First Time Buyer: Before You Start Viewing (Checklist)
Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, but it’s easy to get carried away when you start browsing listings and booking viewings. Before you step through the door of your first property, it’s essential to have your finances, priorities, and expectations clearly defined. Doing this groundwork not only saves time but also puts you in a stronger position when you find the right home.
This simple checklist is designed to help first-time buyers get organised before they begin viewing properties. From setting a realistic budget to understanding your non-negotiables, these steps will give you clarity and confidence throughout your search.
First-Time Buyer: Before You Start Viewing (Checklist)
1. Budget (be real with it)
- Max monthly payment you’re comfortable with: £____
- Deposit amount: £____
- Extra buffer for bills/life each month: £____
2. Mortgage basics
- AIP in place (yes/no)
- Lender/broker name: ____
- Any credit issues to declare early (yes/no)
3. Deposit proof
- Deposit is from: savings / gift / other
- If gift: do you have a paper trail + ID ready? (yes/no)
4. Your “must-haves” (pick 3)
Your dealbreakers (pick 3)
6. Area + property basics
- Areas you’re happy with: Kettering / Corby / Burton Latimer / other ____
- Property type: house / bungalow / flat
- Bedrooms: ____
- Parking requirement: none / 1 car / 2 cars+
- Garden: yes/no
7. Viewing plan
- Can you view within 24–48 hours if something good comes up? (yes/no)
- Best days/times to view: ____
8. Costs people forget (quick reminder)
- Solicitor fees, survey, removals, and a small “moving in” pot.
Taking the time to complete this checklist before you start viewing will help you stay focused, avoid wasted appointments, and move quickly when the right property appears. A well-prepared buyer is far more attractive to sellers and agents alike, so getting these basics in place early can make all the difference when it comes to securing your first home.
