Whether planning a new career or simply hoping to start a new chapter in your life, moving into a new place can be both exciting and stressful. The average UK housing price is currently £160,224 down from £200,000 at the peak of the housing boom - according to Nationwide's House Price Index. Which means now may be a good time to move.

Follow our tips for first time home buyers.

1. Location, location, location

Remember that one of the most important aspects of a home's value is the area it's in. Research the neighbourhood profile and check for good transport as well as schools. If you're finding property too expensive consider buying a home that needs some work, or look slightly outside your preferred area for a better bargain.

Read our guide to choosing a local area for more advice.

2. Property wishlist

Before you start looking for a property make a list of everything you want and need in a home. Use this as a base guide when hunting for properties to help focus your search - 73% of UpMyStreet users would choose a garden rather than an extra bedroom, for example.

3. Budget

Before you start looking at properties, calculate how much you can realistically afford. Consider other expenses involved when buying a property, including stamp duty, surveying, conveyancing and local authority searches.

4. Choosing a mortgage

Banks are now requiring higher deposits from buyers as the credit crunch has demanded they enforce more stringent lending criteria. Calculate your monthly costs (utilities, credit cards, groceries etc) and subtract that amount from your monthly income; this is roughly what you will have left for mortgage payment.

Consider these rules: the purchase price should be around 2.5 times your joint annual income and your mortgage payment should be less than 28% of your gross monthly income, so compare lenders and deals.

5. Estate agents

A good estate agent can access invaluable market information before the public, knowing the homes just on the market and comparable prices. Ask family and friends for referrals and seek someone who is well connected, understands your needs and has experience with homes in your area and price range.

6. See what's available

You can search for property online. Check regularly for information such as the address, photos and details, age, square footage, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, taxes and schools districts.

It is also worth looking through the local newspapers for the latest listings in that area.

7. Viewing

As viewings do not usually last long take a checklist with you outlining what you should be looking for and what you should be asking. Take a tape measure to ensure your belongings will fit and check the property for damp or any repair work that needs doing.

Ask the agent to provide you with a copy of the HIP (Home Information Pack) which includes energy rating and property information.

8. Making an offer

Don't be afraid to put in an offer lower than the asking price, particularly if the property has been on the market for a while. You can gauge how fair an asking price is by comparing with recent sales in the area or purchasing a property valuation report for an instant valuation. Both can be good tools for negotiation.

9. The buying process

Once your offer has been accepted, the legal and financial legwork begins. You need to:

• Complete your mortgage application with your lender, who will check your credit and finances before granting approval
• Instruct a solicitor to manage the legal side of buying the property
• Arrange for a survey on the property to check its structure
• Pay for other costs including stamp duty, local authority searches and Land Registry costs
• Sign and exchange contracts

You can pull out of the sale at any time before exchange.

10. Moving

Once contracts have been exchanged, start planning your move - our moving checklist will help you get organised. Find local removal companies, hire vans and arrange storage if needed.