Sold STC
Ersham Road, Canterbury, CT1 3AR
£495,000
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Your Guide to Buying a Home
Finding the right home is an exciting journey, but there's plenty to think about along the way. Whether you're buying for the first time, moving somewhere new or searching for your next property, Sally Hatcher Estates is here to help you find your feet. Explore our buying guide and discover available homes across Canterbury and East Kent.
Finding somewhere to call home
Buying a property is one of life’s biggest decisions.
It’s not just about the number of bedrooms, the size of the garden or finding somewhere within your budget. It’s about choosing a place that feels right for you and the life you want to lead.
At Sally Hatcher Estates, we understand that everyone’s property search is different.
You might be purchasing your very first home, looking for more space, downsizing or relocating to Canterbury and the surrounding area.
Whatever your plans, our team is here to help you explore available properties, arrange viewings and understand the steps involved in purchasing a home.
We’re an independent, family-run estate agency based in Chartham Hatch, near Canterbury, with extensive local property experience.
If you’re beginning your search, we’d love to hear what you’re looking for.
Start your property search
Looking for a particular location, property type or price range? Search our available homes for sale across Canterbury and the surrounding area to see what could be right for you.
The home buying process, step by step
From getting your finances in order to collecting the keys, here's what to expect when buying a property in England.
Understand your budget
Before searching seriously, consider how much you can comfortably afford. If you're buying with a mortgage, speak to a lender or qualified mortgage adviser about your borrowing options. Having a mortgage agreement in principle may help demonstrate your position when making an offer. Remember to allow for additional costs such as conveyancing, surveys, moving expenses and any applicable property taxes.
Find the right property
Start exploring homes that suit your budget, preferred location and practical requirements. Consider what matters most to you, including living space, transport connections, outdoor areas and the potential for future changes.
Arrange a viewing
Once you've found a property that interests you, contact the selling agent to arrange a viewing. Take the opportunity to explore the space, ask questions and get a feel for the property and its surroundings.
Make an offer
If you've found the right home, you can submit an offer through the estate agent. Your offer will be passed to the seller, who can accept, decline or negotiate. In England, an accepted offer is generally not legally binding until contracts are exchanged.
Arrange your mortgage and solicitor
Once your offer is accepted, you'll progress your mortgage application if required and instruct a solicitor or licensed conveyancer. They'll carry out the relevant legal checks, searches and enquiries. You may also wish to arrange an independent property survey.
Exchange and completion
When the necessary arrangements are finalised, contracts can be exchanged and a completion date agreed. Exchange normally makes the purchase legally binding. On completion, the purchase funds are transferred, ownership changes and you can collect the keys to your new home.
Make the most of your property viewings
A viewing is your chance to look beyond the photographs and decide whether a property really suits you.
Look at the layout
Think about how you'll use each room, whether there's sufficient storage and if the available living space suits your everyday needs.
Check the condition
Look for visible signs of wear, damp or maintenance issues. An independent survey can help assess matters that aren't obvious during a viewing.
Explore the location
Consider parking, transport links, nearby amenities and the surrounding neighbourhood. It can be useful to visit the area at different times.
Ask questions
Find out what you can about the property's ownership arrangements, running costs, alterations and any other information relevant to your decision.
Think ahead
Consider whether the property could continue to meet your needs over the coming years, particularly if your circumstances may change.
Discover your next home
Take a look at some of the homes currently available through Sally Hatcher Estates, from Canterbury properties to homes in the surrounding villages.
A few things worth knowing before you buy
Understanding the practical details can help you make a more informed decision.
Budget for more than the asking price
The purchase price is only one part of the overall cost of buying a home. You may also need to budget for mortgage-related costs, a property survey, legal fees, removals and Stamp Duty Land Tax, where applicable. The precise amounts will depend on your circumstances and the property you're buying.
Understand the property's ownership
Properties may be sold as freehold, leasehold or under other ownership arrangements. If you're purchasing a leasehold property, it's particularly important to understand the lease terms, service charges, ground rent provisions and responsibilities associated with ownership. Your solicitor or conveyancer can explain the legal implications before you commit.
Consider a property survey
A mortgage valuation is primarily carried out for the lender and is not a substitute for an independent survey. A suitable survey can provide further information about the property's condition and highlight issues that may require attention. The level of survey you choose should reflect the property and your circumstances.
Understand the importance of your property chain
If you're selling a home to fund your purchase, the progress of your sale may affect when you can move. Similarly, the seller of the property you're buying may have an onward purchase. It's useful to understand the circumstances of everyone involved so that expectations can be managed.
Ask about identification checks
Estate agents must comply with relevant identity verification and anti-money laundering requirements. You may be asked to provide identification and other relevant information as part of the buying process. Where any identification-check charge applies, ask the agent to explain it before proceeding.
Take your time with important decisions
It's natural to feel excited when you've found a property you love. However, making sure you understand its condition, costs, legal arrangements and suitability can help you make a more confident decision.
Find a home in the right location
The Canterbury area offers a varied selection of properties and places to live. From city-centre apartments and period terraces to family houses and village homes, different locations offer different lifestyles and practical considerations. As a local estate agency, Sally Hatcher Estates can help you explore the homes available throughout our area.
Buying in Canterbury
Canterbury offers a mixture of historic properties, established neighbourhoods and modern residential developments. Explore our guide to buying property in Canterbury.
Buying in Chartham
Chartham and Chartham Hatch provide a village setting within reach of Canterbury, with a mixture of family homes and character properties. Read more about buying property in Chartham.
Buying across East Kent
If you’re considering a wider search, explore the different properties and communities available in the surrounding area. Discover our East Kent property buying guide.
Buying a home: frequently asked questions
Answers to some of the questions we often hear from people beginning their property search.
Browse our properties for saleWhat should I do before buying my first home?
Start by understanding your budget, reviewing your deposit and considering your mortgage options. It's also worth allowing for additional costs such as conveyancing, surveys and moving expenses. Once you have a clearer idea of what you can afford, you can begin searching for suitable properties.
Do I need a mortgage agreement in principle before viewing?
It's not always essential to have an agreement in principle before arranging a viewing, but it can help you understand your borrowing position and demonstrate to sellers that you're preparing seriously to purchase.
How do I arrange a property viewing?
Contact Sally Hatcher Estates about the property you're interested in. Our team will confirm availability, discuss suitable appointment times and explain any relevant arrangements.
How do I make an offer on a property?
You can submit an offer through the estate agent marketing the property. The agent will communicate your offer to the seller, who can then decide whether to accept, reject or negotiate.
Is an accepted offer legally binding?
In England, an accepted offer is generally not legally binding until contracts are exchanged. Before exchange, either party may usually withdraw, although doing so can result in lost costs and delays.
How long does buying a house take?
Timescales vary depending on factors such as mortgage arrangements, legal enquiries, property searches and whether other transactions are involved in the chain. Your solicitor or conveyancer can explain the progress of your purchase and provide guidance on likely timescales.
Should I get a survey when buying a property?
An independent survey can help you understand the condition of a property and identify potential issues. The type of survey most suitable for you will depend on the property's age, construction, condition and your circumstances.
Can Sally Hatcher Estates help me sell my existing home?
Yes. We also provide residential property sales services across Canterbury and the surrounding area. Explore our selling guide or arrange a free valuation to discuss your current property.
Where can I see your latest properties for sale?
Browse our properties for sale to see current listings and contact the team if you'd like to arrange a viewing.
Ready to find your next home?
Whether you've found a property you love or you're just beginning your search, we're here to help you take the next step. Explore our latest homes for sale or get in touch with the Sally Hatcher Estates team to discuss what you're looking for.
Contact Our Team