Nowadays more properties are being listed online than ever before, which means it’s easy to search for a property when it’s convenient for you, even with a hectic lifestyle.

So, assuming you have decided upon your favourite locations and your property requirements (such as number of bedrooms, bathrooms, etc.) and you know your budget – now it’s time to find your ideal home!

Read on for the top property search tips to help you find a house to buy and call home.

Check online listings

You are probably well aware that there are already numerous sites which your local estate agents will list properties on such as Zoopla, Rightmove and OnTheMarket.  These sites allow you to filter properties by area and requirements so you can easily see what is currently available in your area.

You don’t have to be at your computer either.  You can check these websites on the go using your smartphone or tablet.  You can even download their apps and set up notifications.

Sign up for online alerts

As well as searching on the above sites you can set up online alerts so you’ll receive emails automatically when any properties are listed that match your requirements. 

for-sale.com is a property search engine in the UK that finds the best matching properties from several real estate websites such as Zoopla, Prime Location and Rightmove.  For-sale.com allows you to create an account and set up alerts for specific searches. The moment that the real estate ad you are looking for appears on the internet, you are notified by e-mail.

Drive around your desired neighbourhood

Of course searching online is all well and good, but another great tip is to drive around your desired areas to discover ‘for sale’ signs.  Or perhaps even vacant run-down houses if a fixer-upper or project is your aim.

Some estate agents are quite exclusive and you may discover names of estate agents you haven’t heard of before and can then contact to let them know your property search requirements.

If a fixer-upper or huge project is your dream then keep an eye out for obvious vacant properties which look rather dilapidated!

By searching the address online you may be able to find if these types of houses are going to auction and you might be able to grab a bargain.

Sign up to local estate agents

Again, in the online world and its convenience, don’t forget about human contact too.  Pop in to your local estate agents when you get a chance, introduce yourself and let them know your requirements. 

We were able to find our latest property to buy by doing this.  One of our local estate agents let us know about a property just about to hit the market.  This meant we were able to arrange the first viewing before anyone knew about it and secure the sale.

If you are in the process of selling your home, one important step you will need to take is finding a local estate agent to help you with the process. Estate agents are professionals who are trained to handle the sale of a property and can help you navigate the often-complex process of selling a home. Here is a step-by-step guide to signing up with a local estate agent:

1. Research and compare different agents in your area: Start by doing some research on local estate agents in your area. Look for agents who have a good reputation and a track record of successfully selling properties in your area. You may want to ask for recommendations from friends and family, or look online for reviews of different agents. Once you have a list of potential agents, compare their services and fees to determine which one is the best fit for you.
2. Schedule a meeting with the agent: Once you have narrowed down your list of potential agents, schedule a meeting with each one to discuss your needs and get a feel for their personality and style. This is a good opportunity to ask questions about their experience, marketing strategies, and fees. You should also ask about their track record and the average time it takes them to sell a property in your area.
3. Review and sign the agency agreement: If you decide to work with a particular agent, you will need to sign an agency agreement. This is a legally binding contract that outlines the terms of your relationship with the agent, including their fees and the services they will provide. Be sure to carefully review the agreement before signing, and ask for clarification on any points you don’t understand.
4. Prepare your home for sale: Once you have signed the agency agreement, your agent will likely ask you to prepare your home for sale. This may include making any necessary repairs or upgrades, staging the property to make it more appealing to potential buyers, and providing the agent with any necessary documentation. Your agent will work with you to determine the best strategy for selling your home, and will provide you with guidance and support throughout the process.

By following these steps and working closely with a local estate agent, you can be confident that your home will be in good hands as you navigate the process of selling it.

Making human connections in person is sometimes just as important as setting up online alerts! Agents such as eXp Realty will be able to help you find and buy the perfect property without all the hassle. Reducing stress is an important factor in the buying process. Buying a property is one of the biggest purchases of your life and also one of the most complex. Finding the right realty partner for this process is essential.

Property auctions

Auctions are another way of buying a home, and usually a quick way too.  However, most properties that go up for auction are in a really bad state and most have struggled to sell on the open market.  If you are intending to buy a rundown property to renovate, then auctions might be a great way to find a suitable property.

Property auctions can be a great way to buy real estate through a competitive bidding process. They can be an exciting and efficient way to buy or sell a property, as they often result in a sale within a short period of time. Here is a closer look at how property auctions work and some things to consider if you’re thinking of buying or selling a property at auction.

How Property Auctions Work

Property auctions are typically conducted by a professional auctioneer, who oversees the bidding process and ensures that it is conducted fairly. The auctioneer will begin the process by announcing the terms of the sale and the starting bid for the property. Bidders will then have the opportunity to place their bids, and the auctioneer will keep track of the highest bid. The auctioneer will often use a variety of techniques to encourage higher bidding, such as asking for higher bids or announcing that the property is being “sold to the highest bidder.”

Once the auctioneer declares the property “sold,” the winning bidder is required to pay a deposit, typically 10% of the purchase price, and sign a contract to purchase the property. The balance of the purchase price is usually due within a specified period of time, often 30 days.

Types of Property Auctions

There are several different types of property auctions, including:

• Live auctions: These auctions take place in person, and bidders are physically present to place their bids.
• Online auctions: These auctions take place online, and bidders can place their bids from anywhere with an internet connection.
• Sealed bid auctions: In these auctions, bidders submit their highest bid in a sealed envelope, and the highest bidder is declared the winner.
• Absolute auctions: These auctions have no minimum bid and are typically “sold to the highest bidder.”
• Reserve auctions: These auctions have a minimum bid, called a “reserve price,” that must be met for the property to be sold. If the reserve price is not met, the property will not be sold.

Things to Consider When Buying a Property at Auction

If you’re considering buying a property at auction, there are a few things you should keep in mind:

• Research the property thoroughly: Before you bid on a property, it’s important to do your homework. You should research the property’s history, condition, and location to get a sense of what you’re buying. You should also consult with a real estate agent or lawyer to get more information about the property.
• Know the terms of the sale: Make sure you understand the terms of the sale, including the deposit and the timeline for paying the balance of the purchase price. You should also be aware of any contingencies or conditions that must be met before the sale can be completed.
• Be prepared to pay in cash: Many auctions require bidders to pay a deposit and the balance of the purchase price in cash. Be sure you have the necessary funds available before you bid.
• Be ready to act quickly: Property auctions move quickly, and you may need to make a decision on the spot. Be prepared to act quickly if you’re interested in a particular property.

Let friends and family know

If your friends, family and even colleagues know you are house hunting, then it’s possible they know someone who is soon putting their house on the market and it might be suitable.  Again, this can help you be first in the line when a new property comes on the market!

Developers websites and show homes

If you’d like a new home, or would consider it, then check out local new-build developers websites to see plans for new developments and properties.

If there are developments in progress then check out their sales offices and showrooms.

Final thoughts

Whilst searching online is a great way to view properties and find your dream home, don’t forget about the power of conversation and making in-person connections too.  Also consider auctions or developer websites if you have a particular type of property in mind to purchase.