Newly single parent - mortgage fees?

[humpetyhump]

Hi all,

I am about to become a single mum.

I will be looking to buy a mortgaged flat.

I am just wondering if anyone had any advice for single parents buying a property for the first time?

Also, does anyone have a rough estimate of the total fees involved? Stamp duty, solicitors, surverying etc.

Any advice appreciated!

I'd use a broker. The one I used hit me a good deal and was proactive when my fixed rate was up and hit me another good deal. I don't care if he gets a commission - I don't have to pay him myself and the deal was better than the 'best buy' in the Times finance pages.
Rough figures: for full survey on a terraced house about £800-1200, solicitor fees (total), about £1200. But they are required to tell you how much it will be before you engage them. Stamp duty will depend on price of property but there are online calculators. Then there's moving costs.