If you are stressed about buying your first home is scary, take a breath. I know the feeling. Borrowing money. Banks saying no. Getting ripped off. It is a huge step. However the greatest thing you will ever do. Owning a home is security. No landlord. Get a dog. Your castle.
Gawler is the perfect place for first home buyers. The reason?. Prices are reachable. It is possible to find affordable options. Look for that in the city. You can't. But in Gawler, buy a property with a yard that is affordable. We have land. Choices exist.
But you need a guide. The process is tricky. Banks, brokers, agents. It is a maze. As a real estate agent gawler, I love first home buyers. I have patience. I don't mind the questions. I want to see you win. Let's walk through how to do it without the stress.
The Anxiety Of The Deposit Hurdle
The deposit is the hardest part. Getting that lump sum paying a landlord is tough. But you have to do it. Or do you?. Options. Low deposit schemes. A tiny deposit. Ask the bank. You could buy now.
Parents can help. Parental help secure the loan zero cash if they have equity. It is a big ask. Many do it. You avoid the insurance fee. This can save $10,000+. Consider it.
If you must save, be disciplined. Every dollar counts. Keep going. Settlement day you will forget the sacrifice. Stay focused. The house is there.
Talking To Brokers And Banks
Before you look before the loan. See a broker. Not just a bank. They compare. Lowest rate for you. Get an AIP. This is a letter you can spend a specific limit.
Why do you need this? Power. When you walk into an open, you are serious. Putting in a bid, You are a contender. If you say "I haven't been to the bank," I can't accept. A pre-approved buyer beats the others.
It costs nothing. They get commission. Use them. It tells you your limit. Stop dreaming outside your range. It is sad. Be realistic.
Understanding The Hidden Costs
The sticker price is not the only cost. Extras. The big tax. In SA, it is expensive. Calculate it. Good news, for newbies, there is relief if you build (verify this). On established homes, it applies. Budget for it.
Settlement agent. Building inspection. Loan costs. Removalist. Utility connections. It costs thousands. Have spare cash. Keep a reserve on the deposit. Money is needed to move.
I can help. I can give you a rough guide the total. I have contacts reliable people. Don't get caught out. Knowledge is power.
What To Look For At Open Inspections
Viewing homes, look past the furniture. Furniture leaves. Look at the bones. Check the walls Look up. Look at frames. Mold smell?. Traffic sound?.
Don't fall in love with the cushions. Fall in love the location. Renovate later. Location is fixed. Your starter, opportunity. The fixer-upper is the winner. Improve it. The shiny one you pay for the work. Buy potential.
Get a report. Must do. Cheap insurance. Protects you. Structural damage, be aware before it is yours. If it fails, cancel (check contract). Avoid disaster.
How To Negotiate As A Buyer
Putting it in writing is scary. How much? Don't offer too low. You lose. Don't waste money. Ask. "Where is the interest?." I can't reveal offers, but I will guide you. "If you offer $400k, you will miss out." Listen to the hints.
Make it formal. Talk are weak. Paperwork is powerful. You are a buyer. It is tangible. It helps to accept. Be brave.
If it sells to another, don't cry. Next one. Use the lesson. Were you too slow? Fix it next time. Experience helps. Persist. You will get one. Let me assist. Welcome you home. My favourite moment. Let's make it happen.
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