Once you have choosen the area you want to live in, start to check agent's websites regularly and in local newspapers.

Take contact and register with estate agents and show them your written ‘offer of principle' that you got from your mortgage lender. They will then call you regularly and show you many homes.

To make sure that the agent doesn't forget you, call them regularly. Some thought after properties are coming up on the market and are not all the time advertised. Stay in touch regularly, be punctual and polite when visiting properties, the agents will be more enclined to see you as a serious buyer and to call you as soon as something suitable comes up.

Don't forget the the agents are paid by the seller. You will be able to propose a buying price and the agent has the obligation to transmit any offer to the seller. Also, he will be able to advise you if the offered price is to low and will sure be refused.