The journey towards buying a new home is an exciting one, whether you’re joining the property ladder or upsizing at the start of a new chapter. But with several stages involved, it can also feel stressful. Our guide explores common reasons buyers feel overwhelmed and provides practical tips to help manage the stress of buying a home.
Why buying a home can feel stressful
The home buying journey involves a mix of emotional decisions and practical steps. From the pressure of finding a place that ticks all the boxes to understanding the legal conveyancing work involved, each stage can feel overwhelming. While many buyers are prepared for the challenges, knowing what to expect can help you feel more confident.
How to reduce moving stress
House hunting often comes with a mix of emotions. It's completely natural to feel excited one day after a promising viewing and disappointed the next if things don't go to plan. Many homebuyers experience these highs and lows, but this is all part of the home buying process.
It's also common to feel uncertain when choosing between properties or deciding when to make an offer. While this can be frustrating, it shows you're thinking things through. It can help to focus on homes that suit your needs and budget to avoid becoming overwhelmed by too many options.
Here are some things you can do to help reduce moving stress.
Expect timeline delays
Buying a home often takes longer than people expect. For a new-build home, the timeline can range from three to six months, depending on your circumstances and the stage of construction when you reserve.
From securing a mortgage to waiting on legal checks, each stage takes time. Key steps include:
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Securing a mortgage: This typically takes between two and six weeks after you submit your full application
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Employing a conveyancer: You'll typically instruct a conveyancer for about eight to 12 weeks to handle contracts, searches and transfer of funds
Working with professionals can help. A mortgage adviser and a conveyancing solicitor can guide you through the process, explain what to expect and help prevent delays.
Prepare for hidden costs
Many first-time buyers plan for their deposit and monthly mortgage payments but overlook some of the other costs involved, such as surveys, removal costs and conveyancing fees. These expenses can add up quickly and cause stress if you're not expecting them.
Don’t be tempted to skip these essential steps to save money, as it can cost you more down the line. For example, not getting a home survey can mean you uncover costly issues later.
Knowing what to budget for early on helps you stay in control. Create a realistic budget that covers all key costs and set aside extra savings for unexpected expenses.
Be organised
Buying a home has many moving parts and involves a lot of paperwork. Whether it's keeping track of mortgage documents, booking viewings or arranging removals, it's easy to feel overwhelmed.
Break the process down into smaller steps, such as gathering documents, instructing a solicitor and booking a survey. Use a to-do list or calendar to track deadlines and store paperwork in one place, either in a folder or securely online.
It's also important to set aside time for self-care. Take breaks when needed and maintain your usual routines, including sleep, exercise and downtime. Looking after your wellbeing helps you stay calm, clear-headed and focused.
Stay motivated
There may be moments when the process feels frustrating or slow, making it easy to lose sight of your goal.
Try to keep the bigger picture in mind. Every step brings you closer to owning your new home, which is something to be proud of. Celebrating your wins, like securing your mortgage offer or exchanging contracts, can help keep you motivated and moving forward.
Ready to start your home buying journey? Speak to our Sales Advisers at your nearest development, or browse our schemes and offers.
