Buyers Guide

Ashley King: Buying London, Hillingdon & Harrow Property, Made Simple

The London, Hillingdon and Harrow property market has it's own idiosyncrasies to consider, that's why Ashley King extend their knowledge and local market expertise to buyers to help them navigate their way though the maze.

  Buyers Guide

Our straightforward guide will help you get started on your London property journey, however, for more personal guidance and assistance, please contact our friendly and helpful team. 

  Establishing Your Budget

Once you have identified your desired location, property type, and must-have features work out if properties in this area that match your specifications are within your budget.

Factor in additional costs such as Stamp Duty, Conveyancing, an EPC, Access to Amenities, Transport, CC, LEZ, ULEZ and Residents' Parking Permits into your calculations.

  Mortgage Pre-Approval

Contact a reliable mortgage advisor or lender to get pre-approved for a mortgage. This will give you a clear idea of how much you can afford, enhancing your negotiation power. 

If you would like us to arrange a consultation with our independent mortgage advisor, please let us know. Please note: You are under no-obligation to engage any of our partner services and this will not affect your property purchase.

  Register With Us

Many London properties are sold "Off Market" so when you register with Ashley King, you gain access to our exclusive mailing list, and will be notified of new listings. before they reach the open market.

  Property Search

We will accompany you when viewing our listings and be able to answer your questions. Should you be an overseas buyer, or wish to engage us as your buying agent, we can view properties throughout the London and Greater London area on your behalf and provide our knowledgeable insights and negotiate with vendors on your behalf.

  Making an Offer

Once you find your ideal property, we will submit your bid to the vendor, along with your supporting evidence such your pre-approved mortgage status, position to move, and timescale. If we are the vendor's agent, we will negotiate with complete transparency and integrity on behalf of the vendor to secure the purchase.

At this stage, we will also carry out legally required Anti-Money Laundering checks. This will also be carried out by the vendor's solicitor during the conveyancing process. 

  Conveyancing

Once your offer is accepted, you will need to appoint a Conveyancing Solicitor to handle the legal aspects of the purchase. They will conduct searches, review contracts, and ensure all necessary legal checks are completed. 

  Survey and Valuation

If you are using a mortgage to finance your purchase you will need to arrange a survey to identify any structural issues with the property and obtain a valuation to ensure the property's worth aligns with the purchase price. Even if you are a cash buyer, it is advisable to do this for peace of mind and insurance purposes. 

  Finalising the Mortgage

Your lender will then be able to finalise your mortgage application based on the survey and valuation report.

  Exchange of Contracts

Once all legal checks and negotiations are complete, you will exchange contracts with the seller. At this stage, you are legally bound to the purchase. You will also be required to pay a deposit which will be held by the vendor's solicitor until completion.

   Planning your Move

You can now start preparing to move into your new home, or if it is an investment property you intend letting, preparing it for tenants. 

As with all busy cities, you will need to take into account access for removal vans and additional parking for trade vehicles if required. As this can vary locally throughout the London and Greater London area.

As local property experts, we can point you in the direction of local removal companies and the appropriate council departments to ensure your moving day goes smoothly. We will alos liaise with the vendor to provide you with as much practical advice as possible prior to moving day to make your move a great success. 

   Completion

On the agreed-upon completion date, your solicitor will transfer the funds to the seller's solicitor, and you will receive the keys to your new property.

  Post-Completion

Your solicitor will have several jobs to tie up after completion, including paying any Stamp Duty due to HMRC, transferring the title deeds of the property and providing a copy to your mortgage lender where applicable.

You will also need to update your address with relevant authorities, arrange property insurance, and set up utilities in your name. Make sure you have also applied for the appropriate emission zone and parking permits if required.

  Congratulations!

You are now the proud owner of your new property!

We hope you settle into your new surroundings quickly and make the most out of the diverse and inclusive lifestyle our amazing city has to offer.

Whether you are putting your first foot on the housing ladder or adding to a growing property portfolio, Ashley King is committed to assisting you every step of the way.

We'd be delighted to make your next move a great success, so please contact us if you require assistance in your property search, or would like to discuss in greater detail your property options.