Your internet history is full of real-estate websites, you have property listings cut out from your local newspaper, and every ‘FOR SALE’ sign you drive past catches your eye. There is no doubt about it: you are looking to become a homebuyer. This is one big step no one wants to trip on, so here are six of the most important things you need to know when you are on the hunt for a home.
1. Make Sure You Are Ready
For many people, ‘living the dream’ entails owning the house you call home. But you cannot let your aspirations fly faster than your reality. If your financial circumstances, career, or family life is not ready for you to make the move into home ownership, wait until the time is right. Being prepared for this commitment means having enough money for a deposit, an ability to save money regularly, a loan pre-approval, and spare cash up your sleeve.
2. Stick to Your Guns …
Some of the characteristics you need in your home are not negotiable. For example, the number of bedrooms might be vital for your growing family, or the location of your house might be crucial for your career development. Simply disregard any properties that do not meet your essential criteria.
3. … But Know When to Compromise
On the other hand, some of the traits you imagine in your ideal home are optional. Accept that you may not be able to afford a property that comes with everything you have dreamt of. Choosing a smaller house or compromising on some luxury features might be the wiser decision in the long run – especially if it means staying within your budget.
4. Find out for Yourself
There are plenty of places (online and off) where you can hear others’ personal opinions about certain areas and properties. However, to make an informed choice, you need to do the hard yards, conduct your own research, and discover how different potential homes compare – or at least enlist the assistance of a team that will keep you well in the loop as they explore your options on your behalf.
5. Understand Inspections Are Key
A house inspection is not simply a chance to casually observe the property’s superficial appearance. You need to appreciate that your inspections will play a vital role in determining whether or not you end up with the best home for you and your family. Ask all the tough questions, check each room thoroughly, and ensure all proper third-party inspections are performed correctly.
6. Have a Professional Agent on Your Side
When it comes right down to it, you are not a property expert. Even with all your efforts and good intentions, there are likely to be details you miss and negotiations that do not go as well as they could. For the best outcomes, you should certainly consider hiring a buyer’s agent to assist and represent you during this important phase of your life.
We hope these tips have given you some more insight into how you can best approach this tricky decision-making process. At Templeton Property, our buyer’s agents go above and beyond to secure the best outcomes for our clients. Discover more about how our buyer’s advocates can assist you or call us today on 07 3368 1988 or Sam Price directly on 0418 159 993 to discuss your needs.