Information for Buyers

Creating the life you deserve isn't just about finding your dream home.

We're here to help you understand the entire journey.

Let's begin your next chapter together.

At Sowerbys, we put our customers at the heart of everything we do. From the first valuation, we are honest, transparent, and realistic about what can be achieved.

We are local people too. With branches across Norfolk, our reputation is built on knowledge, community spirit, and professionalism.

Whether you’re a vendor, developer, landlord, applicant, or tenant, we treat you as we wish to be treated, combining expert guidance with personal care at every step.

Our customers are our greatest advertisement so make sure to discover their experience of Sowerbys.

What steps do I need to take to buy a home?

Ask a member of your local branch for our 'buying a home guide'. This handy booklet breaks down the steps you should take to ensure your purchase runs smoothly; from ensuring you have the best mortgage deal, to enlisting a solicitor and all the industry jargon inbetween explained.

How do I find out what I can afford?

Chat to a mortgage consultant! The consultant will ask you some simple questions about your circumstances and will be able to give you an idea of what you can afford in a matter of minutes. At Sowerbys we work closely with Broadland Consultants, Independent Mortgage and Financial Advisers; the team can also answer any technical questions you need help understanding.

I've had an offer accepted, what happens next?

Congratulations! Now the important jobs begin to get you ready to move into your new home. It can feel like there's suddenly a lot to organise when you find your dream new home, but by breaking down the tasks into small steps there is no reason to feel overwhelmed. We've put together a simple 'to do' list to keep you on track in our journal, here.

Will I have to complete an AML and ID verification process?

Yes, Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and ID checks, are a legal requirement. We are obligated to ensure compliance with legislation and have partnered with Lifetime Legal, specialists in this field, to ensure this complex process is completed correctly for both buyers and sellers to avoid any surprises down the line. A charge of £48, including VAT, applies, covering all buyers in the transaction.

I've found a house I want to buy - but I need to sell my current home first?

No problem - simply book a valuation and a member of our team will come and have a look at your property; they'll be able to give you an idea of the market value and talk you through the next steps involved to put your house on the market quickly.

Where do I get a mortgage?

A mortgage consultant will help you secure the best possible deal for your personal circumstances. We work closely with Broadland Consultants; the team will guide you through the entire mortgage application process to get things processed efficiently and conveniently for your individual needs.

Stamp duty explained

If you buy a property or land over a certain value in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, you will pay Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT). The current threshold is £250,000 for residential property or land with full planning permission and £150,000 for non-residential land and property.

How do I find a solicitor?

A solicitor will deal with all the paperwork involved in your purchase, including managing essential requirements such as your 'searches' which have to be carried out by the relevant local authority.

We strongly advise using a locally based solicitor. In our experience this makes for a more timely and smooth transaction. We have an excellent panel of local solicitors we recommend based on their exceptional customer service and knowledge of buying a home in Norfolk.

If you would like a quote please call your local Sowerbys contact or email [email protected].

Max left the corporate world of Estate Agency in '94 to ensure every client received a first-class service - that ethos remains at our core.

Our branches across Norfolk are welcoming spaces where you can get comfortable, ask questions, and talk through your property plans - we're here to help.

So if you’re thinking about buying a home, and for you nothing beats speaking to us in person, please pop into your local branch and let us show you how we can guide you every step of the way.

We are local people ourselves, proud of the place we call home. As a family founded business for more than 30 years, we aim to deliver a family-like service which puts our customers at the heart of everything we do.

Our reputation is built on local knowledge, because we’re proud of the communities we are part of – and we can’t wait to welcome you into them too.

That’s why we support local charities, this year raising funds for Norfolk & Waveney Mind and Finnbarr’s Force. Last year, to mark our 30th anniversary, we raised more than £80,000 for causes across Norfolk.

Giving back has always been important to us, and with your support we are determined to continue making a meaningful impact.