The housing industry in the UK has been in a state of turmoil for the last couple of years. However it appears like the market has eventually stabilised and many areas are beginning to see prices climb slightly. Data published by Zoopla in July stated that average house prices increased by about £5,000 in 2011 with the typical home in the united kingdom now costing £216,534.
So is now a great time to buy if you are a first-time buyer? Although there have been some gains prices are still lower than they were at the same time a year ago. The forecast for the rest of 2011 and early 2012 varies on whom you listen to. However many experts are of the opinion that the market will stay flat or see small price rises. So if you are thinking of investing in a home I would say do it now. Prices are not likely to drop and there are some excellent deals available on new homes.
If you are thinking about purchasing your first home or flat here are some tips:
Mortgage and Other Costs
Saving a 10% or even bigger deposit usually takes years and is one reason for the recent lack of activity within the housing marketplace. The days of 100% or higher mortgages are well and truly over. Nowadays most financial institutions and building societies demand a 10% deposit to obtain the best deals. However more 95% deals have started to appear during the last few months in particular for those who have excellent credit scores.
A deposit is needless to say just one of the many things that you will have to save for. You will also need to think about stamp duty when the property is over a certain value, solicitor’s fees and moving costs. Furnishing your home and decoration are other costs you’ll need to meet. Finally it’s worth taking the time to budget for the bills you will need to pay each month.
New or Used Home?
If you’re thinking about buying a property should you choose a new or a used one? With the present state of the housing marketplace there is a big stock of new properties that developers wish to sell. There are some great deals available on new houses with lots of developers lowering asking prices by as much as 10%. Many developers are also offering incentives like free white goods or assistance with finding a deposit. New build houses will also have a free 10 year warranty from the builder and are much cheaper to run and maintain.
Shared Ownership
The popularity of shared ownership plans has grown significantly in recent years. They enable people to purchase a share in a home which 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 owns the other share. You can increase the share of the home you own over time so that eventually you are able to own 100% of it.
Another choice is purchasing with a friend or group of friends. Although this can seem like a good option it can be fraught with stumbling blocks for the unwary. Always use a solicitor to draw up agreements and ensure that everyone knows their obligations and responsibilities.
To find your nearest housing association visit the site today.