developers reducing asking prices by as much as 10%. Many developers are offering incentives including free white goods or help with finding a deposit. New build houses will also include a free 10 year warranty from the builder and are much cheaper to run and look after.
Shared Ownership
The popularity of shared ownership schemes has grown considerably in recent years. They enable people to purchase 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 association that is the owner of the other share. It is possible to increase the share of the property you own with time so that ultimately you can own 100% of it. Another choice is purchasing with a friend or group of friends. This might appear like an attractive option but can have its downside. Always use a lawyer to draw up agreements to make sure that everyone knows their duties and responsibilities.
Find the best new homes Edinburgh with What House?
