Life can be tough for buyers. There are endless property inspections that never seem to be suitable, auction stress and heartbreak and anxiety about mortgage approvals. It’s easy to feel that you’ll never find the right property.
But you might be surprised by how many buyers behave in ways that make it even more difficult to help them. We’ve outlined the most common mistakes we see buyers making, and how to avoid them.
Provide incomplete contact information
Real estate agents cop a lot of flak about being uncontactable or for failing to return calls. But you’d be surprised by just how many buyers provide incomplete contact information when filling in their details online or at an open for inspection. Providing your details accurately makes it easier for agents to help you. If there comes a time when you don’t wish to be called, just ask to be removed from the list.
Judge the furniture not the house
As agents, we advise all our sellers to present their house as beautifully as possible to maximise its value. But you’d be amazed at some of the comments this can elicit from potential buyers who are often offended when advised that the wrong shade in the bedroom won’t bring the price down. Remember, you are buying the house, not the taste of the previous owner. Try to see ‘through’ the furnishings, flooring, and colour schemes to see the ‘bones’ of the property. You can always paint and recarpet to match your own personal taste once you’re the proud owner.
Expect the agent to act for them
Agents are obliged to take every reasonable offer to their vendors, so if you make a serious offer, it will certainly be given a good representation. But many buyers cross the line and expect the agent to meet their negotiation demands or hold the agent responsible for not helping them get the property at the cheapest price possible. It’s the job of an agent to get the best price for their vendor first and foremost. The best way to play this is with a straight bat. Make realistic offers based on what you genuinely believe the property is worth. When you’ve reached your limit, be upfront. If you need help from an agent to buy a property, consider hiring a buyers agent.
Are overly suspicious of agents
It is a sad truth that there is a small proportion of the real estate industry who do not behave well and probably as a buyer, you have run into one of them. But please don’t let that affect your opinion of all agents. The majority are keen to offer great service to buyers and behave with transparency and integrity. Stay polite and clear in all your communication, provide your contact details so we can reach you if we find something worth considering and take our calls when we reach out to you.