Buying Tips

Finding a new home can be fun, but it is important to ask the right questions and do your research before you commit to any purchase. Here are some of the things you should consider as you embark on finding your new home. It’s just a starting point so please talk to your lawyer before taking the next step.

Tip 1: Go to open homes as early as possible Try to go to open homes as soon as you can. That way, if you’re really keen on a place, you’ve got time to see it again. Plus you’ve got more time to do your research (‘due diligence’), such as reading all the necessary reports, conducting inspections, arranging your finance and getting the legal paperwork sorted.

Tip 2: Take the brochures away with you When you’ve been through 10 open homes, it can be hard to remember which one had the breakfast bar and which one had the ensuite. Remember to take a pen so you can make your own notes about the property.

Tip 3: Look at the home privately Don’t be afraid to ring an agent for a private viewing. Even if the property has an open home advertised, you can sometimes visit a property privately. This is a good idea as you’ll most likely have the agent’s undivided attention and you might be able to use the opportunity to put in an offer before anyone else.

Tip 4: View the home at different times of the day Conditions can vary immensely at different times of the day especially relating to how sunny the property is, traffic congestion and noise factors from nearby schools, houses or businesses.

Tip 5:Get as much information as you can from the agent Find out all you can about the history of the property, the neighbours, zoning and schooling. Ask the agent if there are any disclaimers about the property and if there are any covenants or restrictions you should be aware of. Also get a copy of the council file, LIM Report, builders report or any other information that is available.

Tip 6: Talk to the neighbours They may be able to share information about the property and the surrounding area that the real estate agent doesn’t have.