Ellie and Andy's Story
We saw buying a home as an investment as much as somewhere to live. We anticipate being there a long time, and it's good to know we own it.
Our deposit was vendor gifted. This is where the seller (vendor) pays the deposit for you by way of an allowance against the purchase price. It made things simpler, I think.
Ellie and Andy's thoughts
Don't pay for mortgage advice. Go to an independent advisor who'll earn their fee from the commission their mortgage provider pays them, rather than by charging you. Ask them what commission they're getting for the products they suggest for you, to make sure they're not pushing the one which earns them the most money.
Buying a house is a time-consuming business. Be patient and be organised. It's a tough thing to do if you work full time, but stay on top of it.
And my last point would be twofold. Estate Agents need to be regulated. There's a voluntary scheme they can join but there should be a mandatory one. And Stamp Duty should be abolished. We're taxed enough in this country as it is.
