Home buying guides
Everything you need to know, written in plain English. From saving your deposit to picking up the keys.
How to Negotiate a House Price
Effective price negotiation is evidence-based, not tactical. Here's how to build your case and what to say to the estate agent.
4 min read →
GuideHow to Choose a Conveyancing Solicitor
Choosing the cheapest solicitor is often the most expensive decision you make. Here's what to look for, what to ask, and when to switch.
4 min read →
GuideExchange of Contracts Explained
Exchange is when buying a house stops being a conversation and becomes a legal commitment. Here's exactly what it means and what happens next.
3 min read →
GuideWhat Happens on Completion Day?
Completion day is the day money transfers and keys are released. Here's what happens hour by hour, and what to do the moment you're in.
3 min read →
GuideFirst-Time Buyer Schemes 2026: What's Available
Help to Buy is closed, but several schemes remain available to first-time buyers in 2026. Here's what exists, how it works, and who it's best for.
4 min read →
GuideWhat Survey Do I Need When Buying a House?
A Level 2 HomeBuyer Report is right for most Manchester purchases. Here's what each survey level includes, when to upgrade, and how to use the findings.
4 min read →
GuideLeasehold vs Freehold: What's the Difference?
Freehold means you own the property outright. Leasehold means you own a lease — the right to live there for a set period. Both come with very different implications.
4 min read →
GuideHow to Make an Offer on a House
Making an offer starts with evidence, not instinct. Here's how to research comparable prices, frame your offer, and handle sealed bids.
4 min read →
GuideStamp Duty for First-Time Buyers
First-time buyers pay no stamp duty on properties up to £425,000. Here's how it works, how to calculate it, and what the rules are for shared ownership.
3 min read →
GuideThe Full Cost of Buying a House
The deposit is only the beginning. Here's a complete breakdown of every cost involved in buying a home — so nothing catches you off guard.
4 min read →
GuideWhat Is Conveyancing?
Conveyancing is the legal process of buying and selling property. Your solicitor checks everything is as it should be before you hand over your money.
5 min read →
GuideHow Much Deposit Do You Need to Buy a House?
5% gets you through the door; 10% opens better deals. Here's exactly what deposit size means for your mortgage rate, monthly payments, and total cost.
4 min read →
GuideWhat Is a Mortgage in Principle?
A mortgage in principle tells you roughly how much a lender will offer you. It takes 20 minutes to get and makes estate agents take you seriously.
4 min read →
GuideHow Long Does Buying a House Take?
From offer accepted to keys in hand, most purchases take 12–20 weeks. Here's what happens at each stage and what causes delays.
4 min read →
GuideFirst-Time Buyer Guide: Manchester 2026
The complete guide to buying your first home in Manchester — from saving your deposit to picking up the keys.
6 min read →