House-hunting requires time and effort and there’s nothing more exciting than finding your dream home.
The best way to fast track this process is to make a list of your priorities before even stepping out the door to go and see a property.
Knowing your “must-haves” and nice-to-haves” helps ensure your agent only shows you suitable properties, and they can quickly rule out those that don’t fit the bill.
Follow these top tips to help you navigate the property market and ensure your journey is completed as quickly and successfully as possible.
Your budget
Organize a pre-approved loan as this will give you a budget. However, be aware interest rates are constantly on the move: they go up and down, sometimes in the same week. So, your final loan may be slightly more or less than your pre-approval.
Size matters
Have a good idea of your next home’s size. Talk to your agent about the square footage and number of bedrooms. Clarity here will prevent walk-throughs of properties that are too small. Of course, marrying the desired size with your budget will determine what you can afford.
Prioritize location
Make a shortlist of desirable neighborhoods and the amenities and services that should be easily accessible. It’s best if you have several options because you can’t always find the dream home on the perfect street in the ideal neighborhood.
Style guru
Your search can be even more precise if you decide on the style of home you’re seeking. Are you looking for an older, established house or a newly-built apartment or home? Other essential factors might include parking, a garden and an outdoor entertainment area.
Don’t rely on memory
Take notes on each property you visit, and keep the web address for the relevant online advertisements. Make a copy of your priority list and tick each element off as you see them. Ask for a floor plan. After you’ve visited four or five homes, they can start to blur into one. Your notes and the floor plan will help.