Buy

If you are looking for a property to buy then you will know it is likely to be one of the largest purchases you will ever make and for that reason it can seem very daunting. However, it does not have to be a long and confusing process, particularly if you buy through a professional and experienced agent.

  1. Decide if buying a home is right for you
  • Although 86% of people in the UK want to own their own home, it’s not always right for everybody all the time
  • There are a number of things you need to think about before setting off on your home hunting quest – not least whether you can actually afford it. To arrange a call from one of our recommended independent financial advisors contact us on 01634 730672.
  1. Decide if you should sell first
  • If you are already a homeowner, decide whether you want to sell your house or flat before you buy. It can be dangerous in a rising market, but there are upsides. In particular, you will be able to pounce quickly when you do find the home of your dreams, and you won’t be trapped in a housing chain
  • If you decide to buy and sell at the same time we can advise you on the steps you can take to make things run more smoothly.
  1. Decide on your budget
  • How much do you want to spend? This might be dependent on how much of a deposit you can get together. See our useful mortgage calculator. 
  1. Get your finances in place
  • If you are a first-time buyer,work out how much of a deposit for the mortgage you can get together. Think about savings, the “bank of mum and dad”, the “bank of Granny and Grandpa” and If you have any savings on long term deposit that you plan to use, cash them in.
  • If you are selling your property in order to purchase a new one, get a valuation in order to see how much you would get if you put your current home on the market and how much equity you could use towards the next purchase.
  • Decide what sort of mortgage you want.
  • While you can’t get a mortgage before you buy, you can get a mortgage in principle, which will put you in a stronger position.
  • A mortgage broker can be particularly helpful if you would like advice on mortgages, they are able to search the full range of mortgages available in the market or if you have special circumstances such as being self-employed.
  1. Decide where you want to live
  • If you want to move to a new home close to where you already live, there is little to decide.
  • If you want to move to a different part of town, or across the country, then deciding on the area is more difficult and time consuming.
  • This is a very important decision – get it wrong and you will either be unhappy with where you live or face the costs of moving again. You must do your research thoroughly.
  • You may be considering whether to buy a new build or an existing older or period property.
  1. Choose a specific property
  • Once you know the area you want to live, you should start researching the properties in that area thoroughly, so you really get to know the local market well
  • You then need to contact local estate agents.
  • You need to visit as many properties as possible, and make sure they are no hidden surprises.
  • It’s also important to understand whether the property is freehold or leasehold, and that it is not on a short lease.
  1. Make an offer – and get it accepted
  • Make sure you are in the strongest possible position as a buyer. Having your finances in place will certainly help with this.
  • Decide how much you want to pay, including for fixtures and fittings.
  • Make the offer to the estate agent and seal the deal.
  • Hopefully your offer will be accepted by the seller.
  1. Arrange a mortgage
  • You should ideally have got your finances in place as much as possible before making an offer. If so, you now just need to go back to your mortgage company with the agreed offer and complete the process
  • If you haven’t got your finances in place, you must now scramble to do so as quickly as possible, before the seller loses patience.
  • You will need to get the lender to make you a formal mortgage offer before you can exchange contracts.
  • If buying with a mortgage, it is also a good time to consider getting life insurance advice.
  1. Appoint a solicitor or conveyancer
  • Once you have agreed an offer on your house, you need to get a solicitor or conveyancer to handle the legal work to transfer ownership of the property to you.  Greenleaf have a panel of recommended solicitors who are able to assist with your purchase.
  • Your mortgage company might require you to go with one that is on their panel, which might make the decision for you, however with our extensive panel we are sure to be able to place your case with an acceptable solicitor.
  • Work out how much conveyancing will cost with our free quotation system.
  • The solicitor or conveyancer will do the searches, such as with the local authority and Environment Agency, to ensure there are not any major problems with the property.  
  1. Decide if you want a survey
  • Your mortgage lender will require a valuation by a surveyor, to ensure that the property is a good enough to lend against. This is not a proper survey, and will only look very superficially at the property, if at all
  • You can usually either get the valuation upgraded to a full survey, or you can commission a separate survey. This should tell you everything you need to know about the property, and alert you to any potential problems you will face once you move in. Unless you are very experienced with property, it is usually worth getting a survey done.
  1. Arrange a deposit
  • Before you can exchange contracts, you need to arrange your deposit for the property to be transferred to your solicitor or conveyancer.
  1. Exchange contracts
  • When you exchange contracts with the seller you become legally committed to buying the property – and they are legally committed to selling it to you.
  • If you pull out after this without due reason, your deposit can be forfeited.
  • You should only exchange contracts after you have received the surveyors report, and any necessary action has been taken.
  • Before you exchange contracts, you need to agree a completion date with the seller.
  • You can only exchange contracts after the solicitor/conveyancer is satisfied with the searches, a formal mortgage offer has been received, and arrangements made for the deposit
  • You need to ensure that you take out buildings insurance for the property from the date of exchange, as you are responsible for it from then on. Indeed, it is usually a condition of the mortgage that you have buildings insurance in place.  
  1. Final arrangements and negotiations
  • You need to make arrangements for the supply of electricity, gas, water and telephone service. Often, it is easiest simply to change the account name for the existing suppliers to the property, rather than change suppliers, which you can do at a later date.
  • The solicitor/conveyancer will inform the land registry that they are in the process of transferring ownership of your property
  • Your solicitor/conveyancer should be liaising with the mortgage company to ensure the money will be ready for completion.
  1. Complete the sale
  • Completion is when you pay for the property and take ownership of it, and takes place at a certain time of day – often midday
  • On the day of completion, the money is transferred, and the deeds of the property are transferred, between each side’s conveyancer
  1. Take possession of your new home
  • The seller must leave the property by the time of completion, and you should then be able to collect the keys, normally from the estate agent
  • You are now free to move in.
  1. Pay stamp duty and settle with the solicitor and conveyancer
  • After completion, your solicitor or conveyancer will send you an account, covering all their costs and disbursements, as well as the purchase price of the house and stamp duty. Please see our handy stamp, duty calculator.
  • Your solicitor or conveyancer will normally pay the stamp duty for you, and ensure that the change of ownership is registered with the land registry.

 

If you require any advice or assistance the sales team at Greenleaf are on hand to answer any questions you may have.

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Properties

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4 Bed House - Detached 
For Sale

Wilson Avenue, Rochester

Price Guide £635,000

GREENLEAF PROPERTY SERVICES are delighted to introduce this substantially extended and beautifully presented detached family home to the market, in a sought-after residential location within ME1 Rochester. Boasting three/four double bedrooms, a stunning open-plan kitchen/family/dining room complete with island and breakfast bar, separate bay-fronted lounge, utility room, downstairs shower room/WC and upstairs bathroom, this truly impressive and versatile property further benefits from off road parking for three cars, and a west facing patio and rear garden of approximately 120ft. This stylish family home is simply ready to move into and enjoy, we therefore recommend viewing at your earliest convenience to avoid disappointment.

The layout briefly consists of: Entrance hallway giving access to the lounge, bedroom four/office, downstairs shower room/WC, impressive integral kitchen/breakfast room open-plan to the equally impressive dining/family area, with utility room off the kitchen area; To the rear of the entrance hall stairs lead up to the landing giving access to three double bedrooms and family bathroom; Tri-fold doors lead out to the garden from the dining area, with gated access to the side of the property also.

Located on a quiet residential road yet within walking distance of local shops, pharmacy and doctors surgery, the property is close to all A2/M2/M20 road links to London and coast, and is equidistant to both Chatham and Rochester stations offering fast services to London St Pancras. Highly regarded schools for all age groups are nearby, whilst the historic High Street with its range of restaurants, bars, boutiques, famous cathedral and Norman castle is just a short drive away.

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3 Bed House - End Terrace 
For Sale

Sir Evelyn Road, Rochester

Price Guide £400,000

GREENLEAF PROPERTY SERVICES are delighted to introduce this beautifully presented substantial three bedroom house to the market, in a sought-after residential Rochester location, within a walk of highly regarded grammar schools. Built in the 1920s, and boasting three double bedrooms, off road parking, two bathrooms, high ceilings, a great-size lounge and stylish open-plan kitchen/diner, this impressive and well-proportioned period family home further benefits from a lovely established west-facing garden and a 1/25 share of the sizeable and unique private meadow to the rear of this row of properties. To the front, the property overlooks Sherwood Cricket Club playing field, giving a great feeling of space and privacy. This beautiful home has been well cared for by the current owners for many years and is simply ready to move into and enjoy, we therefore recommend viewing at your earliest convenience to avoid disappointment.

The layout briefly consists of: Entrance porch into lounge with feature dog-leg stairs up to first floor, doorway into open-plan kitchen/diner through to rear lobby giving access to bathroom and doorway out to garden; The upstairs landing gives access to three double bedrooms, another bathroom, and the loft with potential.

Located off the Maidstone Road in Rochester, this impressive property is within walking distance of the highly regarded Rochester Grammar Schools, a short drive to all A2/M2/M20 road links and station with fast trains to London St Pancras in approx 40 mins. The nearby historic High Street offers a wealth of restaurants, cafes, bars and boutiques, along with the ever popular cathedral and Norman castle. Asda and Aldi’s are a 10 minute drive away, as are nearby gym and leisure facilities. With a meadow to the rear, and cricket ground to the front, the property enjoys a peaceful and quiet location, yet close to all schools, road links and amenities.

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3 Bed House - Semi-Detached 
SSTC

Dale Road, Rochester

Offers In The Region Of £275,000

GREENLEAF PROPERTY SERVICES are delighted to introduce this semi-detached house to the market, in a popular residential location within ME1 Rochester, with NO ONWARD CHAIN! Enviably located just a short walk to the highly sought-after Rochester grammar schools and local amenities, this well proportioned 3 bedroom property is available to the market for the first time in many years, and whilst in need of modernisation throughout, will undoubtedly make a beautiful family home for many years to come.

The layout briefly comprises of: Entrance hall, lounge, conservatory, kitchen, bathroom and separate WC; To the first floor there are three good size bedrooms and a further useful space that in our opinion could potentially become a shower room/WC, subject to usual permissions and new owners wishes.

Peacefully located in a quiet residential area just a short walk from the Maidstone Road Rochester and all major A2/M2/M20 road links and bus stops, local amenities and highly regarded schools including the Rochester Grammar Schools are all a short distance away. The historic High Street with its range of boutiques, restaurants, bars, famous cathedral, Norman castle, and station with 35 minute fast trains to London is within a 20 minute walk. Call now to book your viewing!

EPC Grade Awaited. Council tax band C. Freehold.

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4 Bed House - Detached 
For Sale

St. Margarets Street, Rochester

Price Guide £795,000

GREENLEAF PROPERTY SERVICES are delighted to introduce this substantially extended detached house, located in one of Rochester’s most sought after roads, and available with NO ONWARD CHAIN. Built in the 1940s, this well-presented family home boasts space, character and potential in abundance, and further benefits from a garage, off road parking, and a beautifully established low-maintenance walled rear garden with mature trees and shrubbery, with a great view over the Kings school cricket field behind. Properties of this size and location are rarely available, we therefore recommend viewing at your earliest convenience to avoid disappointment.

The layout briefly consists of: Entrance porch into the main hallway, giving access to the open-plan lounge, dining room and family room, through to the kitchen/breakfast room, WC, and stairs up to the first floor; The first floor landing gives access to the master bedroom, bedroom three, bathroom and separate WC, and bedroom two through to the expansive extension to the rear with potential for use as a further double bedroom, studio or office perhaps, all subject to the new owners wishes. There is also potential to further extend across the garage if desired, subject to usual permissions. The garage is located to the side of the property, with ample off road parking to front, and gated access to the rear.

Situated within a few hundred yards of the private schools of Kings and St Andrews, local state schools, the Vines Park, Rochester Cathedral, Castle and the historic Dickensian High Street with its selection of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants are all within walking distance. The property is also well positioned for commuters, with Rochester main line station offering a 35 minute fast-train service to London Victoria, Charing Cross, Cannon Street and a high speed service to Stratford and Ebbsfleet International. All A2/M2/M20 road links to London, coast and Bluewater are a short drive away.

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4 Bed House - Detached 
For Sale

Grain Road, Isle Of Grain, Rochester

Price Guide £449,950

GREENLEAF are delighted to introduce this immaculately presented detached property to the market, on the semi-rural Isle of Grain, Rochester, ready for immediate occupation and available with NO ONWARD CHAIN. Boasting four double bedrooms, two en suites, beautiful family bathroom, and a stunning open-plan kitchen/lounge/diner with two sets of double patio doors out to the great size garden, this impressive property would suit a growing family looking for more space, or equally those looking to downsize but still have space for visiting family. The property further benefits from the remaining 5 year warranty, EV charging point, fully integrated kitchen, a peaceful country location with nearby coastal walks, and ample off road parking.

The layout briefly consists of: Good size hallway giving access to two double bedrooms, family bathroom, stairs up to first floor, and double-doors through to the spacious and light open-plan lounge/diner/kitchen. The upstairs landing gives access to two further double bedrooms both with en suites and panoramic views, and a great size storage room running the full width of the property. To the rear a good size private patio and newly laid lawn garden awaits, with access to the front of property from both sides.

With countryside views to the front, and far reaching River Thames views to the rear, Grain offers quality local schools for all age groups and a wide range of local amenities, whilst Rochester, Higham and Strood High Streets are a short drive away, with stations offering high speed train services to London, and a wealth of restaurants, shops, amenities and further top quality schools. Built to a high specification with quality fixtures and fittings throughout, this outstanding and deceptively spacious home is ready to move into and enjoy, we therefore recommend viewing at your earliest convenience to avoid disappointment.

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1 Bed Flat - Conversion 
For Sale

Davy Court, Rochester

Offers In The Region Of £225,000

GREENLEAF PROPERTY SERVICES are delighted to introduce this spacious and well presented one bedroom maisonette to the market, in sought-after ME1 Rochester. Converted in the early 2000’s from a chapel dating back to the 1880s, this unique property is enviably located just a short walk to the historic High Street and all local amenities. The exclusive gated “Davy Court” development is surprisingly peaceful and quiet, therefore offering convenience and comfort in equal measure. Boasting spacious accommodation throughout, including an impressive open-plan lounge/diner and kitchen, further benefits include an allocated off-road parking space conveniently located directly in front of the property, and plenty of useful storage. Whilst the apartment has been well cared for by the current owners, the opportunity is also there for the new owners to refresh and update to their own personal taste.

The layout briefly comprises of: Spacious hallway with large storage cupboard, giving access to the bedroom, bathroom, and generous lounge/diner open-plan to the kitchen area.

Located just a short walk to the historic Dickensian Rochester High Street and its range of boutiques, cafes, bars and restaurants, cathedral, castle and station with 35 minute fast trains to London St Pancras, highly regarded local schools for all age groups are close by, including Kings and St Andrews private schools. With A2/M2/M20 road links to London and coast a short drive away, river walks on your doorstep and a range of leisure and shopping amenities nearby, we recommend viewing at your earliest convenience to avoid disappointment.

Lease Length: approximately 100 years
Service Charge :£2136.76 P.A
Ground Rent : £300 P.A

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3 Bed House - Semi-Detached 
For Sale

Holmes Close, High Halstow, Rochester

Price Guide £365,000

GREENLEAF are delighted to introduce this well presented three bedroom semi-detached house to the market in sought-after High Halstow Rochester, with NO ONGOING CHAIN. Boasting a detached garage, off road parking and conservatory, this fantastic family home is ideally located on a generous corner plot in a quiet residential cul de sac, with further space for off road parking and in our opinion, potential for a substantial extension to the side of the property, subject to planning permission and new owners wishes.

The layout briefly consists of: Hallway giving access to WC, kitchen, stairs up to first floor, storage cupboard, and lounge/diner through to conservatory: The upstairs landing gives access to three double bedrooms, bathroom, and loft. To the rear, the spacious garden is mainly laid to lawn, with a range of established flowers, plant and shrubs, and boasts a patio area ideal for summer BBQs and entertaining.

Whilst ideally located on the sought-after Hoo peninsula near beautiful semi-rural countryside walks, the property is conveniently close to quality local schools and a commuter coach service running from High Halstow village. All A2/M2/M20 road links to London and coast are close by, whilst a wealth of further shopping, leisure amenities and schools can be found in nearby Hoo, Strood, and Rochester, with stations offering a fast train service to London. A short drive away, the historic Rochester High Street offers a diverse range of boutiques, cafes, restaurants and bars, Norman castle and famous cathedral. We recommend viewing at your earliest convenience to avoid disappointment.

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3 Bed Bungalow - Semi Detached 
For Sale

Coombe Road, Hoo, Rochester

Offers In The Region Of £350,000

GREENLEAF are delighted to introduce this well presented three bedroom semi detached bungalow to the market, in sought-after Hoo, Rochester. This attractive property boasts spacious rooms throughout, off road parking, gas central heating, double glazing and the added benefit of NO CHAIN!

The layout briefly comprises of; Entrance porch, entrance hall, spacious lounge/dining room, conservatory, fitted kitchen, study/utility room, bathroom W/C and two bedrooms. The third bedroom is set on the second floor.

This impressive and attractive bungalow has been much loved and cared for by the present owner and offers an enclosed easy maintainable back garden, garage and off road parking.

Located in a fantastic semi-rural location with wonderful countryside views, a walk to local shops and schools, and a short drive to town, shops, station, and all A2/M2/M20 road links, we recommend viewing at your earliest convenience to avoid disappointment

Council Tax Band C. EPC Grade Awaited.

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3 Bed House 
For Sale

Frobisher Way, Gravesend

Offers In The Region Of £300,000

Set in the sought-after location of Frobisher Way, Gravesend, this charming three-bedroom house presents an excellent opportunity for families and first-time buyers alike. The property boasts a spacious lounge/dining room, first floor bathroom W/C, off road parking to rear and NO CHAIN!

The accommodation comprises of: Entrance porch, lounge/dining room and kitchen. To the first floor there are three good size bedrooms and family bathroom W/C.

Located close to all local amenities and Bluewater Shopping centre is a short drive away. Ebbsfleet/Gravesend stations are also close by having the fast trains into London. There are also highly regarded schools in the area and the A2/M2/M20 roads link to London and coast. We recommend viewing at your earliest convenience to avoid disappointment.

EPC Grade C. Council Tax Band C.

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4 Bed House 
For Sale

Rileys Park Drive, Rochester

Offers In The Region Of £365,000

GEREENLEAF PROPERTY SERVICES are delighted to introduce this spacious and well presented modern town house, set in the popular Medway Gate location of Strood, Rochester. This modern property boasts four double bedrooms, ensuite Shower room, modern kitchen/bathroom W/C and off road parking for two cars. Interest is sure to be strong in this perfect family home, we therefore recommend viewing at your earliest convenience to avoid disappointment.

The layout briefly consists of: Entrance Hall, fitted Kitchen, lounge/dining room and cloakroom W/C. To the first floor there are two double bedrooms and ensuite shower room to the master. The two further double bedrooms are located on the top floor along with the family bathroom W/C.

Ideally located for the Medway Valley Park with all its amenities including a gym, restaurants and a cinema, A2/M2/M20 road links are a short drive away, as is Strood station with a 40 minute fast services to London. Highly regarded schools for all age groups are also a short distance away.

Council Tax Band E. EPC Rating Grade C.

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3 Bed House 
SSTC

Queensway, Allhallows, Rochester

Price Guide £325,000

GREENLEAF are delighted to introduce this immaculately presented semi-detached house offering far reaching views across the surrounding countryside. . Boasting attractive low-maintenance rear gardens with off-road parking and garage to the side, this beautiful family home is peacefully located on Queensway, a short walk to to the village and all local amenities.
The layout briefly consists of : Entrance porch into spacious hallway giving access to the lounge/diner and kitchen, and stairs up to the first floor. Upstairs, the landing gives access to three good size bedrooms and the bathroom/shower room W/C.
Allhallows is located in a rural setting within the Hoo peninsular with the village providing a primary school, local shops and doctors. Nearby Hoo provides a more comprehensive range of amenities including leisure centre, swimming pool, secondary school, restaurants, pubs and shops. There are lovely riverside and country walks on your doorstep, with bus services and easy access to the A2/M2 road links. Railway stations with fast train services to London are available from Strood and Higham, with a high speed service from Ebbsfleet.

Council Tax Band B. EPC Grade Awaited.

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3 Bed House - Semi-Detached 
SSTC

Nickleby Close, Rochester

Offers In The Region Of £300,000

GREENLEAF PROPERTY SERVICES are delighted to introduce this enviably located three bedroom semi-detached house to the market, in a sought-after residential cul de sac in Rochester ME1. Boasting three good size bedrooms, two reception areas and a spacious low maintenance tiered rear garden, this well-proportioned property is in need of some modernisation throughout but is bursting with potential and would make an Ideal family home.

The layout briefly consists of: Entrance porch, entrance hall, lounge, separate dining room, kitchen, useful converted garage and downstairs W/C. To the first floor there are three bedrooms and family bathroom W/C.

Located within walking distance of highly regarded schools for all age groups, there is also a recreation park a short walk away. The nearby historic High Street offers a wealth of restaurants, cafes, bars, and boutiques, as well as the famous cathedral, Norman castle, and regular festivals and markets. Rochester station offers a 40 minute fast train service into London St Pancras, and all A2/M2/M20 road links are a short drive away.

EPC Grade C. Council Tax Band C.

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