Why Are You Buying?

Think about why you are purchasing the property. If you intend living in the property does it really suit your needs? If you have young children or elderly people living with you, you might wish to avoid stairs and prefer a level block. Do you intend to install a pool in the future? Is the garden too big or too small? Will you need more bedrooms in future? Is it close to schools etc.

Building Reports

Be sure to have reports for building inspection and pest inspection prior to committing to the purchase.

Meet Your Neighbours

If you are buying a villa, apartment or townhouse you may be sharing a common wall with your neighbours. It would be advisable to check noise levels if possible. Try to meet your new neighbours. They may not share the same values as you.

Do Your Research

By researching the real estate market in a particular area you will be much better informed on property values. Ask your Power On agent to show you some comparable properties which have sold in the area.

Check With Your Local Council

If a property has been renovated recently you might wish to check with the local council to ensure planning or building permits were approved. Deciding how much to offer can be difficult. You might wish to make your best offer up front or start with a lower offer and be prepared to negotiate up. However, purchasers who make higher offers might secure the property without giving you the opportunity to increase yours.

Buying At Auction

If buying at auction you should have:

Decided on a definite upper limit within your means

Conducted inspections

Had legal documents checked by your solicitor

Organised a cheque for the deposit

Finance approved

When bidding, bid with confidence and authority.

Cooling Off Periods

Note colling-off periods can be waived subject to certain conditions.