A First-Time Buyer’s Step-by-Step Checklist for 2025

Buying your first home in 2025? It’s exciting — and a little overwhelming. Between rising interest rates, stricter lending criteria, and digital-only estate agents, the process has changed. But with the right plan, you can make informed, confident moves. Here’s your ultimate step-by-step checklist.

Step 1: Get Your Finances Mortgage-Ready

Check your credit score (ClearScore, Experian, Credit Karma) and fix errors early
Save at least 5–10% deposit — but 15%+ gives you better deals
Use a mortgage affordability calculator to set your realistic budget

Step 2: Lock in a Mortgage Agreement in Principle (AIP)

Before viewing homes, get an AIP from a lender or mortgage broker. It doesn’t commit you to a loan, but it strengthens your position with sellers and agents. Most are valid for 60–90 days.

Step 3: Begin Your Search (Smartly)

Register with multiple online portals (Rightmove, Zoopla, OnTheMarket)
Use saved searches with alerts for specific postcodes and price caps
Don’t rule out auctions, shared ownership, or Help to Buy resale schemes

Step 4: Make an Offer and Instruct a Conveyancer

Once you’ve found a property, make your offer. If accepted, you’ll need to instruct a conveyancer (solicitor specialising in property transfers). They’ll handle the legal side, search reports, and draft the contract.

Step 5: Secure the Mortgage and Survey

Submit your mortgage application and await formal offer
Book a home survey (level 2 for most, level 3 for older homes)
Check for damp, cracks, or hidden repair costs that might affect your offer

Step 6: Exchange Contracts and Complete

Once all checks are complete, you’ll sign and exchange contracts — paying your deposit (usually 10%). Completion usually follows within 1–3 weeks. On completion day, the property legally becomes yours.

How Property Krowd Helps First-Time Buyers

We simplify the process with guided checklists, trusted partner referrals (for legal, survey, or mortgage support), and a timeline tool that tracks every stage from search to completion.

Final Tips Before You Move

Double-check service charges, lease terms (if leasehold), and council tax band
Start insurance, broadband, and energy account setups early
Label boxes clearly and notify services of your address change

You’ve Got This — and We’ve Got You

Buying your first home is a huge milestone — and with a plan in place, you can navigate every step with confidence. Property Krowd is here to guide you, from the first click to keys in hand.