Buying your first home is a major milestone and one of the most important financial decisions you’ll ever make. At Lewis Nedas Law, we’ve helped countless first-time buyers navigate the property process with confidence. Over the years, we’ve seen where things can go wrong, and we’re here to help you avoid the most common pitfalls.
Contact our Residential Property Lawyers Today
To speak to one of our Property solicitors, please telephone us on 020 4538 3747 or complete our online enquiry form.
Here are the top mistakes first-time buyers make and how to avoid them.
- Setting an Unrealistic Budget
Many buyers focus solely on the purchase price, unaware of the additional costs involved in a property transaction. These often include:
- Stamp Duty Land Tax
- Legal and Land Registry fees
- Local authority and specialist searches
- Surveyor and valuation costs
- Buildings insurance (required from exchange)
- Removal costs and incidental expenses
We recommend working with a mortgage adviser (if obtaining a mortgage) from the outset to determine a clear and sustainable borrowing range. This will help ensure your dream home is financially viable from day one.
- Delaying Your Mortgage Agreement in Principle
Without a mortgage agreement in principle (AIP), your offer may not be taken seriously, and you may fall in love with a home that’s ultimately unaffordable. An AIP shows agents and sellers that you’re financially prepared and ready to proceed.
At Lewis Nedas Law, we regularly liaise with brokers and lenders and ensure your legal position aligns with your financial arrangements.
- Delay in instructing a Solicitor
You don’t need to wait until your offer is accepted to instruct a solicitor. Early instruction allows us to complete ID checks, prepare initial paperwork, and be ready to act the moment your offer is agreed, saving valuable time.
- Neglecting the Property Survey
A survey is not just a box-ticking exercise, it’s your safeguard against costly surprises like subsidence, dampness, roof defects, or poor construction. Many first-time buyers mistakenly rely on the lender’s valuation, which doesn’t assess the property’s true condition.
We’ll advise when a Homebuyer’s Report or Full Structural Survey is appropriate, depending on the property’s age, construction, and condition.
- Overlooking Available Government Support
Several schemes exist to support first-time buyers, but many purchasers don’t realise they qualify. These include:
- First Homes Scheme – Discounted new builds for local/key workers
- Lifetime ISAs – A 25% government top-up on eligible savings
We understand how these schemes are structured and can guide you through the legal implications and eligibility criteria.
- Failing to Communicate Clearly and Promptly
Buying a home involves coordination between multiple parties’ agents, lenders, solicitors, surveyors, and brokers. Delays in responding to enquiries or submitting documents can derail the process.
At Lewis Nedas Law, we prioritise transparent, consistent communication, keeping you informed at every stage and flagging urgent issues early.
- Skimming Through Legal Documents
Don’t rush through the paperwork. It’s crucial to carefully review documents such as:
- The Title Register
- Lease terms (for leasehold properties)
- Fittings and Contents Form (TA10)
- Seller’s Property Information Form (TA6)
- The Report on Title
We take time to explain your legal position clearly and highlight any risks, such as restrictive covenants, rights of way, or boundary discrepancies and explain any risks of liaising with mortgage lenders and the other party’s solicitor.
Why Choose Lewis Nedas Law?
At Lewis Nedas Law, we combine decades of legal expertise with a modern, client-focused approach. Our residential property team offers:
- Clear, practical legal advice
- Transparent fees from the outset
- Regular updates and responsive support
- Thorough due diligence to protect your investment
Whether you’re buying a London flat or your first family home, we’re here to ensure your purchase is smooth, secure and informed.
Contact our Residential Property Lawyers Today
To get started and make your move with peace of mind, speak to one of our Property solicitors. Please telephone us on 020 4538 3747 or complete our online enquiry form.