Being a savvy buyer can get you a better deal and there are a few tips worth following.
- The most important thing is to do your research. Check out all the available data on recent sales, talk to a variety of agents, explore the neighbourhood and speak to neighbours. This will help you ascertain what the property is worth and what you're prepared to pay for it.
- Visit the area to check out the schools, shopping, culture, transport and the like. Also speak to the council about any proposed developments or infrastructure which may affect the value of your property in the future.
- Create a realistic wish list of property attributes and try to stick to property within your budget which meet your most important criteria, whether it be parking, proximity to schools, a quiet street or a large garden. This will help to ensure you’re happy with your purchase long term.
- Always obtain building and pest reports on any property that you’re seriously interested in, for total peace of mind.
- Organise your finance well in advance and obtain conditional approval. That way you’ll know approximately how much you can afford to pay and will be ready to act as soon as you find a suitable property. Most lending institutions and mortgage brokers will come to you to make this process as simple as possible.