Sep
The property market in the UK has seen significant price falls in the last few years. However there are signs that the market has eventually begun to stabilise and many industry experts are forecasting small price increases for many regions. Data published by Zoopla in July stated that average house prices rose by about £5,000 in 2011 with the average home in the united kingdom now costing £216,534. So is now a good time to purchase or should you hold out a little longer? While prices are on their way up once again they are still at lower levels than July last year. Forecasts for 2011 and 2012 vary considerably according to where they come from. Overall the general consensus appears to be that the market will see some small gains but will stay fairly stable. So if you’re thinking of investing in a home I would say do it now. Although prices might not increase much further they’re unlikely to drop and you can find some great deals from many home builders on new houses. if you are entering the market for the very first time here are a handful of tips to help you out. Mortgage and Other Costs Saving a deposit is among the biggest hurdles for most people and one of the reasons why the housing market has been flat during the last few years. The times of 100% or higher home loans are well and truly over. These days most banks and building societies want a 10% deposit to get the best deals. However some 95% home loan deals at competitive rates have started to appear for people with a good credit score. When you’re saving for your first home the deposit is just one of the many expenses you will need to think about. You will also need to think about stamp duty if the property is over a certain value, solicitor’s costs and moving costs. Furnishing your new home and decoration are other expenses you’ll have to meet. Finally it is well worth finding the time to plan for the bills you will have 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 recent lack of activity within the housing market many developers find themselves with a large stock of unsold new homes on their hands. There are some excellent deals available on new homes with lots of developers lowering asking prices by as much as 10%. Many developers are also offering incentives such as free white goods or assistance with finding a deposit. Generally new houses are also less expensive to run and will come with a 10 year guarantee. Shared Ownership The popularity of shared ownership plans has grown significantly in recent years. They allow people to purchase a share in a house that they otherwise would not be able to afford. A mortgage is paid on the portion of the property you own and rent to a housing organization that is the owner of the other share. It is possible to increase the share of the home you own over time so that eventually you are able to own 100% of it. Another option is to consider buying a property with some of your friends. This might appear like an attractive option but can have its downside. Make sure that you use a lawyer to draw up legally binding contracts.
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