Question 1

How do I know what I can afford?

Accepted Answer

Start by speaking to a mortgage broker or your bank to get a mortgage in principle. This gives you a clear borrowing limit based on your income and outgoings. Don't forget to budget for additional costs like stamp duty, solicitor fees, survey costs, and removal expenses on top of your deposit.

Question 2

What is a mortgage in principle?

Accepted Answer

A mortgage in principle (MIP) is a written statement from a lender confirming how much they'd be willing to lend you, based on a soft credit check and basic financial information. It shows sellers you're a serious buyer and helps you focus your search on properties within your budget. It's not a formal mortgage offer, but it's an important first step.

Question 3

Do I need a solicitor to buy a property?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You'll need a conveyancing solicitor (or licensed conveyancer) to handle the legal side of the purchase. They'll carry out property searches, review the contract, manage the transfer of funds, and register the property in your name. We can recommend local solicitors if you need one.

Question 4

How long does it take to buy a property?

Accepted Answer

From offer accepted to completion typically takes 8–12 weeks, though it can be faster or slower depending on the chain, mortgage processing times, and how quickly solicitors work. We'll keep you updated throughout and chase things up on your behalf.

Question 5

What is stamp duty and do I have to pay it?

Accepted Answer

Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) is a tax paid when you buy a property in England. First-time buyers pay no stamp duty on properties up to £425,000. Above that, rates apply on the portion over the threshold. Use our free stamp duty calculator on the First-Time Buyers page to see exactly what you'd pay.

Question 6

How do you value my property?

Accepted Answer

We carry out a free, no-obligation valuation based on recent comparable sales in your area, current market conditions, and the specific features of your property. We'll give you an honest figure — not an inflated one designed to win your business.

Question 7

How long will it take to sell my property?

Accepted Answer

This depends on the local market, your asking price, and the condition of the property. In active markets, well-priced properties can sell within days. We'll give you a realistic expectation based on current conditions in your area.

Question 8

What costs are involved in selling?

Accepted Answer

You'll typically pay estate agent fees (usually a percentage of the sale price), solicitor/conveyancing fees, and potentially an EPC if you don't have a valid one. There's no stamp duty to pay when selling. We'll be upfront about all costs before you commit to anything.

Question 9

Do I need an EPC to sell my property?

Accepted Answer

Yes. An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is a legal requirement when selling a property. It's valid for 10 years. If you don't have one, we can arrange it for you.

Question 10

How do you find tenants?

Accepted Answer

We market your property across major property portals and our own network, conduct accompanied viewings, and carry out thorough referencing checks — including credit history, employment verification, and previous landlord references — before recommending a tenant.

Question 11

How much rent can I charge?

Accepted Answer

We'll advise you on the right rental price based on comparable properties in your area and current demand. Pricing too high leads to void periods; pricing too low leaves money on the table. We'll help you find the sweet spot.

Question 12

What happens if a tenant doesn't pay rent?

Accepted Answer

If you're on our full management service, we'll chase any late payments on your behalf and keep you informed. In serious cases, we'll advise on the legal options available, including serving the appropriate notices.

Question 13

Do I need a gas safety certificate?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If your property has any gas appliances, you're legally required to have a Gas Safety Certificate issued by a Gas Safe registered engineer every year. We can arrange this as part of our management service.

Question 14

What does full property management include?

Accepted Answer

Our full management service covers tenant finding and referencing, tenancy agreement preparation, deposit registration, rent collection, maintenance coordination, regular property inspections, tenancy renewals, rent reviews, and legal compliance management. Essentially, we handle everything so you don't have to.

Question 15

How do I know what's happening with my property?

Accepted Answer

You'll receive monthly statements showing rent received and any deductions. We'll contact you whenever something requires your approval or attention, and you can reach us any time with questions.

Question 16

Can I switch to your management service if I already have tenants?

Accepted Answer

Yes, absolutely. We can take over management of a property with existing tenants. We'll handle the transition smoothly, including notifying tenants of the change and updating payment details.

Question 17

What areas do you cover?

Accepted Answer

We manage properties across Manchester, Greater Manchester, Blackpool, Leeds and Yorkshire. If you're unsure whether your property falls within our coverage area, just give us a call and we'll let you know.

Frequently Asked Questions

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