Searching for a new home is one of the most exciting journeys you will ever take. However, with numerous options available, ranging from online property portals to local estate agents, it can also feel overwhelming, especially for first-time buyers.
Whether you are looking to get onto the property ladder or move up it, the key to success is combining the best digital tools with expert local advice. At Martin & Co, we have been helping buyers find their dream homes for more than 30 years, and we know exactly what works.
Related: Properties for sale
Here is our step-by-step guide to finding houses for sale near you with confidence.
Decide what kind of property you want
Before you start browsing listings, it helps to know what type of home suits your needs. The property market in the UK offers a wide range of options, each with its pros and cons:
Terraced houses: Affordable and practical, but with less privacy.
Semi-detached houses: More space and a garden, with only one shared wall.
Detached houses: Stand-alone homes with maximum privacy and space.
Flats and maisonettes: Great for first-time buyers or low-maintenance living.
Bungalows: Single-storey, accessible, and often with outdoor space.
Making a list of “must-haves” and “nice-to-haves” keeps your search focused. For example, you might prioritise parking, a garden, or proximity to schools, while being flexible about extras such as an office or en-suite. This discipline stops you from wasting time on unsuitable properties.
Related: What is a maisonette?
Arrange your finances early
A realistic budget is the foundation of any property search. Start by assessing how much you can contribute as a deposit and how much you are likely to be able to borrow. Speaking to a mortgage broker early will give you clarity, and securing a Mortgage in Principle (MIP) shows sellers you are serious.
It is also vital to factor in additional costs such as Stamp Duty, solicitor’s fees, surveys and removals. If your budget is £250,000, there is little sense in looking at homes listed at £325,000. Staying disciplined avoids disappointment and keeps your search streamlined.
Choose the right location
Why location matters
Location is just as important as the property itself. Get it right, and you will enjoy your home while watching it grow in value. Get it wrong, and you may face the stress of moving again sooner than you would like.
Research and lifestyle factors
When narrowing down locations, think about lifestyle as much as practicalities. Do you want a lively city centre with restaurants and nightlife, or a quieter suburban setting with gardens and green space? What about transport links, commuting times, schools, or community facilities?
Spend time in the area
The best way to judge an area is to spend time in it. Visit at different times of day, walk the streets, and even talk to locals. If you are moving somewhere completely new, consider renting for six months before committing to buy. That way, you will get a feel for the area without the risk of an unsuitable long-term decision.
Futureproofing your move
It is also worth thinking about the long term. Will the area still suit you in five or ten years if your family grows or your circumstances change? Is there regeneration underway or new transport links being built that might boost property values? The UK housing market is extremely localised, with values sometimes changing from one street to the next, so detailed research is essential.
Use online property portals
Property portals are a great way to explore the housing market quickly. Platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and OnTheMarket give buyers instant access to thousands of listings and allow you to filter results by price, location and property type. They are a useful starting point for comparing what is currently available in your chosen area.
For the most up-to-date homes on the market, browse the latest Martin & Co property listings today.
How to search effectively
To get the best results, search by postcode or town, apply filters for your must-have criteria, and save your searches. Most portals allow you to set up email or app alerts, so you will be notified as soon as a new property matching your needs comes onto the market.
Work with local estate agents
Even in the digital age, estate agents remain one of the most valuable resources in your property search. They know the market inside out and can tell you if a property is overpriced, advise on the best streets, and share details of homes before they hit the portals.
At Martin & Co, our branches are independently run by local experts who live and work in their communities. This gives you access to early listings, insider knowledge, and tailored advice that online searches cannot provide. Building a relationship with a local agent also means they will keep you in mind when new homes are about to come onto the market.
Alongside working with agents, you can also keep an eye on social media, local newspapers, and new build websites. Some buyers even explore auctions, though these require careful preparation.
Make sure the property is right for you
Once you have found a property you like, investigate thoroughly before committing:
- Arrange a professional survey to uncover structural or maintenance issues.
- Check local planning applications for developments that might affect the area.
- Visit at different times of day to assess traffic and noise levels.
- Talk to neighbours and local business owners to get a real sense of the community.
These steps ensure you make a well-informed decision and protect your investment.
Make an offer and progress the sale
When you are ready to proceed, put in an offer and do not be afraid to negotiate. Sellers often expect it, and depending on market conditions, you may secure a property below the asking price.
Having your Mortgage in Principle ready strengthens your position, as does instructing a solicitor early. Once your offer is accepted, the process moves to surveys, mortgage approval, and conveyancing. You will exchange contracts once everything is in order, pay your deposit, and finally complete on your new home.
Consider the Government home-buying schemes
For first-time buyers, saving for a deposit can be a challenge. Government schemes can help. Shared Ownership allows you to buy a share of a property and pay rent on the rest. The First Homes scheme offers discounted homes for local first-time buyers, while the Lifetime ISA (LISA) helps boost your savings with government contributions.
These schemes are not available everywhere, but if you qualify, they can make getting on the property ladder more achievable.
FAQs
What is the quickest way to find houses for sale near me?
Register with local estate agents and set up alerts on portals like Rightmove and Zoopla.
Should I use an estate agent or just search online?
Estate agents often know about properties before they appear online and can give insider advice on prices and neighbourhoods.
How do property alerts work?
Simply enter your criteria on a portal or estate agent website and sign up for notifications. You will be emailed as soon as new properties are listed.
What should I check before buying a house?
Arrange a survey, research local planning, and make sure the area suits your lifestyle.
Ready to start your search?
Finding the right home is about much more than scrolling through online listings. The most successful buyers take time to define their needs, set a clear budget, and carefully research the locations that will suit them both now and in the future. By combining digital tools with the insight of local estate agents, you can make confident decisions and secure the right home for your circumstances.
At Martin & Co, we are here to support you through every stage of the buying process. From your first search to the moment you collect the keys, our local experts will help you find houses for sale near you and make your move as smooth as possible. Start your property journey today by browsing our current listings or contacting your nearest Martin & Co branch.
