Your Journey to a New Home
Buying a home is one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make — and whether you’re a first-time buyer, moving up the ladder, or investing, we’re here to make the process smooth, transparent, and stress-free.
Below you’ll find our step-by-step guide to buying property.
1. Understanding Your Budget
Before you start your property search, it’s vital to know what you can afford.
Top tips:
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Speak to a mortgage adviser: Get a mortgage in principle to understand how much you can borrow (we can help you with this).
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Factor in extra costs: Include stamp duty (if applicable), solicitor fees, survey costs, and moving expenses.
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Check your credit score: A healthy score can help you secure better mortgage rates.
Tip: Many Essex buyers find that setting a clear budget early helps narrow the search to realistic and exciting options.
2. Finding Your Ideal Property
Essex offers a fantastic mix of vibrant towns, coastal retreats, and rural charm — from Epping, Ongar, Harlow, Roydon, Chelmsford, Brentwood to Leigh-on-Sea and Saffron Walden.
Consider:
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Commute times and transport links
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Local schools and amenities
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Future development plans in the area
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Lifestyle — city buzz, seaside calm, or countryside views?
Use our Property Search tool to browse the latest homes across Essex, updated daily.
3. Viewing Properties
Once you’ve shortlisted your favourites, it’s time to book some viewings.
When viewing a home:
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Check the property’s condition inside and out
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Ask about age of key features (roof, boiler, windows, etc.)
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Take photos and notes
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Visit at different times of day to get a feel for the area
Top Tip: Don’t be afraid to ask questions — our agents are here to help you make an informed decision.
4. Making an Offer
When you’ve found “the one,” we’ll guide you through making an offer.
We’ll present your offer to the seller and negotiate on your behalf to achieve the best possible outcome.
You’ll need:
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Proof of funds or mortgage in principle
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ID and address verification
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Your solicitor’s details
Once an offer is accepted, the property is marked as “Sold Subject to Contract (SSTC).”
5. Conveyancing & Surveys
At this stage, your solicitor will handle the legal work (known as conveyancing), including:
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Checking property title and searches
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Liaising with the seller’s solicitor
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Managing the exchange of contracts
You should also arrange a homebuyer’s survey to identify any issues before you commit.
6. Exchanging Contracts
This is the point at which the sale becomes legally binding.
You’ll pay your deposit (usually 10% of the purchase price), and a completion date will be set.
7. Completion Day
On the agreed completion date:
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Your solicitor transfers the remaining funds
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The keys are released — and the home is officially yours!
We’ll be there to celebrate your move and hand over the keys to your new Essex home.
8. Settling In
Once you’re in, don’t forget to:
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Take meter readings
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Notify the council and utility companies
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Update your address with banks and services
We can also connect you with local removers, decorators, and tradespeople to help you settle in quickly.
Why Buy with Epps Estates?
- Local Essex expertise
- Friendly, experienced agents
- Transparent communication from start to finish
- A trusted network of solicitors, surveyors & mortgage brokers
Ready to Start Your Search?
Explore our latest properties, or contact our friendly team today for personalised advice on buying your next home.