Things to Do in March for Buyers in Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Exmoor

March is one of the most active times of year for the property market, making it a great moment to get organised if you are planning a move. With more homes often coming onto the market in spring, buyers have a good opportunity to review their options, sharpen their search and act with confidence. In this guide, we cover the key things to do in March for buyers, from sorting your budget and mortgage paperwork to booking viewings and narrowing down the right area. Whether you are buying in Barnstaple, Bideford, Launceston, Minehead or Braunton, a clear plan can help you stay ahead.

Key takeaways

• March is a good time to prepare for a busy spring property market.
• Buyers should confirm budgets, mortgage position and preferred locations early.
• A clear checklist can help you move faster when the right property appears.
• Local knowledge matters when comparing towns, villages and coastal areas.
• Being organised can make your offer more attractive to sellers.

What are the main things to do in March for buyers?

1. Review your budget properly

Before arranging viewings, take a close look at your moving budget. This should include more than just the purchase price. Buyers should also think about deposit funds, legal costs, survey costs, removals and any immediate work the property may need after completion.

March is a useful point in the year to reset your plans and make sure your figures are realistic. If you started your search earlier and prices in your chosen area have shifted beyond your original expectations, it may be time to adjust your target locations or property type. At Webbers we work closely with independent financial advisors to help you with the cost of moving. Click here to get in touch 

Being realistic from the outset can save time and help you focus on homes that genuinely fit your circumstances.

2. Get a mortgage agreement in principle

One of the most practical things to do in March for buyers is to arrange a mortgage agreement in principle if you have not done so already. This gives you a clearer sense of what you may be able to borrow and shows sellers that you are serious.

For first-time buyers especially, this can make the whole search feel more structured. It can also help you act quickly if a suitable home comes onto the market during the spring rush.

It is sensible to speak with a mortgage adviser for tailored guidance based on your own circumstances.

3. Define your must-haves before the spring market gets busier

March can bring more choice, but more choice can also mean more indecision. Before you start or restart your search, write down what matters most.

Think about:

• Location
• Budget ceiling
• Number of bedrooms
• Parking or garage needs
• Outdoor space
• Distance to work, schools or transport links
• Scope for improvement
• Coastal, rural or town setting

This helps you avoid viewing homes that are unlikely to work and keeps your search focused.

4. Research the areas you are considering

A home search should always include area research, not just property research. Buyers often begin with a broad target region and then narrow it down once they understand what each place offers day to day.

For example, someone looking in North Devon may compare Barnstaple, Braunton, Bideford and South Molton for different reasons. In Cornwall, areas such as Bude, Launceston and surrounding villages can appeal for lifestyle, commuting or schooling. In Somerset and Exmoor, buyers may weigh up places like Minehead, Dulverton or rural fringe locations depending on whether they want convenience, scenery or space.

Look beyond the listing photos and consider how you want to live.

A March checklist for serious buyers

Sort your paperwork early

A simple but often overlooked item on the list of things to do in March for buyers is to get your paperwork in order. This can include proof of identity, proof of address, bank statements, evidence of deposit and any mortgage-related documents.

Having everything ready can reduce delays once you find the right property.

Register with local estate agents

If you are actively looking, make sure you are registered for property alerts with agents covering your preferred towns and villages. This can help you hear about suitable homes quickly and stay informed about new instructions.

Webbers can help you understand your options, register for Webbers property alerts, and explore the areas that best match your plans.

Book viewings efficiently

Spring can be busy, so it helps to cluster viewings where possible and compare properties with a consistent checklist. Take notes after each viewing and focus on the points that matter most to you, such as layout, condition, natural light, outside space and parking.

If you are viewing several homes in one day, clear notes can stop properties from blending into one another.

Review how much work you are willing to take on

March often brings a mix of homes to market, from ready-to-move-into properties to houses that need updating. Be honest about your appetite for projects.

A property with potential can be appealing, but buyers should think carefully about timescales, budget and disruption before taking on major renovation work. The right choice will depend on whether you want a straightforward move or are happy to improve a home over time.

Why March can be a smart month to buy

More choice can come to the market

Spring is traditionally a popular season for moving, which can mean more homes become available compared with quieter points in the year. That wider choice can be helpful if you are still refining what you want.

Sellers may be motivated

Some sellers list in March because they want to make progress before summer. That does not mean every seller will move quickly, but motivated vendors can make for smoother conversations when a buyer is well prepared.

You can plan around the rest of the year

Buying in March can also put you in a stronger position for the months ahead. Whether your goal is to move before the school summer holidays, settle in before autumn or simply avoid leaving your plans until later in the year, starting now can give you more flexibility.

Things to do in March for first-time buyers

For first-time buyers, March is an ideal time to build momentum. A practical starting point is to understand what you can afford, how much deposit you have available and what ongoing monthly costs might look like.

It is also worth deciding where you can be flexible. For example, you may be able to compromise on decorative condition, but not on location or parking. Or you may choose a smaller home in a stronger long-term location over a larger property farther out.

First-time buyers often benefit from support at each stage, from arranging finance to understanding the buying process and booking viewings with confidence.