There’s nothing quite like the buzz of house hunting. Scrolling through listings, picturing your future lifestyle, and visiting open homes can be an exciting part of the journey towards property ownership.

But before you get caught up in choosing your ideal home, it’s crucial to make sure you’ve covered all the essentials behind the scenes. A bit of prep now can save a lot of stress later, especially once contracts come into play.

Have your finance sorted ahead of time

One of the biggest steps you can take before starting your search is securing a home loan pre-approval. Chat with your mortgage broker or lender early so you understand your borrowing power and can move quickly when the right home pops up.

Keep in mind that pre-approvals generally come with an expiry date, so if you’re searching over a few months, check in regularly to ensure your finance is still current. An expired pre-approval can hold up your purchase, or worse, see you miss out altogether.

Agents often ask about your finance status during inspections or enquiries. Having a pre-approval in place not only gives you confidence but shows sellers you’re serious.

Line up your legal support early

If you haven’t already, now’s the time to find a solicitor or licensed conveyancer. They’ll play a key role throughout your purchase, from reviewing contracts to guiding you through settlement.

Having someone on standby early means they’re ready to step in as soon as you’re ready to make an offer. They’ll also help flag any legal considerations or conditions you might not be aware of.

Don’t skip your own inspections

Some properties may already come with pest and building reports included in the listing pack or provided by the agent. While these are handy for an overview, it’s still worth booking your own independent inspections for peace of mind.

A professional pest and building inspection can uncover issues that might affect your final decision or give you leverage during negotiations. It’s a smart move whether you’re buying your first home, upsizing, or purchasing an investment.

Ready to take the next step?

Whether you’re entering the market for the first time or looking for your next opportunity, our team is here to help. We’ve got access to current and upcoming listings that suit a range of budgets and lifestyles, so when you’re ready to buy, we’re ready to guide you through.