The 7 non-negotiables that should be on every first-time buyer’s list

Buying a home may be the biggest investment you’ll ever make, but it should also be the best. Taking that first tentative step onto the property ladder is a nervous time for any would-be buyer, whether you’re buying solo or have a family that you need to find a suitable home for.

Before you even start your search, organising your wants and needs as a property buyer is vital. You’ll want to ensure that the property you commit to buying will work for your requirements, not just now but into the future.

Your property search is certain to open your eyes when it comes to just how realistic your list of first home wants and needs are, but there are some things on your tick list that you just shouldn’t budge on.

In this blog post, we reveal the seven non-negotiables that should be on every first-time buyer’s list.

1. Central heating

It goes without saying that staying warm and preferably dry are of course musts within any home. Central heating installation or replacement represents a significant investment that most first time buyers won’t want to foot the bill for.

Whether the home you have your eye on is a new build or ‘doer-upper’, ensuring it has central heating and that this system is either newly installed or well-maintained is crucial.

2. Double glazing

Just like central heating installation, having new double glazed windows fitted can seriously dent your home improvement budget. It is a great investment, however, particularly if you are upgrading from single glazed units. According to this study, 47% of buyers identified single glazed windows as a property turn-off.

The energy efficiency of our homes matters more than ever. As well as taking note of the property’s Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), check the condition and efficiency of its windows and doors.

3. Outdoor space

We’re not talking acres here, any outdoor space is, and should be, a major consideration for first time buyers.

The Covid-19 pandemic really put the importance of outdoor space at home into perspective. As a result, it now sits highly on every property buyer’s list of priorities. Purchasing a property with accessible outdoor space is also an investment for the future, especially if you live in an urban area like London, as Property Reporter details:

“Previous research has found that the addition of garden space can boost a property’s value by as much as 20%. Based on the current average London house price of £494,673, that’s an increase of nearly £100,000 (£98,935)… Even a shared roof terrace can boost appeal, with an average increase of 8% adding almost £40,000 to the value of the average London apartment.”

4. Parking

Parking – or better yet, a driveway or garage – is another non-negotiable, particularly if you use your vehicle regularly. If the property doesn’t have a garage or driveway, or access to free on-street parking, beware, this could add to your monthly expenses.

Residential parking permits vary in cost depending on your property’s location and vehicle type, and may not always guarantee a parking space close to your home.

5. Natural light

An abundance of natural light is rated as vital for many property buyers, with some even willing to pay more for a home that’s flooded with natural light, and for good reason.

Natural light doesn’t just make a home more pleasant to live in, it’s essential to your health and wellbeing.

6. Plenty of storage

Whatever stage of life you’re at, you’re going to need storage space. When viewing, be sure to keep an eye out for cluttered spaces and bursting cupboards, it could save you a lot of heartache (and decluttering) in the future.

7. Location

As property power couple Phil and Kirstie will tell you, property buying is all about location. Gain a full view of a potential property’s location, taking note of its crime levels and public transport links.

You should also take a glimpse into what the future of your shortlisted location could look like. Is it an up-and-coming area? Are there any developments or transport improvements in the pipeline? Finding the answers to these questions could make your first time buy a fantastic investment. 

Looking to buy your very first home? Let us help you get onto the property ladder with ease. Speak to our advisors today to discuss your lending options.

Image: Andy Dean Photography / Shutterstock.com