With one auction down for 2016 and our next one not until 16th March, now is the time for new buyers to start doing your homework.
Whilst the catalogue won’t be available for a few weeks yet, there is still plenty of research you could (and should) be doing right now.
CATALOGUE
First of all, make sure you are on the list to receive a catalogue as soon as it becomes available. The electronic version comes out before the hard-copy so give yourself a head start and get yourself on the email alert list.
LOCATION
Research the areas in which you’re looking to buy. But remember, it’s a competitive market, so keep an open mind to other similar areas that might also fit your property model. If you plan to buy a renovation project to sell on again, the location is arguably less important because, hopefully, you won’t keeping hold of the property for too long. But you do need to make sure there is a strong enough market for your planned property model. Find out a typical ceiling price for the area – this will help you to identify a good deal when the catalogue comes out.
If you’re buying a property to let, consider different models. Are you looking for an income generator – something that might allow you to reduce your current working hours for example? Or are you looking more long-term with an eye on the capital appreciation of the property rather than the monthly rent it produces?
If you’re looking for the capital growth, the location is key. You should be looking to capitalise on upcoming areas. Speak to agents, ask them about the market, chat to locals, visit the local artisan market, go for a coffee – spend time in the area. Locally, Marple Bridge, Edgeley, Levenshulme and Monton are all hotspots at the moment.
If you’re looking for the highest yielding properties then you could focus on East and North Manchester, in particular, Gorton, Openshaw and Moston. These areas have a high proportion of terrace houses at the lower end of the market. Further afield, in Lancashire you can still consistently pick up property for under £30,000 but, as the old saying goes, “if it seems too good to be true, it probably is…”. And be careful not to rush into the first property you see that you think is a bargain.
FINANCE
Now is perfect the time to get your Mortgage in principle organised. Buying a property at auction is a binding agreement and carries the same legal implications as a signed contract by private treaty. You could lose your deposit if you don’t complete within the given time (usually 28 days) so the more arrangements you can have in place before you commit to a purchase, the better. Use these few weeks running up to our next auction wisely.
GUIDANCE
And, of course, get in touch for any auction/property guidance whatsoever. That’s what I’m here for!
NEXT AUCTION: Wednesday 16th March 2016. AJ Bell Stadium, M30 7EY. Registration 1pm. Auction 2 pm.
If you would like to have a chat prior to buying at the Edward Mellor Auction call me on 0161 443 4740.
