TIPS FOR FIRST TIMERS: BUYING A FOREVER HOME
Buying a forever home? Make sure your upgrade goes the distance.
Nothing beats the thrill of buying that first home. The buzz of the auction, the nerve-wracking anticipation and the overwhelming sense of accomplishment when moving day is finally over.
When it comes to upgrading to a forever home, it’s wise to be just that little more level-headed. After all, this property will last lifetimes, build a full family; it’s worth giving everything more thought to ensure it’s the one.
Tips for Buying a Forever Home
Here are three key tips for first timers.
1. Location
Stereotypical, yes, but location is almost always the most important factor to consider. Proximity to schools for little and big ones, transportation, access to major arterials for ease of commuting to work, and let’s not forget the all-important shops and entertainment precincts. Parks, gardens, walking tracks, and of course, being close to friends and family; these are drawcards for any property purchase. It’s a huge decision so consider it wisely.
2. Opportunity to adapt and grow
Buyers might not always find their forever home comes complete with every design feature or living zone that matches their wish list. However, if they’ve got a keen eye and an interest in creating that once in a lifetime space, they make sure their next purchase allows them the opportunity to expand. Whether it be up or out, be open-minded about what could be.
3. Structural quality could break the budget
Upgrading to a forever home means having been in the sellers’ seat before. Prepping a home for sale requires a lot as a seller, everything from styling it to look and feel spacious and making it stand out from the crowd. It could require a few strategic moves to mask some niggly concerns. Whether the buyer is a first time buyer or a seasoned property buyer, it’s worth making sure that a new property is structurally sound and not too good to be true.
If a pre-purchase property inspection on a buyer's potential forever home shows matter that need addressing, they may be able to use it to negotiate their purchase price. And if there are too many issues that come to light, at least they can walk away before signing on the dotted line. Be hasty and rushing to buy a home, without a property inspection before purchasing, may cost so much more than necessary.
Engaging professionals is your best bet
Juggling the process of buying on the condition of selling a current home can be a challenging time, so homeowners must ready themselves. Contacting the bank, informing a conveyancer or lawyer of the plans, and getting an agent on board are essential first steps. With a team of professionals on their side, buyers will be equipped to make the big decisions that much easier.