Frequently Asked Questions

Start by getting a mortgage Agreement in Principle (AIP) — this shows sellers you're a serious buyer. Then register on Lengo Homes, set your search criteria, and book viewings. Once you've found a property you love, your agent will guide you through making an offer.

SDLT is a tax paid when you buy property in England and Northern Ireland above £250,000 (as of 2024). First-time buyers pay nothing on the first £425,000. Rates vary based on purchase price and whether you're a first-time buyer, home mover, or additional-property buyer. We recommend using the HMRC calculator for your exact figure.

From offer accepted to completion, the average is 12–16 weeks. It can be shorter in a chain-free transaction and longer in complex chains. Your solicitor and mortgage lender are typically the key factors in timing.

A survey is an independent assessment of the property's condition. While it's not legally required, it's strongly recommended. A Level 2 HomeBuyer Report is suitable for most standard properties; a Level 3 Building Survey is better for older or unusual properties.

Yes. Non-UK residents can purchase property in the UK, though mortgage availability may be more limited and you may face a 2% SDLT surcharge. Our advisers can help you navigate the options.

Standard requirements include: photo ID (passport or driving licence), proof of right to rent in the UK, last 3 months' bank statements, proof of income (payslips, or accounts if self-employed), and employer/previous landlord references.

The deposit is usually 5 weeks' rent for tenancies where annual rent is under £50,000 per year. This is protected in a government-approved Tenancy Deposit Scheme from the first day of your tenancy.

A legally binding contract between you (the tenant) and the landlord that sets out the terms of your tenancy — including rent, duration, responsibilities, and rules. Always read it carefully before signing.

Minor changes like picture hooks are usually fine. Any structural or decorative changes must be agreed in writing with your landlord before you start. Unauthorised changes can result in deductions from your deposit.

Our agents conduct a comparative market appraisal (CMA) — looking at recent sales of similar properties in your area, current market conditions, and the unique features of your home. We aim to price it to attract genuine interest, not just to flatter.

Yes. A valid EPC (rated A–G) is legally required before you can market your property for sale. If your property doesn't have one or the existing one has expired, we can arrange one for you.

Once you accept an offer, both parties instruct solicitors. The buyer arranges their mortgage and survey. Contracts are exchanged once all searches, enquiries, and mortgage conditions are satisfied. Completion follows — usually 1–4 weeks later.

A mortgage in principle (AIP/DIP) is an indicative statement from a lender saying they would lend you a certain amount, based on a soft credit check. A mortgage offer is the formal, legally binding offer made after a full application and valuation — this is what you need to exchange contracts.

LTV stands for Loan to Value — the size of your mortgage as a percentage of the property's value. A lower LTV (bigger deposit) usually unlocks better interest rates and more product choices. Most lenders offer their best rates at 60% LTV.

Yes, though your options may be more limited and rates higher. Several specialist lenders on our panel work with applicants who have County Court Judgements (CCJs), defaults, or a thin credit history. Our advisers can assess your situation honestly.

Listing creation is free. Our agents take a commission on successful sales or rentals — transparent, no-surprises fees that are discussed before you commit. There are no upfront charges.

Create a free account and click the heart icon on any listing. Saved properties appear in your Lengo Homes dashboard under "Favourites." You can also set up saved searches to receive email alerts when new matching listings appear.

Yes. We are fully GDPR compliant and never sell your data to third parties. Mortgage documents are stored securely and only accessible to you and the relevant team. You can read our full Privacy Policy for complete details.