Where to Start Your Search

In the past, the only real option for people looking to buy a house or apartment was the local estate agent. However, there are many more possibilities open to the house-hunter now; the Internet in particular has opened up a whole new way of discovering and viewing properties without leaving the comfort of your living room. Other options depend on the type of property that interests you.

The Internet

The Internet is fast becoming the most popular first step to looking for a house. Not only do individual agents have details of their properties to view online, but there are many sites that also allow you to view details of all the agents that are registered with them, enabling you to specify your criteria, and them look through and choose the ones you're really interested in before contacting the appropriate agent for a viewing. You can usually register with sites, and request that they e-mail you the particulars of suitable properties as soon as they come on the market.

The Estate Agent

The estate agent is still many people's first port of call. It's worth stressing to estate agents that you are genuinely looking to buy, making clear what you're hoping to find. Make sure that you are firm about your requirements and price range but you should also be prepared to receive details of properties that don't quite fit all your specifications. Estate agents know that what-be buyers will often compromise, or even change their mind about what they're looking for. Developing a good working relationship with an individual at each agency makes it more likely that they will think of you when your property comes on their books.

Property Developers

If you are interested in a newly built property it is worth contacting the National House Building Council for a list of members. Check whether any of them has building projects in your chosen area. Most of the larger companies advertise any new projects in local papers.

Private Sales

Some people prefer to sell the property without involving an agency. Check advertisements in the local paper. More unusual properties, or those in very popular locations, may be advertised in the national press - or on the Internet.

Auction Houses

Auction houses often have unusual properties on their books that may have a sitting tenant or be in need of renovation, and would not easily sell on the open market. Look in the Yellow Pages for details of local property auctioneers and register your interest. You'll be sent information about future auctions and can purchase the catalogues. The section on buying at auction has a range of further information.

Shared Ownership

Some housing associations operate a rental scheme (also known as part-buy/part-rent) in which a proportion is taken from each monthly payment and put towards eventual ownership of the property. Contact the National Housing Federation for more information.

Self-Build Companies

Not quite as DIY as it sounds, though some people do choose to build their own. Basically, you buy a plot of land which already has outlined planning permission, then approach one of the many companies in design and make self-build houses. The manufacturer recommends a builder in your area who can construct the house to be required specifications. Self-build companies usually handle a planning application if the house you want doesn't have outlined planning permission.

Buildings at Risk

You may be hoping to renovate a building that is in need of extensive repair or even reconstruction. Estate agents are usually reluctant to handle such properties. Contact your local authority or try English Heritage. The Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings and the Scottish Civic Trust publish lists of such properties in Scotland.