Congratulations! You have made it to Exchange of Contracts and you are set to own your first property. You will more than likely have a date set for your completion and will quite often move on this day as well. A popular day for completions is a Friday, so that you can then use the weekend actually moving and unpacking some of your belongings, furniture and electronic goods / appliances.

It’s time to celebrate becoming a home owner

Once you are in your new property, you might want to consider a house warming party to celebrate and hold your first house warming party. Take the opportunity to invite your neighbours. Introduce yourselves to them. It won’t be long before you value that good neighbours, really do make the difference to your everyday events and your life.

Renewals and things to remember … Add a reminder in your diary

A year or two can soon pass once you are in your new property and you are enjoying having your own space and freedom. It’s great to be on the first rung of the property ladder, but remember deals expire, packages end and renewals will come. Here’s a quick checklist of what to remember and don’t get caught by an expiring special offer!

• Your Mortgage Deal – Quite often, a lot of mortgages or offers are for a fixed period or have an  introductory rate that will expire after 1, 2 or 3 years. Consult with your mortgage adviser and look at the current mortgage offers available today.
• Home Insurance – This is an annual insurance renewal to cover your property (building) and it’s contents. Get a quote for your home insurance and make sure you’re covered. Remember … Don’t leave it too late. Get covered before your policy expires
• Energy (Gas & Electricity) – You may have signed up to a “price promise” plan or a special offer for your gas and electricity supply. Take a look at the market for current offers and switch your gas or electricity provider online. It’s fast and easy and allows you to get a great deal on your gas and electric.
• Broadband (Internet), TV & Home Phone – Most TV, Phone and Broadband packages are for 12 – 18 months, sometimes 24 months for larger and heavily discounted packages and bundles. Compare and shop around for the latest TV bundles, high speed broadband and home phone packages. Top Tip .. Start looking around at a new provider and gain some prices. you can sometimes use this to renegotiate a new contract or deal with your current provider, as I’m sure to keep your business

Thanks Again! Now it’s time to sit back and enjoy your new property

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