Having located the area in which you would like to live, decided on the type of property you'd like to buy and found out how much you can borrow, you can now begin the joys of house hunting.

Remember to stick to your budget at all times, it can be very tempting to offer over the odds for a property but don't submit an offer over and above your financial means.

Decide beforehand what type of new home you want to buy.

• Check the property pages of the local newspapers - these will also include property that is not being sold through an estate agent and these homes may be cheaper as a result.

• Visit lots of properties

• Do not be afraid to go back for a second or even third look. Do take notes - it is easy to forget things when you have left the property, and you can easily confuse two properties.

• Try to ignore decor and furnishings, and picture the property empty.

• Mortgages will be given on most buildings provided they are structurally sound. If the basic amenities of hot and cold water, an outside toilet and a fixed bath or shower are lacking, then lenders must have an assurance that they will be installed immediately.

• If you are interested in a property check out the length of the chain, a long chain will mean a more complicated sale.

Happy House Hunting !!