Even experienced home owners find buying a property a complicated and confusing exercise, particularly as it's something most of us only do a few times in our life. For first time buyers, the process can be even more baffling.

Our simple guide takes you all the way from finding the right property to the day you move in. Just read on or select the area that interests you from the headings below.

Charcol is not authorised to offer investment advice.  We recommend you seek professional advice with regard to these topics if you believe they may affect you.