Real estate agents welcome spring
NORTHCLIFF – Real estate agents do their bit to welcome spring and give top 5 tips to use when buying a house.
Fine and Country staff members manned the streets of Northcliff and Randpark Ridge to promote spring month. Pamphlets which introduced the agents were handed out at various intersections as well as a Rugby World Cup schedule.
Edgar Blomeyer, Managing director and principal at Fine and Country, said the real estate agents will also be giving out garden tips to home-owners over the month as well as collecting money for Marang House, a Northcliff-based shelter for acutely ill disadvantaged children. A portion of their commission will be donated on an ongoing basis.
Blomeyer pointed out that it was during spring time that many home-owners wanted to buy or sell their homes, however he added that people must be careful of the purchases they make.
He compiled a list of things that buyers must be made aware of:
Buying Secret #1: Stalk the Neighbourhood
Before you buy, get the lay of the land – drop by morning noon and night. Many home buyers have become completely distraught because they thought they found the perfect home, only to find out the neighbourhood wasn’t for them. Drive by the house at all hours of the day to see what’s happening in the neighbourhood.
Buying Secret #2: The Secret Science of “The offer”
Your opening offer should be based on two things: what you can afford, and what you really believe the property is worth. Make your opening offer something that’s fair and reasonable and isn’t going to totally offend the seller. A lot of people think they should go lower the first time they make an offer.
Buying Secret #3: Give Your House a Physical
Hire a home inspector. It could end up saving you thousands. A home inspector’s sole responsibility is to provide you with information so that you can make a decision as to whether or not to buy.
Buying Secret #4: You’re buying a House – Not dating it
Buying a house based on emotions is just going to break your heart. If you fall in love with something, you might end up making some pretty bad financial decisions. There’s a big difference between your emotions and your instincts.
Buying Secret #5: Understand and budget for hidden costs
The difference between renting and home ownership is the hidden costs. Most people just focus on their mortgage payment, but they also need to be aware of the other expenses such as rates and taxes, utilities and homeowner-association dues.
