Buying with Samson Consultants
We’re here to help you take your next step forward on life’s journey.
Your buying experience
Expert agents with a passion for the people behind the property.
Whether it’s your first or your fourth, buying a property is always an exciting time. So, if you’re thinking of moving forwards in East London area, our expert agents are on hand every step of the way.
With a full in-house service including free property valuations and conveyancing, Samson consultants are here for the whole journey.
More Buyers
We have one of the largest softwares, with a vast amount of clients.
Personal Service
Our experts are with you from valuation to completion, ensuring your sale stays on track.
Advanced Technology
Our industry-leading technlogy helps find more buyers and keeps you in control of your sale.
Everything you need to know about buying property in London.
Whether you are buying your first home, making your next move or purchasing an investment property, we will help answer all your questions. Read our guide below on how to purchase a property in the UK.
First-Time Buyers Guide
1. Register with an agent
Your estate agent is your first point of contact when starting your property journey. They will take the time to understand your requirements and help match you with suitable properties, while guiding you through the buying process and acting as a liaison between you and the seller. When you register with Samson, we focus on understanding exactly what you are looking for in a home. With over 30 years of experience and agents local to your chosen area, we can also advise on schools, transport links and local amenities.
2. Search online
You can begin your property search online using our easy-to-navigate website, allowing you to browse listings and shortlist properties from home before visiting us in branch. All of our properties are also listed on major property portals including Rightmove, Zoopla, PrimeLocation and OnTheMarket, giving you multiple ways to find your next home.
3. Obtain a mortgage Agreement in Principle
Obtaining a mortgage Agreement in Principle (AIP) before viewing properties helps demonstrate your financial position and shows sellers that you are a serious buyer. An AIP is quick to arrange and applies to any properties you view within the agreed price range. Our in-house Mortgage Advisors are available to discuss your circumstances and help you find a mortgage that suits your needs.
4. Book some viewings
Once you have found one or more properties you are interested in, contact us and we will be happy to arrange viewings at a time that suits you. This is your opportunity to see whether a property could be the right home for you.
5. Make an offer
When you find the right property, your agent will guide you through making an offer. They will discuss your options with you and negotiate with the seller on your behalf.
6. Open a file with a conveyancer
While your offer is being considered, you can instruct a solicitor or conveyancer to begin the legal process. They will handle property searches, title checks and contracts through to exchange. Samson offers trusted conveyancers with fixed fees and nothing to pay until completion.
Buying a house: A Timeline
Week 1-2: Draft contracts are prepared and initial legal enquiries and Land Registry checks are carried out.
Week 2-5: Local authority searches, surveys and mortgage valuations are completed. Survey options range from snagging surveys to full structural surveys.
Week 5-6: Contracts are approved and your formal mortgage offer is issued.
Week 6-8: Contracts are exchanged, deposits are paid and the purchase becomes legally binding.
Week 8-10: Completion takes place, funds are transferred and you can move into your new home.
Main differences between buying a flat and a house
The land
When buying a house, you usually own both the property and the land it sits on. With a flat, the land and building are typically owned by a freeholder, and your rights and responsibilities are set out in a legal agreement known as a lease.
Ground and garden maintenance
For flats, maintenance such as roof repairs, gutter cleaning and communal areas is usually managed by the freeholder, although flat owners contribute financially through service charges. With a house, responsibility for maintenance normally rests entirely with the homeowner, unless you own part or all of the freehold of a flat.
Extra restrictions
Flats often come with restrictions, such as limits on renovations or flooring types, particularly where noise may affect neighbouring properties.
So, what is leasehold?
A leasehold is a legal agreement between the flat owner and the freeholder, setting out what you own and for how long. New leases commonly start at 99, 125 or even 999 years, and most flats have leases exceeding 90 years, particularly new builds. As the lease passes from owner to owner, its length is an important consideration.
Who can extend a lease?
Under the Leasehold Reform Housing and Urban Development Act 1993, most flat owners are legally entitled to add 90 years to their lease at a fair market price. This right usually applies once you have owned the flat for at least two years, including buy-to-let properties.
How to check lease length
Your estate agent can usually advise on the remaining lease length, but this information should always be confirmed by a solicitor. A lease under 85 years is generally considered short. This does not necessarily rule out a purchase, as sellers can often start the lease extension process before completion.
Why and when to extend a lease
Extending a lease can significantly increase a property’s value and make it easier to sell. If your lease is 85 years or less, it is generally advisable to explore extension options. Leases between 80–90 years often cost under £10,000 to extend, while shorter leases can cost considerably more, but usually still add value overall.
Leasehold restrictions – what to check
Before buying, check whether the lease restricts pets, renovations or renting out part or all of the property. Permission from the freeholder, lender or local authority may be required.
What is a property service charge?
A service charge is a regular fee paid towards the maintenance, repair, insurance and management of the building and shared areas. Charges are usually calculated annually and divided between all flats. On average, flat owners can expect to pay £1,000–£2,000 per year, depending on location and facilities.
Recap: Buying a flat vs a house
Buying a flat is broadly similar to buying a house, but key differences include leasehold ownership, possible lease extensions, service charges and additional restrictions—all of which should be factored into your decision and budget.
How to buy a house
Buying a house or flat can feel more complicated than expected, particularly for first-time buyers. Understanding the key stages in advance can make the process far smoother. Below are the six main steps you can expect when buying your first home, from starting your search through to the legal process.
Register your details with an estate agent
Your estate agent plays a central role throughout your buying journey. They will guide you through each stage, answer your questions and act as the main point of contact between you and the seller. When you register with Samson, we take the time to understand your requirements and suggest suitable properties, including alternatives you may not have considered. With strong local knowledge across East London and Essex, we can also advise on schools, transport links and the character of different areas.
Look online for your new home
Most property searches now begin online, making it the ideal place to start building a shortlist. Browsing online listings allows you to compare properties and focus on those that best match your needs before arranging viewings. All Samson properties are listed on Rightmove, Zoopla, PrimeLocation and OnTheMarket, and selected listings also include virtual tours, giving you the chance to explore properties in detail from home.
Secure your mortgage
Arranging a mortgage Agreement in Principle before attending viewings can put you in a stronger position when making an offer, as it shows sellers that you are financially prepared. Samson has in-house Mortgage Advisers in every major branch who can guide you through your options and help secure a mortgage that suits your circumstances.
Book some viewings
Once you have identified properties you like, booking a viewing is essential. Viewing in person allows you to assess the space, condition and surroundings. Acting quickly is important, as popular properties can sell soon after coming to market.
Make an offer
When you find the right property, decide on your offer and contact the estate agent. They will submit the offer to the seller and negotiate on your behalf, keeping you informed throughout the process.
Open a file with a conveyancer
While your offer is being considered, you can instruct a solicitor or conveyancer to begin the legal work. They will manage searches, title checks and contracts through to exchange. Samson offers a trusted conveyancing service with fixed fees and nothing to pay until completion, providing reassurance if your purchase does not proceed.