If you already own a home and need the equity towards your onwards move putting it on the market first puts you in the strongest position marketing it for sale . You’ll avoid pressure, free up your equity, and be ready to move swiftly when you find the right property.

Before you start browsing, let’s dig into why you’re buying.

• Do you need a comfortable space for family living, or a home that’s future-proof for multi-gen living?
• Will you run a business from home? Entertain often?
• What are the must-haves (school catchment, garden, parking, accessibility) versus nice-to-haves?
By defining true needs, you widen your search wisely and avoid chasing the wrong options.

If you’re using a mortgage, speak to a mortgage broker and get an Agreement in Principle now.
If you’re paying cash or from a sale, we’ll ask for proof of funds. Having this sorted early shows you’re serious and gives you negotiating strength.

Selecting a local solicitor or conveyancer with experience in Tameside property transactions makes all the difference. Good communication between your adviser, our team, and your lender keeps things moving smoothly, we can recommend if you need us too.

Come visit our Tameside office or chat over a coffee — building a relationship with us helps us match you faster.
 When viewing:

• Make sure you’re viewing needs, not just current wants.
• Consider areas just outside your target postcode; you might get more value with similar features.
• Be ready to act when you find the right one.

Once you’ve found the property you’re sure about:

• Understand the seller’s position and timelines.
• Clearly state your offer, your funding status, and your flexibility.
• Be responsive. Being ready and available helps keep your offer at the front of the pack.

Offer accepted? Great—now it’s time to move fast:

• Instruct your solicitor immediately; start the paperwork and request searches.
• If using a mortgage, finalise your application now.
• If using funds from sale make sure everyone in the chain is at the same stage, the best way to do this is minimise how many parties are involved
• If paying cash, organise any surveys so you’re not delayed.

Buying a property often takes around 12-16 weeks from offer to completion. It can be quicker, but unexpected delays happen.

We’ll help you manage key dates, coordinate all parties, and keep everything on track.