Buying a Property
The RGA Buyers GuideBuying a property doesn’t have to be complicated. We help you cut through the noise, spot the right opportunities, and move from offer to completion with calm, clear guidance. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, upsizing, or exploring buy-to-let, you’ll get straight answers, sensible timeframes, and support that actually feels helpful.
Buying a Property: Step-by-Step Guide
Buying a home shouldn’t feel like a maze. Here’s a clear, human guide to the UK buying process – what happens, when it happens, and how we keep you calm and in control. We work UK-wide with strong local knowledge in Manchester and Norfolk.
The RGA Property Solutions Buyers Guide
1. Get Prepared
Set a realistic budget, gather photo ID and proof of address, and jot down your must-haves vs nice-to-haves. If you’ll need a mortgage, consider getting an Agreement in Principle (AIP) from an FCA-regulated adviser.
2. Register Your Search
Tell us where you’re looking (UK-wide), property type, timeline, and any special requirements (schools, transport, holiday-let potential, accessibility). We’ll tailor viewings so you’re not wasting weekends.
3. Viewings With Purpose
We line up sensible options around your schedule and give honest feedback – condition, likely maintenance, and what’s realistic for resale or rental appeal (we can point you in the direction of regulated advisors).
4. Offer & Negotiation
When you’re ready, we’ll help you structure a clean, credible offer (AIP/proof of funds, solicitor details, timeline). We’ll keep the negotiation straightforward and professional.
5. Sale & Memorandum
Once an offer is accepted, we issue a Memorandum of Sale confirming buyer/seller/solicitors and the agreed price. This kicks off conveyancing on both sides. We can now point you in the direction of a solicitor.
6. Instruct Your Solicitor
Choose a proactive property conveyancer. They’ll handle contract packs, property searches (local authority, water & drainage, environmental), enquiries, and exchange paperwork. We keep everyone talking so nothing stalls.
7. Surveys & Valuation
Book the right RICS survey (Home Survey Level 2/3) depending on property age/condition. If you’re getting a mortgage, your lender will arrange a valuation too. We’ll help you interpret results and, if needed, renegotiate fairly on evidence – not drama.
Mortgage Application
Submit your full application and supporting documents through your FCA-regulated broker or lender. We’ll keep vendors informed on progress, without sharing anything confidential. (Again, we don’t provide regulated financial advice.)
Enquiries & Contracts
Your conveyancer raises enquiries, checks title, and handles forms such as TA6 (Property Information) and TA10(Fixtures & Fittings). We chase politely so you’re not the one doing the chasing.
Exchange of Contracts
When everyone is satisfied, you’ll sign contracts and pay the deposit (often 10%). Buildings insurance typically needs to be in place from exchange. Dates for completion are fixed here.
Completion
Funds transfer, ownership changes hands, and we hand you the keys. We’ll also share practical move-in checks (meters, council tax, utilities) so day one feels smooth, not stressful.
Aftercare
Need reputable movers, contractors, or future lettings/management support? We’re here. If you plan to rent out the property (single let or holiday let), we can advise on compliance and management.
Buying a Property with RGA
Our wonderful team have had over 50 years of buying experience and are happy to walk you through, below you will find our listed properties. We recommend getting in touch directly and setting up a consultation with one of our dedicated agents.
Why Choose Us?
Local insight, national reach
Daily, hands-on knowledge of the UK property market – from Manchester city apartments to Norfolk coastal homes and strong rental areas nationwide.
Personal support, not a call centre
You’ll speak to someone who knows your goals and keeps you updated – no chasing, no guesswork.
Clear, ethical guidance.
We liaise closely with buyer and seller, having a reputation for being the quickest and most seamless agency to purchase with, we strive to make the process as easy as possible fro all parties.
First Time Buyers
New to the process? We’ll map each step – from agreeing an offer through the conveyancing process and surveys to exchange and completion –so you know what happens, when, and why. Expect regular updates and zero jargon.
What to consider before you buy:
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Area & amenities – Transport, schools, green space, local services.
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Property condition – Likely maintenance, energy performance, and future works.
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Resale & rental appeal – Who the property suits now—and in five years.
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Timeline – Typical transaction times and how to keep yours moving.
FAQs (quick and honest)
How long does buying a property take?
It varies by chain and searches. We’ll give you a realistic timeframe at the start and keep it updated.
Do you help with surveys and conveyancers?
Yes—we can introduce reputable firms. You choose who you work with.
Investing & Buy to Let
Looking at buy-to-let? We’ll help you focus on the fundamentals: local demand, realistic rents, expected maintenance, and compliance considerations. You’ll get a pragmatic view of potential rental yield and tenant appeal—whether that’s in Manchester, Norfolk, or another UK location—without straying into financial or tax advice.
To book a viewing:
