Buying a property is likely to be one of the most expensive purchases you will make and be one of the most stressful times, so it is best to be well prepared. There are many hurdles to be overcome during the process and with some prior research beforehand many of these can easily be avoided.

 Some tips to consider:

1. Know how much you can borrow - A visit to a mortgage broker or your bank will let you know how much you can borrow by way of a pre-approved mortgage, so that when you find your dream home, you have done the groundwork and know an approximate price range within which to make an initial offer!
2. Research the area – It is good to consider this point although often you may only consider looking at properties in the west and end up buying in the east. Some of the points to consider are the commute to and from town, location of schools, bus routes, and proximity to shops.‍
3. Wish list – Most people have a wish list of points that their new or next property must have and some have a wish list of points that the new or next property may have. Take some time to prioritise which points are important and not to be compromised and which points may be negotiable.
4. Property to sell? - If you have a property to sell you need to make sure that you have it on the market at the same time as you are looking for your next home. Good advice to avoid disappointment would be to put it on the market before you start looking just in case you find something that you really like but have not yet secured a buyer for your property.‍
5. ‍‍Ensure you have all relevant planning consents and warranties available – If you have a property to sell make sure you have all the documentation that your lawyer will require to give to the future purchasers’ lawyer, such as planning consents, building consents or warranties, so that when a buyer has been found there won’t be any last minute delays as this may result in delaying or even losing the sale.‍‍
6. ‍Ensure your documents are up to date – When instructing an estate agent, lawyer or engaging a mortgage broker, you will need up to date photographic ID, proof of home address (not more than three months out of date and not a mobile phone bill) and source of funds, so make sure that your driving licence or passport are completely up to date. Failure to do so will inevitably delay the process.‍‍
7. ‍Ensure you have an up to date Registration Card - Under The Control of Housing and Work Law you will need to ensure that you have an up to date registration card showing your residential status. Further information can be found on the States of Jersey website at www.gov.je/registrationcards