A bit confused - buying my 'first' house

[Zaphodsotherhead]

I've put 'first' in inverted commas because any other house I've owned has been with a partner and I wasn't really involved in the purchases.

An inheritance from my mum means I will be able to afford to buy a place after 25 years of renting (the same house). My neighbour has offered to sell me her house, which she currently uses as a weekend cottage (used maybe fifteen times a year, a week at a time).

I'll be moving out of my rented house so there's no chain. Please can you tell me what I need to do in terms of solicitors, paperwork etc? Hoping to move around September time, it will be a cash purchase, no mortgage involved.

Your solicitor will explain everything to you and guide the process. I'd suggest asking friends and family for recommendations. There are big companies which offer cheaper services, but communication is only by phone/email and a lot of people find them slower (you usually talk to call handlers rather than your solicitor) - I preferred paying a bit more, speaking to the actual solicitor, and having an office I could potentially go to if needed (for example, DH was able to hand deliver some signed documents that were urgently needed after he forgot to post them for a week ).
You should still get a survey, for your peace of mind.
September may be a bit of a push - that's only 6-10 weeks - but possible provided your local council aren't super slow with their searches etc. and you and your vendor complete and return all paperwork promptly.

So as mentioned, your solicitor will guide you. I’d also stress the imprortance of getting a survey done.

The HOA website has a good guide for buyers, with more detailed guides linked on choosing a solicitor and what actually happens during conveyancing: hoa.org.uk/advice/guides-for-homeowners/i-am-buying/the-hoa-step-by-step-guide-to-buying-a-home/

Definitely get a full structural survey to protect your investment. Even more important when it's all of your money and no mortgage.

Oh yes, the survey is planned, thank you. And good advice re a solicitor I can drop in and see - I think we've got a conveyancing one in our tiny town, I shall make an appointment.

Thanks, chaps.