8 mistakes to avoid when house hunting

House hunts often begin in the new year, prompted, perhaps, by the removal of the Christmas tree and its gaudy baubles. Maybe there’s a realisation as you take down the decorations and start work again that the place you live in is a bit tired. There’s a temptation to think that all of life’s problems could be solved by a new start. Fresh-faced house hunters often forget that there are few things more stressful than moving house – bar, perhaps, divorce. Since the housing market has effectively closed shop during lockdown, it’s the ideal opportunity to reflect on how to remove the pressure from the process once there’s a chance to look at houses again. Here’s my guide to eight common mistakes people make – and how to avoid them:

Do your sums

My first rule of thumb is simple: stop going to view properties you cannot afford. You’ll only upset yourself.