Find It. Love It. Buy It.
House Hunting
1. Work Out Your Budget
- Assess your finances: How much deposit do you have? (Typically 5–20% of the property price.)
- Check affordability: Don’t forget to factor in stamp duty, solicitor fees, surveys, and moving costs.
- Obtain a Mortgage in Principle (MIP/DIP): This shows sellers and agents that you are a serious buyer.
2. Property Search & Viewings
Register on Rightmove for instant property alerts—this site will become your new best friend! It’s an excellent tool for staying updated on new listings, price reductions, and more.
Register directly with estate agents to widen your search.
Booking Viewings
You can book viewings via Rightmove, through our website, or by giving us a call. We will confirm your financial position and availability, then send your appointment details via text or email.
Useful Questions to Ask During Viewings
- How old is the boiler?
- Have there been any alterations to the property?
If structural, do the sellers have supporting documentation? - Are solar panels owned or leased? Is documentation available?
- What is the seller’s position—have they found another property?
- Who are the neighbours? (It’s always good to know who you might be living next to!)
3. Making an Offer
Once you place an offer, a member of our experienced team will negotiate with the seller on your behalf.
When an offer is accepted, we will ask for the following:
- Mortgage in Principle (or confirmation from your mortgage adviser)
- Proof of deposit (please tell us if part of your deposit is gifted)
- Proof of identity (passport or driving licence plus a utility bill)
- Solicitor details
If you haven’t chosen a solicitor yet, we can provide quotes from trusted local firms.
Recommended Solicitors
RG Law
Cowling Swift & Kitchin
Taylor Rose Limited
Please note: If you choose one of our recommended conveyancers, Quantum receives a referral fee:
Cowling Swift & Kitchin — £100
RG Solicitors — £150
Taylor Rose — £150
4. Conveyancing
Once you appoint a solicitor, they will send documents for you to complete and will take an initial fee to open your file.
The seller’s solicitor will send a draft contract, after which your legal enquiries and property searches will begin. Your solicitor will guide you on the associated fees.
We will liaise with both solicitors throughout the process to keep everything on track and keep you updated.
5. Surveys
It is your decision whether to have a survey, though it is highly recommended. Seek advice from your mortgage adviser or another property professional.
Survey Options
Level 1: Condition Report
Level 2: HomeBuyer Report
Level 3: Building Survey
If you are obtaining a mortgage, your lender will likely require a Mortgage Valuation to support your application.
6. Exchange and Completion
When all legal enquiries and searches are complete, your solicitor will send you a final report.
Exchange of Contracts
- Both solicitors swap signed contracts, making the sale legally binding.
- Your solicitor will request your deposit.
- A completion date will be agreed.
- From this point, you are legally committed to the purchase.
Completion Day
The big day is here!
(You’ll probably have a van booked and half the family ready to help—don’t forget a car bag with essentials: kettle, tea, biscuits, and toilet roll!)
When the seller’s solicitor confirms receipt of funds, we will be authorised to release the keys.
Financial Advice
We recommend the financial advice services of Fenton Simpson for both buyers and sellers. If you choose to use their services, please note that Quantum receives a £25 voucher for each survey instructed and a small percentage of the fee for each mortgage agreed.
Ready to Start House Hunting in York?
Explore our latest homes for sale and get a feel for what’s available. New properties are added often, so keep checking in to make sure you don’t miss the right one for you.