Finding a new home that ticks all the boxes

What matters most when choosing a home

Every buyer has different needs, so what matters most depends on your lifestyle and personal preferences. While priorities may vary, there are a few important factors that many buyers consider when choosing a home.

Location and neighbourhood

Location plays a big role in your day-to-day comfort and the long-term value of your home. Think about proximity to schools, transport links, job opportunities and convenient access to healthcare and leisure facilities.

It’s also a good idea to consider the character of the neighbourhood, how safe it feels and whether there are any planned changes in the area – such as new roads, transport links or housing developments.

You can visit in person or research the area online, check Ofsted reports for nearby schools, review local crime statistics and search for any planning applications through the local council website.

Layout and space

Your home's layout should support your lifestyle and your practical needs. Some important questions to consider include:

• How many bedrooms and bathrooms do you need?

• Do you need space for a home office?

• Does the home have enough storage for your belongings?

• Do you want outdoor space, such as a garden or a patio?

Property type

Each type of home has its own advantages, and the right fit will depend on your lifestyle, budget and needs:

• Detached homes usually offer more privacy and outdoor space, but can be more expensive

• Semi-detached or terraced houses are typically more affordable and easier to maintain, but you share a wall with your neighbour

• Flats can be even easier to maintain due to their usually smaller size, but they may have limited outdoor space and include service charges

• Bungalows are single-story homes that are ideal if you have mobility needs, but they may be more expensive for their size

Budget, financing and hidden costs

Affordability goes beyond the asking price and mortgage deposit. Buyers tend to overlook the other costs of buying a home, including conveyancing fees, mortgage arrangement expenses, surveys, removal services, Stamp Duty and buildings insurance. However, it’s important to factor these additional expenses early on so you can budget accordingly.

Buying a home can be expensive, but there are various schemes and offers available that can make it more affordable. If you’re buying one of our new build homes, explore our homebuying offers to see what might be suitable for you.

Viewing checklist

Once you’ve shortlisted homes that meet your key criteria, it’s time to take a closer look. Viewing properties in person gives you a chance to see details that aren’t always visible in photos, including room proportions, natural lighting, the condition of fittings and the overall feel of the home.

What to know before you view potential homes

Before visiting a property, do your research. Look at its listing history, past sale prices and how long it's been on the market. It’s also worth reviewing the property’s Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), as it can provide useful insights into how energy efficient your potential home is and how much it might cost to run.

Have a checklist ready so you can compare properties and ask targeted questions during your visit.

What to look for when viewing a home

It may be useful to bring someone with you to the viewing, as they can offer a different perspective or spot things you might miss. If the seller or agent agrees, take photos or videos so you can revisit details later. Look for signs of damp, structural issues or wear and tear. Test water pressure, heating and light switches.

Don’t forget to check your phone signal and ask about broadband speeds, especially if you work from home.

Follow-up essentials after the viewing

Write down your impressions while they're still fresh. Use your checklist to compare each property and discuss it with anyone else who’s involved in the purchase. If you have concerns, arrange a second viewing or follow up with the estate agent for clarification.

Securing your home

If a property meets your criteria and feels like the right fit, the next step is securing your new home with a successful purchase. From making an offer to arranging a mortgage and completing legal checks, this stage is all about protecting your investment, while also offering you a chance to carry out more detailed checks before you commit.

Making an offer and the mortgage process

When you've found a property that ticks all your boxes, act promptly but strategically. Research similar properties to guide your offer and be ready to negotiate.

Once your offer is accepted, the mortgage application process begins. This can take several weeks, so stay in regular contact with your lender and solicitor.

Survey, legal checks and contracts

A professional survey can uncover hidden problems that aren't obvious during a viewing. Depending on the survey results, you may want to renegotiate the purchase price or walk away.

During the conveyancing process, your solicitor will carry out legal checks, verify ownership and order local searches. These steps help make sure the property is legally sound and that you know everything you need to before you commit.

Ready to buy a home? Browse our new homes across the UK and start your journey with David Wilson Homes today.