6 November 2025
Buying your first house is one of life’s biggest milestones. It’s the start of a brand-new chapter — a journey filled with excitement, anticipation, and a fair share of questions. But the moment you’re handed the keys to your very own home makes it all worthwhile.
At Walton Homes, we understand that the process can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re not sure what to expect. That’s why we’ve created this simple guide to help you understand each step, feel confident, and enjoy your journey to becoming a homeowner.
If you’re thinking about buying your first home, start by setting a realistic budget. This includes:
Your deposit (typically at least 5% of the purchase price)
Mortgage repayments
Legal fees and surveys
Moving costs
Ongoing expenses such as utilities, council tax, and insurance
Before you begin your search, it’s a great idea to get a Mortgage in Principle (MIP) — sometimes called an Agreement in Principle. This is a document from a lender confirming how much they’re likely to lend you, based on your income and credit history. It helps you understand your affordability and shows sellers you’re a serious buyer.
Once you have your MIP, you can start shopping around for the best mortgage rates. Different lenders offer different deals, so it’s worth comparing or speaking to an independent mortgage advisor who can guide you through the best options for your situation.
And don’t forget — there are government schemes available to help first-time buyers, from deposit boosts to discounted homes. Our friendly sales team can talk you through any current incentives we’re offering to make your move even easier.
Choosing where to live is one of the most exciting parts of the journey. Make a list of your priorities — think about commute times, local schools, community feel, and access to amenities.
At Walton Homes, we have a wide range of developments across the West Midlands, with something to suit every lifestyle. Each of our homes is built to modern standards with energy-efficient designs and stylish finishes, ready for you to make your own from day one.
You can visit us from Thursday to Monday to explore our show homes and chat with our friendly sales team, who’ll help you find the ideal home to match your needs and budget.
Once you’ve found “the one”, you’ll be able to reserve your home by paying a small reservation fee. This takes it off the market while you arrange the legal and financial details.
You’ll then need to:
Appoint a solicitor or conveyancer to handle the legal side of the purchase — including reviewing contracts, conducting property searches (like local authority, water, and environmental checks), and managing the transfer of funds.
Apply for your full mortgage with your chosen lender. They’ll carry out a valuation survey to confirm the property’s worth, and you may choose to pay for an additional homebuyer survey for extra peace of mind.
Your solicitor and mortgage advisor will guide you through every step, keeping you updated and letting you know what documents they need — such as proof of income, ID, and bank statements.
And remember, our sales team is always on hand if you have any questions along the way.
As soon as everything is approved and contracts are exchanged, we’ll confirm your completion date — the exciting day when you get your keys!
To make your move smoother:
Book your removals in advance.
Set up your gas, water, and electricity accounts.
Arrange for post redirection and update your address with important contacts.
Create a checklist of essentials for your new home — from furniture to kitchenware to décor ideas.
Moving day is a big moment, but with a little preparation, it’ll feel exciting rather than stressful.
Buying your first home can feel daunting, but with the right support, it’s one of the most rewarding experiences you’ll ever have. At Walton Homes, we’re here every step of the way — from your first viewing to the moment you pick up your keys.
We’ll help make the process clear, straightforward, and stress-free, so you can focus on what really matters — turning your new house into a home.
Your journey starts here, with Walton Homes.
