5 Constructive Showday Tips
Category Buying & Selling Tips
Buying a new home can be an equally exciting and daunting prospect. It is also a highly emotional experience and new home buyers can get caught up in the moment and forget to apply themselves to important logical considerations. For your convenience we have highlighted just five for you to bear in mind:
Location
It doesn’t matter how spectacular, quirky, outrageous or beautiful the house and garden are, if the location is wrong the house will not be a good investment. Give some thought to whether or not the area is well connected in terms of infrastructure – proximity of arterial roads, schools, shops, places of work. Ask the agent about future developments, and take note of empty pieces of land and new developments in the area. Don’t be afraid to ask lots of questions and double-check the information given to you.
Property values in the area
ask the agent for a comprehensive list of recent sales in the area. If sale prices are declining this could be an important consideration. A bargain is not always what it seems.
Thorough home inspection
This applies to both old and new homes. Get a realistic idea of maintenance or renovation costs, and clarify any concerns you may have prior to submitting an offer. This will address areas of concern such as low water pressure, possible flooding after heavy storms, damp, proximity of trees to the house.
Neighbours, traffic noise and barking dogs
It is a good idea to view a property at different times of the day and week. Inconsiderate neighbours, busy traffic and neglected pets can become an irritation.
Crime
No area will ever be crime free and ultimately we are all responsible for our own security, but a lack of security in an area is not necessarily an indication of low crime. Check the crime statistics for the area.
There are many other factors to consider when buying a home. Make a checklist of your primary needs such as internet/fibre connectivity, proximity to schools, distance to work, storage requirements in both the kitchen and the bedrooms, flow of entertainment areas, safe stairs for children and elderly people. Buying a new home can be both a smart expense and a good investment - think with your head first, and then with your heart.
Let us know if you are looking to buy or sell, and we can offer you our expert advice.
Author: Jonathan Broekman
