LJ Hooker –Five top tips

When you know, you know. ™

Five top tips tohelp buyers realise their dreams:

Keepyoureyeontheprize-when saving, believe that the end goal is going to be worth it and all the sacrifices you make are worthwhile

Useamortgagebroker-a mortgage broker is critical to providing in-depth knowledge about the housing market, the loan options available and/or how to reach your deposit goals. They also have access to multiple lenders and can provide offers that may not be available to direct customers

Create achecklist of"must-haves", "nice-to-haves" and"bonuspoints"–the Walkers

then attached a score of 3, 2 and 1 respectively to each category and marked each house like this. That way you can be realistic about every house and they are all on an even playfield to score. Thingslike the weather,theagent'spersonality and how youfeelonthe daywon't affectyour actual score of the house

Be open -in today's market we all know how difficult it is to get your foot in the door of a home, especially your first home. Your first home doesn't have to be absolutely perfect. Chances are it will not be your "foreverhome", sobe flexible andperhaps sacrifice thatlarge bathroom youwanted,or the distance to the local school may not be as close as you would like

Due diligence -do your homework. The simple stuff everyone should do before buying a home. Before putting in an offer make sure you look at the home's history, such as the sales history and property inspection report (using a qualified property inspector ), including a LIM and building report. Talk tothe agent and find out as muchaspossible about the property. Research the suburb. Be nosey and check out the neighbours. Invite a friend or family member to the open home or to a private inspection for another opinion.