2023 saw property prices continue to rise despite consistent interest rate rises and high inflation. As a result, the prospect of securing a property has become even more challenging. Here are our top 5 tips to help you get into the market sooner.
1. Pre-Approval
Before you even start going to open-homes, the first conversation you have should be with your bank. You don’t have to apply for pre-approval to buy a home, but in a highly competitive market things can change quickly and having a pre-approval in your back pocket can help make sure you don’t miss out.
Buyers with pre-approvals are more appealing to real-estate agents, as they know you are already committed to the process and can act quickly, which is a win-win for the buyer and seller.
2. Know what you want
Going out into the property market with a clear idea of what you want will help you to make decisions quickly and jump on opportunities. Whether you are buying alone, or with a partner, make a list of your non-negotiables and prioritise the rest.
What tops the list may vary depending on whether you are looking to purchase a home, or an investment property. Regardless, taking the time to think about things such as location, features and price will give you and your real estate agent a clear idea of what to look for.
3. Find the right agent for you
Finding the right agent to help you through the home buying process is also important. In a challenging market, effective agents can help fast-track the process and provide excellent guidance on what actions to take.
Do your research online, ask for recommendations from family and friends, and even meet with a few agents before deciding on the one for you.
4. Act quickly
Now this can be difficult, as the process of putting an offer on a home can be complex at times. However, if you have followed our first three tips you should be in a great position make your move and make it quickly.
With lots of buyers looking and few properties available, in some situations speed can be more important than anything else.
5. Make a strong and complete offer
Finally, in a strong property market it is important that your offer hits the mark. Taking into consideration price and speed, make sure that you come in with a strong offer the ability to follow-though quickly.
Pre-approvals, prepared documentation, and clear contingencies will help the seller make their decision quickly. Having to go back and forth to confirm figures and expectations can hinder the process and be a source of frustration for all involved.
What are contingencies?
Contingencies are clauses in real estate contracts regarding certain conditions which must be met before the sale can clear. This may include financing, inspections, and appraisals, but can vary on a case-by-case basis. Both parties can choose to waive certain contingencies, but this comes with its own risk.
Looking to make a move into the property market? Explore our value packed home loans and apply today to get your pre-approval in place! Visit movebank.com.au/homeloans to get started.
This blog post is for general information purposes only and is not intended as financial or professional advice. It does not have regard to the financial situation or needs of any reader and must not be relied upon as financial product or other professional advice. You should seek your own independent financial, legal and taxation advice before making any decision about any action in relation to the material in this article. Railways Credit Union Limited trading as MOVE Bank ABN 91 087 651 090. AFSL/ Australian Credit License number 234 536 | ABN 91 087 651
