Make sure your finance IS pre-approved, and ensure you clearly understand what will be required by your financier when the right property is found.
When first starting to look for property, don't rush in and try not to get emotional. Take the time to find out what areas you prefer and why the sale values may vary in different localities.
Make a list of what the important buying criteria will be for you, be it the price or flat land, perhaps village access or that view you have always dreamed of.
Make sure you do your research. The internet is great place to start building knowledge on an area. Also don't be afraid to ask the selling agent about similar and recent sales in the area.
You might also ask an agent to provide you with a list of sales in a street or locality, taking the time to have a drive by them. Most agents would be happy to assist.
Check in with your solicitor and/or conveyancer, find out about their costs and most importantly availability after hours, to avoid delays when you have found your dream home.
Make sure that you contact all the local agents and give them all your details, letting them know exactly what you are looking for and that you are ready to proceed. Remember many properties sell before being advertised.
Take all the time you want when looking for your home, but when you have found the right property, do not delay. To avoid disappointment, it is wise that you act very promptly, remembering it's not your home until the sale contracts have been "exchanged".
Make reasonable offers and you should put them in writing, this ensures that your offer is conveyed to the owner and more importantly illustrates that you are serious about the purchase and not wasting everyone's time.
