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Buying a House in Brighton
Understanding Your Finances
Before diving into property listings, it's wise to get a handle on your financial situation. Check your credit score, as this will influence your mortgage options. Then, create a realistic budget, factoring in your deposit, monthly mortgage payments, and other costs like solicitor fees and surveys. As a house buyer or purchaser your financial standing will streamline your Brighton house hunt.
Saving for Your Deposit
Most lenders ask for a minimum deposit, usually 5-10% of the property's price. A larger deposit can secure better mortgage deals. If you're still saving, consider a Lifetime ISA, which offers government contributions. Every bit counts when aiming for favourable mortgage terms in Brighton.
First-time buyers in Brighton & Hove paid an average of £363,000 in August 2025, compared with £349,000 a year earlier. - Office For National Statistics
Securing a Mortgage in Principle
A Mortgage in Principle (MIP) shows sellers and estate agents your borrowing capacity. Having one demonstrates your seriousness as a buyer in Brighton's competitive market. Most lenders can provide an MIP relatively quickly, giving you a clearer idea of your price range.
Local business spotlight: Fox & Sons (Sussex)
Fox & Sons is a long-established estate agency brand in the Connells/Sequence group, with 50+ offices across the South Coast and multiple branches in Sussex for sales, lettings and mortgages. Their national Sequence network advertises through 320+ branches, which helps push listings to a wider buyer pool.
You’ll find Fox & Sons branches in key Sussex locations including Brighton (Western Road & Lewes Road), Hove, Preston Park, Kemp Town, Lewes, Seaford, Eastbourne, Haywards Heath and Burgess Hill, handy if you’re registering in more than one area.
Beyond listings, they offer mortgage services and a free “Help to Find” buyer service (they’ll canvass for properties that match your brief, even off-market), plus in-house photography, floorplans, EPCs, auctions and surveys, useful if you want a one-stop shop.
If you’re moving with us, we can coordinate viewings around your move plan and time key-handover days to match van arrival. For Brighton city-centre buyers, the Western Road office is central (BN1 2AD; 01273 777000) and easy to reach between viewings.
Note: Fox & Sons trades as a brand of Sequence (UK) Ltd; mortgage/insurance activity is regulated via Connells Ltd.
Exploring Brighton's Property Market
Brighton's property market is diverse, offering everything from apartments in The Laines to Victorian terraces in Hanover and modern homes in Hove. Consider location, neighbourhood vibe, proximity to work, schools, and transport. Think about amenities, green spaces, and whether you prefer a period property or new build, as well as leasehold versus freehold. Research different areas and market trends to ensure your investment has growth potential.
Leasehold vs Freehold: What's the difference
With a freehold you own the property and the land outright. You’re responsible for maintenance, you don’t pay ground rent or service charges to a landlord, and you can usually alter the home within planning/building rules.
With a leasehold you own the right to live in the property for a set term but not the land. Most flats in Brighton & Hove are leasehold. You’ll typically pay ground rent (if applicable) and service charges for communal areas, need consent for certain alterations, and the lease length matters for mortgages and resale value. Leases under 85–90 years often need attention; extending early is usually cheaper than waiting.
You may also see “share of freehold”, where flat owners jointly own the freehold; it still sits on a lease but gives more control over costs and management. “Commonhold” is rarer but means you own your unit outright and share responsibility for common areas through an association.
Making an Offer and Negotiating
Once you've found a suitable property, make an offer. Be prepared to negotiate, and don't hesitate to offer below the asking price if justifiable. Remember to make your offer subject to a successful survey and mortgage approval. In Brighton's fast-paced market, being decisive yet strategic is key.
Legal Aspects of Buying a House in Brighton
Instructing a Solicitor
A conveyancing solicitor is essential for handling the legal aspects of your purchase. They'll check contracts, property deeds, and conduct local authority searches. Choose a solicitor familiar with Brighton property transactions for smoother handling of any area-specific matters.
Property Surveys and Finalising Your Mortgage
Arrange a property survey to identify any structural issues. A Homebuyer's Report is usually sufficient for modern properties, while older properties may require a Full Structural Survey. Once your lender is satisfied, they'll issue your formal mortgage offer.
Exchange of Contracts
This is where things become legally binding. Both you and the seller will sign contracts, and you'll typically pay a 10% deposit. A completion date will be set, and backing out could result in losing your deposit.
Completion Day
Getting the Keys
On completion day, your solicitor transfers the remaining funds, and you receive the keys to your new Brighton home. Congratulations!
Planning Your Brighton Removals
With your new home secured, it's time to plan your move. Consider a professional Brighton removals company for a smoother transition. ESV Removals Ltd offers services like packing, transportation, furniture disassembly and reassembly, storage solutions, and careful handling of delicate items.
Why Choose Professional Brighton Removals?
Moving can be stressful. Professional movers can reduce the physical strain, save time, and ensure your possessions are protected. ESV Removals Ltd has experience with Brighton moves and can navigate the city's unique challenges.
Ready for Your Brighton Home Move?
Buying a home in Brighton is an exciting step. Consider these steps and professional removals services for a smooth transition. Contact ESV Removals Ltd to discuss your moving needs.
Tell us your dates and a short list of items. We’ll confirm access, parking and lift rules and send a fixed or capped plan for move day. Call 07552 555 820 or visit eastsussexvan.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much deposit do I need?
Most lenders start from 5–10%, with better rates at higher deposits.
Do I need a survey?
HomeBuyer’s is common for newer homes; older/quirky properties often merit a full structural survey.
Can you help if keys are delayed?
Yes, same-day storage handover and redelivery when you’re ready.
About the author...
Peter Hawes is the director of ESV Removals Ltd, a family run Brighton and Sussex removals team known for calm planning, careful handling and clear prices. Peter oversees every move from first message to the last box and brings local know-how for permit zones, tight stairwells and seafront buildings. ESV is fully insured with £20,000 Goods in Transit and £5 million Public Liability, recognised with two SME Southern Enterprise Awards in 2025 and backed by 280 plus five star Google reviews. The company follows an eco pledge that prioritises Esso Ethos fuel where available, reuses boxes and runs paperless bookings. Learn more at www.eastsussexvan.com or call 07552 555 820.
