The path to owning a home can be thrilling, daunting and frustrating, often all at the same time. We can help you make sense of it, so you’ll have a clearer idea of what may need to be done and when, with a nudge or two on things you might not have thought about.
Before you move
First, there’s the dream. Saving for a deposit. Then viewings, mortgage applications and offers. Suddenly, the buying process is in full swing. The journey might feel chaotic at times, and we can offer some pointers along the way.
The basics of property buying
When you’re new to all this, it may be useful to get a sense of the way forward. Here’s a broad view of how buying works in the UK, along with a couple of things to consider in your property choice.
Your home moving checklist
They’ve accepted your offer! Yes, it’s time to celebrate a little, and then a few tasks lie ahead. Here’s what to expect, and how your purchase will play out from here.
Do you need life insurance with your mortgage?
This can feel like yet another cost at an already expensive time. Read more about why people take it out, why some mortgage lenders insist on it, and our 90 days of free house purchase cover.
Buildings vs contents insurance
There are two strands to home insurance, one is for the property itself and the other covers what’s inside. As a homeowner, you might now need both.
Check your contents insurance still fits 
When upsizing or moving in together, you may suddenly have plenty more to insure. Our calculator gives an idea of whether the cover you have stretches far enough for all the things in your home.
How much life insurance could you need?
Our calculator provides a simple way to work out how much life insurance you may need to help cover your mortgage.
What I wish I'd known
We’ve pulled together plenty of first-hand tips buyers would have given themselves if they could turn the clock back. Here are some that could save money further down the road.
Tips for buyers
You've got the keys!
At least some of the moving boxes are empty, you may have furniture on order and it’s time to get to know your new place. And, yes, you’re allowed to feel pride, because placing a foot firmly on the property ladder is no small achievement.
Tips for recent movers
Refresh your budget
Refresh your budget This may not be the most fun part, but it’s worth creating a household budget, or updating the one you have, for a clear view on all your new bills and outgoings (and how much you have to spend on lovely things for your home).
Protect your pride and joy
Protect your pride and joy Should something burst or break and cause damage, home emergency cover could cushion your finances from those unexpected costs of putting it right.
Start thinking about renovations
Start thinking about renovations When you’re ready to begin transforming your new place into your dream home, our checklist offers a handy starting point – and food for thought – for your project.
Looking further ahead
Once you’ve owned your home for months, or even years, your thoughts may turn to your long-term finances, and how your property fits into that. These are some key considerations that may crop up further down the line.
To overpay or invest?
Mortgage lenders often let you pay more than you need to, which could reduce how long your mortgage lasts or the total amount you pay back. But is that the best way to go, or are there other options for you?
Helping to protect your income
With mortgage payments coming out every month, covering at least part of your income if you’re unable to work could be a way to make yourself more resilient.
Thinking about your health
As responsibilities grow – especially if you have children – you might focus more on your mental and physical wellbeing. With health cover, you could get diagnosis and treatment more quickly.
Planning your estate
Your property will likely form a major chunk of what you pass on when you’re gone. There’s a lot to consider here, not least inheritance tax. Financial advice can help you shape and sharpen these plans.
A life partner like no other
We’re uniquely placed to support you through those big moments in your life. Here are some of the reasons why.
We'll give you up to 10% off when you take out another policy with us if you're an existing customer.Footnote 1
We've got heritage. We've been protecting people’s homes for 325 years.
21.7 million people in the UK trust us with the things that matter most (as of February 2026).Footnote 2
From home insurance to life insurance and beyond, you can manage your Aviva products online with MyAviva.
Products that keep up with you
Our expertise stands alongside a wide range of insurance, investments and savings that can bring all your future plans together.
