You have secured thatpre-approval, you have your deposit ready to go, and you are about to commence some house hunting – the fun part of the home buying process! There are a few things you can do to make the process of house hunting as smooth as possible.
We have gathered our top 5 tips for first home inspections!
1. Go Early
If there is a property that catches your eye, go to its open homes as soon as possible. Therefore, you can visit the house again if you decide you really like it. It also gives you time to do your ‘due diligence’ such as viewing reports and conducting inspections.
2. Consider its Location
Make sure you are clear on your desired location. We don’t just mean the property’s suburb. Ensure you have considered what nearby amenities are your negotiables and non-negotiables. For example, does the property have shops and cafes nearby? What is the local community like? Is the house on a busy street or near a school?
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Perfect Neighborhood
3. View the Property Privately
If you want to view the property privately, don’t hesitate to contact the agent to ask to see the property outside the open home. This can give you the opportunity to have the agent available to answer any questions and it can be a good chance to put in an offer before anyone else.
4. Get Professional Checks
It is important to check the conditions of the property are appropriate and meet your expectations. If an unconditional offer goes through, you are likely not going to be able to request that changes are made if you discover any problems. You can request a builder’s report. These are some things to look for:
- Building materials of the house
- Heating and insulation
- Roof, ceiling and walls
- Any cracks or erosion
- Electrical wiring
- Piles
- Paving
- Plumbing
A builder’s report can help paint a clear picture of the structural and building condition of the property.
Consider getting a LIM report (Land Information Memorandum) which summarises the information that the council has on the property. This is especially important if you think the property has undergone renovations that would have required consent from the local council.
5. Chat to Neighbours
If you have found a property that you are keen on, it may be a good idea to talk to the neighbours. They will likely be able to provide insight on the property and local area that the real estate agent doesn’t have.
6. Consider the Property’s Insurance Options
You want to make sure that the home you purchase can be insured. Jump on Money Compare to compare different house insurance options and make sure you get the right amount of coverage for the property.
Don’t Forget to Compare Home Loans
If you are at the start of the home buying process, it’s imperative that you do your research regarding home loans and finances. Money Compare makes it easy to compare home loans, so that you can get a better idea of the current market, and the available interest rates. Here at Money Compare, we are all about helping Kiwis make the best choices possible with their hard-earned money. That is why we can help match you with a mortgage broker, who can be your sounding board and guiding light through the often overwhelming and sometimes confusing home buying process. Simply request a free call back by clicking the button below and a fully qualified mortgage adviser will be in touch.
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