Buying Tips
The basic rule for buyers is do your homework first. Buying a home is probably 50% emotion & 50% practicality So at least try to get the practical things right if possible.
Step 1 - Make a list of your basic requirements:
- Number of bedrooms
- Proximity of schools or other community services
- Access to transport or any other particular area needs
- Assign a priority of each of these requirements to help you evaluate between different properties that might appear equally attractive
Step 2 - Do a property search:
- Browse the property listing database
- Nominate your preferred suburb & price range
- Drive around the areas you have chosen to get a feel for the suburb
- Note particular properties of interest & again try to find more information about them on the interest
- Note agent's signs & look for an agent who appears active in your chosen area
Step 3 - Inspecting the property:
- Check carefully for things of importance to you e.g. bedroom size or kitchen area
- Check also for alignment e.g. where does the sun rise or set during different times of the year
- Note if the road is busy at certain times e.g. school pick up or on weekends
- Don't forget to check out the neighbours either side plus at the rear & across the road. One reason people sell is because of them
Step 4 - Making an offer:
- Judge what you think the home is worth based on your personal experience
- Make an offer you feel comfortable with & don't be afraid to make your best offer first
- Don't make an offer far lower than you are reasonably prepared to pay as you will only offend the seller and make subsequent negotiation far harder
- Be prepared to pay more than you first budgeted for when you find the "right" home