Your Guide to Buying with Livco

Buying a property is a major decision. This guide outlines every stage, from budgeting to moving in, so you feel confident throughout.

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Livco’s Buyers Guide

Set Your Budget

Before you start viewing properties, it’s essential to understand exactly what you can afford.

KEY ACTIONS

Assess your finances: Determine how much you can afford, including deposit, legal fees, stamp duty, and moving costs
Mortgage advice: Essential if you require a mortgage to purchase (not needed for a full cash purchase)
Mortgage pre-approval: Can strengthen your position when making an offer

Choose a Conveyancer Early

Selecting the right solicitor before you find a property can save significant time and demonstrate your commitment to sellers.

WHY IT MATTERS

Select a conveyancer before finding a property: Choosing the right solicitor is important and can take time
Avoid delays: Instruct them immediately once an offer is made
Show commitment: Delays can make sellers nervous about your seriousness

Property Search

With your finances in order and professionals appointed, it’s time to find your ideal home.

HOW TO SEARCH EFFECTIVELY

Define your requirements: Location, property type, size, and features
Research the market: Online listings, estate agents, and local knowledge
Arrange viewings: Assess layout, condition, and suitability firsthand

Make an Offer

Once you've found the right property, it's time to submit your offer with confidence.

THE OFFER PROCESS

Decide your offer price: Based on market research, property condition, and your budget
Submit the offer: Your agent or representative presents it to the seller
Offer accepted: With a conveyancer already chosen, you can instruct them immediately and demonstrate commitment

Mortgage & Solicitor

With your offer accepted, the legal and financial processes begin in earnest.

WHAT HAPPENS

Apply for your mortgage: Submit a full mortgage application as soon as your offer is accepted
Instruct your solicitor/conveyancer: Begin the legal process immediately
Contracts are issued by the seller’s solicitor

Solicitor Responsibilities

Conducting property searches (local authority, drainage, environmental, etc.)
Reviewing contracts and raising enquiries with the seller
Advising on legal obligations and leasehold matters (if applicable)
Lender valuation: The lender may inspect the property to confirm its value

Surveys & Checks

Optional but recommended surveys can identify potential issues before you commit.

YOUR OPTIONS

Homebuyer survey: Optional, depending on buyer preference and property type
Act on surveys promptly to avoid delays in the process

Exchange Contracts

The point at which the transaction becomes legally binding for both buyer and seller.

WHAT HAPPENS

Contracts reviewed by your solicitor: Ensure all terms, conditions, and obligations are understood
Deposit paid: Typically 10% of the purchase price on exchange
Set a completion date: Agree on the date when ownership will transfer

Completion & Moving In

The final stage - ownership transfers and you receive the keys to your new home.

FINAL STEPS

Transfer of funds: Your solicitor ensures the purchase money is sent to the seller
Receive the keys: The property is officially yours
Set up utilities and services: Arrange electricity, water, internet, insurance, and council tax

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Browse Our Latest Properties

Take a look at some of the latest properties across our East London portfolio.

Millharbour, London, E14

£375,000
A well-presented one bedroom apartment on the fourth floor of 1 Millharbour, with a private balcony overlooking the water and offered chain free.
More Details
For Sale
1 Bedroom
1 Bathroom
1 Reception
Apartment
Stevens Avenue, Butfield House Stevens Avenue, E9

£375,000
Situated on the second floor of a purpose-built block, this well-presented 2-bedroom flat offers a convenient location close to Well Street’s shops.
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Sold STC
2 Bedrooms
1 Bathroom
1 Reception
Flat
Darnley Road, Hackney

£425,000 Guide Price
A beautifully presented one bedroom apartment with a private south-facing terrace, set within an attractive Victorian conversion in the heart of Hackney.
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Sold STC
1 Bedroom
1 Bathroom
1 Reception
Maisonette
Wick Road, Hackney

£450,000
A bright and spacious three-bedroom apartment occupying a prime Hackney location on Wick Road, close to Victoria Park and a short walk from Homerton Overground station.
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3 Bedrooms
1 Bathroom
1 Reception
Flat
Wenlock Road, Angel

£605,000
This lovely two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment offers 679 sq ft of bright, modern living space, along with a generous private terrace, all set in a fantastic Islington location close to Regent’s Canal.
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2 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms
1 Reception
Flat
Lantana Heights, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park

£550,000 Guide Price
Set within the sought-after Glasshouse Gardens development, this spacious two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment enjoys a prime position adjacent to the iconic Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
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Under Offer
2 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms
1 Reception
Flat
Edmeston Close, Victoria Park

£400,000
A well-presented two-bedroom top floor flat on Edmeston Close, E9, set within a convenient Hackney location.
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Under Offer
2 Bedrooms
1 Bathroom
1 Reception
Flat
Marner Point, Jefferson Place, E3

£300,000 Guide Price
Set high on the 22nd floor of Marner Point within the sought after Jefferson Plaza development, this spacious studio apartment offers approximately 463 sq ft of well designed living space, just moments away from Bromley-by-Bow Underground Station.
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1 Bedroom
1 Bathroom
1 Reception
Apartment
Lillie Square, Earls Court

£1,500,000
Situated on the eighth floor of prestigious LILLIE SQUARE, this stylish THREE-BEDROOM apartment boasts LATERAL LIVING, exceptional RESIDENT AMENITIES and FAR-REACHING LONDON SKYLINE VIEWS.
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For Sale
3 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms
1 Reception
Flat