Top 10 Steps To Find Your Ideal Home

Due to the fact that the current property market offers buyers a wide selection of homes to choose from, the selection process can sometimes be tough. While most buyers probably have a good idea of what they are looking for in a home, there are a few steps they should follow to help with their final selection:

1.         Make a wish list 

Write down everything you need and want in a property.

2.         Differentiate between wants and needs

Separate out items that fall into the wants category, which are the nice to haves but not essentials, from those that fall into the needs category, which are specifications that the buyer cannot compromise on.

3.         Work out affordability

Determining a price range is one of the most crucial steps in the selection process. Buyers need to figure out how much they would be able to afford on monthly costs, including bond repayments, maintenance, levies and rates, etc.

4.         Pre-qualify for a bond

Buyers will just end up wasting everyone's time by looking at homes that they cannot afford to purchase. By getting a pre-qualification on a bond, buyers will be able to determine whether or not they qualify for the necessary finance and will get an idea of the estimated amount that the financial institution would be willing to lend.

5.         Location

The emphasis on the importance of location remains as strong as ever. When looking at areas in which to purchase property,  buyers should consider what locations they need to reach regularly, how they plan to travel there and how long the journey will take.  Schools and other amenities will also play a large role in this step of the selection process for many buyers.

6.         Start the search

The internet is the ideal starting place to begin a house hunt, while local newspapers are also a good research tool for buyers. Buyers should also visit their local estate agents to ask what’s coming onto the market, or drive around their favourite areas to spot any for sale boards going up.

7.         Choose a good estate agent

It is essential for a buyer to find an expert to work with. Ask for referrals and interview various candidates in order to ensure you select an agent that is professional, experienced and ethical. It is also best to select an agent that has good knowedge of the areas in which you are thinking of buying a property.

8.         Learn the real estate market

The more knowledge a buyer has about the property market in which they are thinking of buying, the more equipped they will be to make an informed decision.

9.         Find out what is for sale

Aside from making a shortlist of the properties found online or through other channels, buyers need to match the list with all of their criteria including their accommodation requirements, price range and location. The next step is to set up appointments to view the properties on the shortlist and begin comparing them.

10.       Practice your patience

For some buyers, depending on their requirements, it may take time to find the ideal home. Buyers may look at everything for sale and not fall in love with anything. In cases like this, buyers should ask their estate agent to add them to their email list to receive notification of suitable listings as they come on the market. Patience here is key.