Finding a property

You probably already have your dream home in mind, but before you get too excited, you need to make sure that the property you want is actually available and figure out if you can afford it.

Make a wish list

Write down everything you need and want in a property, then check this list against what's available and how much it might cost. This is the most important list you will create during your move, and you should make it with the help of the whole family, including the children.

Some things you might want to consider when making your list include:

Bedrooms

You might need two bedrooms, but want an extra one so you can have a spare room for guests or an office. A third bedroom may be out of your price bracket or not in the right location, in which case consider buying a sofa bed, or creating a study space elsewhere – under the stairs, for example.

Property type

‘Character’ or ‘new-build’ properties frequently command a premium, as do those in prime locations or built to top specifications. Unless you can get a good deal – perhaps the owners are looking for a quick sale – consider an alternative.

A property in need of attention should have a lower asking price than one that's fully renovated, and a place that's two or three years old will be cheaper than one that's brand new and pristine.

Location

The right property in the ‘perfect’ location may be out of your price bracket. As an alternative, buy land to build on or buy a place that needs work.

Or you could become a cash buyer by selling up and moving into a rented house – your money won’t be tied up, so you’ll be ready to snap up a bargain if you find one.

Where to find a property

These days the main way people search for properties is by going online. However the property websites, while useful, don't cover everything that's for sale and aren’t always up-to-date.

Local newspapers and estate agents

It's also wise to search the local newspapers and regularly visit local estate agents (go in, don’t just look in the window) to ask what’s coming on to the market. It’s also a good idea to drive around favourite areas to spot any private ‘for sale’ boards going up.

If you see a particular property or road you like, it can even be worth dropping a polite letter through their door(s) to ask whether the owners are interested in selling.

Private sales and auctions

Search private sales websites and adverts in newspapers and magazines such as Daltons Weekly, Loot and Hot Property. Go to property auctions for a quick completion or a possible bargain, but don’t bid until you’ve had the property surveyed and the legal pack checked by an independent solicitor.

Specialist websites

If you're looking for a specific type of property (such as a barn to convert or a tenanted property to invest in), it’s worthwhile subscribing to specialist websites. Try to get a free trial or a money-back offer in case you aren't happy with the service.

If you don’t find what you want immediately, don’t be disheartened. All the waiting will be worth it once you eventually find the right property at the right price.

For more information buy '' by Kate Faulkner.