How to Find and Buy Your Dream Home
Finding your dream home is one of life’s most exciting milestones—and we’re here to make sure it’s also one of the smoothest. Whether you’re stepping onto the property ladder, looking for more space, or searching for a peaceful place to retire, we’ll guide you every step of the way.
Here’s everything you need to know about buying your dream home, and how we make it simple, transparent, and enjoyable.
1. Understanding What You’re Looking For
Every great property search starts with a conversation. We’ll take the time to get to know you—your preferences, your priorities, your must-haves and your non-negotiables.
Whether it’s a garden for the kids, space for a home office, great schools nearby or walking distance to town, we want to know what matters most to you. That way, we can tailor our search and help you zero in on the right properties quickly.
2. Sorting Out Your Finances
Before you fall in love with a property, it’s important to know what you can afford. We recommend speaking with a mortgage advisor early in the process to secure an Agreement in Principle. This gives you clarity on your budget and shows sellers you’re serious.
We’ll also ask for the following documents when you’re ready to make an offer:
Proof of ID (passport or photo driving licence)
Proof of address
Proof of funds (bank statements or mortgage agreement)
Having these ready speeds up the process and gives you a competitive edge.
3. Exploring the Market
Once we know your budget and preferences, we’ll begin arranging viewings—either virtual or in person. As local experts, we’ll also keep you updated with off-market opportunities and new listings the moment they become available.
We’ll accompany you to viewings and help you assess each property—not just the features, but also things like local amenities, transport links, and resale potential.
4. Making an Offer
When you’ve found the one, we’ll help you submit an offer to the seller.
We’ll advise on how best to position your offer based on market conditions and your buying position. Once the offer is accepted, we collect the necessary paperwork from both sides and request solicitor details to get the legal process underway.
5. Instructing Your Solicitor
Once your offer is accepted, both you and the seller formally instruct solicitors. Your solicitor will send you a letter of engagement that sets out their terms and fees. You’ll also need to complete ID checks at this stage.
Meanwhile, the seller’s solicitor prepares key documents including:
Fixtures & Fittings form
Property Information form
Title deeds
Mortgage details (if applicable)
Your solicitor will review the draft contract, carry out local authority searches, and submit your mortgage application if you haven’t already.
6. Enquiries and Checks
Once your solicitor receives the paperwork from the seller’s side, they will raise any initial enquiries to clarify details and ensure there are no legal surprises.
During this time:
Searches are carried out (local authority, environmental, etc.)
You receive your official mortgage offer
You’ll be updated regularly about what’s happening and what comes next
If you have any concerns about the property—now is the time to raise them.
7. Exchange of Contracts
Once all the paperwork is in order, both you and the seller agree on a completion date. At this point:
You pay your deposit to your solicitor
Both sides sign contracts
Contracts are formally exchanged—this is when the purchase becomes legally binding
You’re nearly there!
8. Final Steps & Preparation
Your solicitor will now request the funds from your mortgage lender (if applicable) and prepare for completion.
They’ll also send a completion statement so you know exactly what needs to be paid and when.
Your seller’s solicitor will prepare a transfer deed that you’ll need to sign before the big day.
9. Completion Day 🎉
It’s the moment you’ve been waiting for! On completion day:
The remaining balance is paid by your solicitor to the seller’s solicitor
The seller vacates the property and hands over the keys—usually via us
You officially become the new owner!
We’ll be there to hand you the keys and congratulate you in person. 🏡
10. After the Sale
Your solicitor will handle the final steps:
Paying any stamp duty due to HMRC
Registering your ownership with the Land Registry
Providing you with official documents including your title deed
You’re now a homeowner—congratulations!
Why work with Mace Estates?
Here’s why hundreds of buyers trust us to help them find their dream home:
✅ Local knowledge and insider tips
✅ Early access to new listings
✅ Friendly support and expert advice
✅ Clear, honest communication
✅ We’ll never pressure you—just guide you
Ready to start your search?
Let’s find your dream home together. Get in touch today and take the first step.