Buying a home is one of life’s biggest decisions—whether you’re upgrading, downsizing, or investing. Taking the right steps before you start house hunting can make the process smoother, help you avoid costly mistakes, and position you for the best deal.
Here are 5 smart moves to set yourself up for success before buying your next property.
1. Get Your Finances in Order 💰
Before you start looking at homes, make sure you know your numbers.
✅ Get pre-approved so you know exactly how much you can borrow.
✅ Understand your loan options—fixed vs. variable, offset accounts, etc.
✅ Factor in extra costs like stamp duty, legal fees, and moving expenses.
💡 Pro Tip: Even if you’ve bought before, lending rules and interest rates change. It’s worth checking if you can negotiate a better deal!
2. Define Your Priorities 🏡
Buying a home is exciting, but it’s easy to get sidetracked by shiny features (hello, luxury kitchens!) and forget about what truly matters.
✅ Location vs. Lifestyle: Do you want space, convenience, or a mix?
✅ Must-Haves vs. Nice-to-Haves: Essentials like bedrooms vs. dream features like a pool.
✅ Long-Term Suitability: Will this home still fit your needs in 5-10 years?
💡 Pro Tip: Be clear on your non-negotiables before house hunting—this saves time and helps you act fast when you find the right property.
3. Research the Market 🔍
Understanding the market means knowing when to buy, where to buy, and what’s in demand.
✅ Check recent sales in your preferred areas.
✅ Attend open homes to see what’s available in your budget.
✅ Consider growth potential—is the suburb likely to increase in value?
💡 Pro Tip: If your ideal location is out of budget, consider up-and-coming areas with similar benefits but better affordability.
4. Be Ready to Act Fast ⏳
Great homes don’t sit on the market for long. If you find “the one,” you need to be ready to make a move.
✅ Have your deposit & finance ready.
✅ Set up alerts to new listings before they hit the market.
✅ Know your negotiation strategy—a strong first offer can make a big difference.
💡 Pro Tip: Some properties sell off-market (before they’re publicly listed). Working with local agenta gives you access to these exclusive opportunities.
5. Think Long-Term Investment 📈
Buying a home isn’t just about today—it’s about your future. Whether it’s your dream home or a stepping stone, consider:
✅ Resale value: Will the home be in demand if you sell in the future?
✅ Rental potential: If your situation changes, could you rent it out easily?
✅ Upcoming infrastructure: Schools, transport, and shopping precincts all impact property values.
💡 Pro Tip: Even if you’re buying a “forever home,” making a smart investment choice can pay off in the long run.
Final Thoughts: Buy Smarter, Not Harder
Whether you’re upgrading, downsizing, or investing, being prepared before house hunting puts you in the best position to secure your ideal home with confidence.
Thinking about buying? We can help you navigate the market and make the right move.
📞 Contact Shawn & Kym Real Estate today to start your property search!