Plenty of advice is given to first homebuyers about selecting a property and how to handle the transaction, but little attention is paid to explaining a few important tasks that are necessary after taking possession.
First homebuyers remain one-third of the buyer market and their active participation bolsters values in the lower market quartile.
Their activity at the cheaper end of the market – together with investors – gives the market a value platform on which more expensive properties also benefit in terms of price.
When first-time buyers pull out of the market, everyone else’s property values suffer.
As a first homebuyer, it’s easy to get starry-eyed about your new purchase and focus on all the fun things – buying new furniture and pictures for the walls, and perhaps installing fresh carpet or resealing the floorboards.
Most first homebuyers tend to not even consider some of the fundamentals that come with owning your home. So, our agents have highlighted seven key pieces of advice.
Are you covered? – Your conveyancer or solicitor will have surely mentioned the property must be insured. Each state has different rules for when you should take insurance once you’ve agreed to buy. We’re just saying don’t let this slip through the cracks.
Get connected – Companies like DirectConnect can handle these utility connections. Our agents can provide you with their contact information. This process includes several essential tasks, such as setting up electricity, water, council services, gas, and internet.
Renovations – Plan to finish initial improvements before you move in. If you’re new to the area, ask the agent to recommend local contractors. We’d recommend waiting six months before making any major changes. That way, you’ll understand how you actually live in the property.
Deep clean – Consider hiring a professional company to do a deep clean before you move in. If you’ve bought an apartment, this is more manageable. It’s a great idea for a house, however.
Lock it in – Once you have the keys, you should change the locks for your own safety and peace of mind. You just don’t know who has copies and what they might do. Does that sound paranoid? We’ll let you decide.
Garage door – Ask the agent to reprogram the garage remote before you move in. Again, it’s a safety and security measure. If you’re going to use an app, make sure your phone can reprogram it.
Kid friendly – If you have a young family, childproof your home by adding childproof locks to cabinets that store medicine on cleaning fluids. If you have stairs, install gates.