First time buyer advice

[LovelyBitOfHam]

Inspired by an AIBU thread…

Im single, early 30s and living with parents. I currently earn around 35k, so not much, but that’s not a ceiling and can rise if I pull my finger out.

I have around 150k saved up but still feel I can’t afford a house due to my low salary.

I’d be happy to put 120k-130k down as a deposit and would be looking for a small two bedroom house in a nice area.

Is there anywhere in the Manchester or East Cheshire area that could see me buy? Ultimately somewhere that isn’t Oldham, Wigan etc.

When I say I can’t afford it people look at me like I’m mad, but truly I don’t see how I can.

Also remember you can get a lodger and the income is free from tax up to £7500, and there are no worries about renting out a room officially or being stuck with someone long term. I'm not sure but you used to also get a cheaper mortgage by doing this.

I think the only issue I have now is deciding where to buy! Many of the places with more affordable housing are places I haven’t even visited before, so I have some thinking to do.

When I first bought in Manchester I plugged my budget into Right Move and just started investigating areas I’d never been to as well!

I ended up moving to an area I’d never even heard of beforehand but it was a good move & I stayed there almost ten years, keep an open mind and enjoy nosing about and seeing where you end up :)

Thanks, I used to be a lodger so I’ve always considered this. But I also love my own space so I think it’s something I’ll have to consider at the time!

Thanks! There are some places around Cheshire which seem nice but not too expensive.