Let’s be honest - buying property could hardly be described as a “fun thing to do”. With often months of delays, legal complications and expense, it seems as though hassle and annoyance has been built into every stage of the process. But actually you can make it easier for yourself with a little insider knowledge. Use this handy property guide to solve the first and biggest problem to overcome: finding the right home. At any one time there are hundreds of thousands of houses on the market. The choice might seem overwhelming, but as you’ll know if you’ve ever bought property before, there’s one house out there that’s perfect for you. You’ve just got to find it. Use one of these five main methods to hunt down your dream home. 1) Internet: A great place to find houses. When you are looking for a website, find one which is packed with useful features to help you learn more about a property and its local area before you commit to viewing it. For example, does the website show you where the nearest schools are, or how long it will take to get to the local Post Office or shops? A website with tools like this is essential for home hunting in an area you don’t know. 2) Local newspaper: The papers are still great places to see properties from a specific area. Many papers come with thick property guide supplements which make browsing for properties quick and easy. And you can easily see all the properties currently for sale with specific agents. If you are moving to a new area, search for the newspaper on the web and use their online property portal. Alternatively ring the paper and ask if you can pay to be posted their property guide for a few weeks. 3) Estate agents’ windows: Agents tend to be clumped together in specific parts of town, making it easier for you to get round them quickly. It’s always worth popping into the offices. Not only will they have details of properties that have just come onto the market, but good agents will also give you a hint of homes that they think they will get instructions on soon. And they can take your details to alert you when these homes do go up for sale. In a way you are making their life easy - the estate agent is there to put buyers and sellers together. 4) Estate agents’ boards: If you have found the area you want to live in but not the right property yet, then boards will be your best bet to spot a house before anyone else. It’s not unheard of for prospective buyers to watch a board go up, quickly phone the agent, and get the first viewing within a few hours. Estate agents’ boards also tell you useful information about an area. If a large majority of houses are up for sale - why? Do some local research in nearby streets to find out the gossip. 5) Property auctions: The last tip from this property guide is about a quicker but scarier way to buy a home. Houses are often sold at auctions, just like most other goods. But of course it’s a much bigger sale, and the financial implications are huge if you accidentally buy a house that needs a lot of work. Ensure you fully do your homework before you bid at auction. And get your finances sorted out, as you will be expected to pay a 10 per cent deposit on the day you win an auction and the remainder within just 28 days. For further information please visit our website at http://www.propertytoday.co.uk or ring us on 01733 427177.