Our Step-by-Step Home Buying Process
1. Initial Buyer Consultation
Let’s connect and define your vision! This first meeting is all about understanding your goals, budget, and must-haves for your ideal property. We’ll also cover key topics such as:
- Mortgage Pre-Approval Process
- How We Conduct Property Searches
- Your Specific Real Estate Goals
- Strategies for Negotiating Different Types of Sales
- Insights into the Current Housing Market
- The Advantages of Working with a Buyer’s Agent
- Our Full Range of Services
- Expected Rental Returns & Investment Potential
2. Property Search Begins
Once we have a clear understanding of your requirements, we’ll begin scouting potential properties that match your criteria. Beyond traditional listings, we leverage our extensive network to uncover exclusive off-market opportunities that may not be publicly available.
3. Arranging Viewings & Attending Inspections
After shortlisting top contenders, we’ll schedule property viewings and attend open houses or auctions on your behalf. Our team will liaise with selling agents, ask all the right questions, and assess key details to help you make an informed decision.
4. Crafting & Negotiating Offers
When you find the perfect property, we’ll draft and submit a compelling offer to the seller’s agent. If negotiations arise, rest assured—we’ll handle every aspect to secure the best possible deal. Our extensive experience in real estate ensures we advocate effectively on your behalf until an agreement is reached.
5. Contract Review & Legal Checks
Before proceeding, all contracts and legal documents will be thoroughly reviewed by our trusted in-house experts and conveyancers. We’ll ensure:
Full analysis of the Form 1 disclosure statement
Comprehensive review of the sales contract
6. Coordinating Building & Pest Inspections
We’ll arrange professional building and pest inspections to identify any structural concerns before settlement. Should any issues arise, we’ll negotiate necessary adjustments or repairs to protect your investment. Rest assured, we’ll oversee the entire process.
7. Finalizing Finance & Loan Approval
We’ll work closely with your mortgage broker to ensure a smooth loan approval process, keeping things on track for settlement.
8. Preparing for Move-In
As settlement day approaches, we’ll take the stress off your plate by organizing trusted moving services and utility connections. If you’re an investor, we’ll seamlessly set up property management services to ensure a smooth handover to tenants.
9. Settlement & Key Handover
It’s time to celebrate—you officially own your new home! We’ll collect the keys for you, ensuring everything is finalized. If you’re an investor, we’ll have your property ready for tenants from day one.
FAQ: Essential Questions to Ask When Buying a Home
When purchasing a property, it’s important to gather as much information as possible. Here are some key questions to ask the agent:
- Can you provide a recent sales report to help determine the property’s market value?
- What is the reason for the seller’s decision to move?
- How long has this property been listed for sale?
- Are there any known concerns regarding the home, land, or neighboring properties?
- What items are included in the sale (fixtures, appliances, etc.)?
- How long have the current owners lived here?
- What are the ongoing costs, such as council rates or strata fees?
- What is the expected rental yield for this property?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is a Form 1?
Form 1, also called the Vendor’s Disclosure Statement, is a legal document provided to the buyer. It outlines important details about the property being sold, including the buyer’s cooling-off rights. This document is a requirement under Section 7 of the Land and Business (Sale and Conveyancing) Act 1994.
What is the cooling-off period?
The cooling-off period allows buyers to cancel a signed contract for a property without facing legal consequences. This option is only available for private sales and does not apply to properties purchased at auction.
How long is the cooling-off period?
Once Form 1 has been signed and delivered, buyers have two full business days to withdraw from the contract if they choose to.
What is an off-market property?
An off-market property is sold without being publicly advertised or listed on major real estate platforms.
What does "subject to finance" mean?
Including a “subject to finance” clause in your offer means the purchase is conditional upon loan approval. If your mortgage application is declined, you can cancel the contract without penalties.
What is the settlement date?
Settlement, also known as “handover day,” is the final step in the property purchase process. It marks the official transfer of ownership from the seller to the buyer and occurs on a date agreed upon in the contract, typically a few weeks after signing.
How much deposit do I need?
Most lenders require a minimum deposit of 5% of the property’s purchase price. However, the required amount may vary depending on your financial situation.
Do I need a building and pest inspection?
A building and pest inspection is usually recommended before finalizing a home purchase. Conducted by licensed professionals, these inspections help identify structural problems, termite activity, leaks, asbestos, and other hidden defects.
What is stamp duty?
Stamp duty is a government tax applied to property transactions. The amount varies based on factors such as location and property value. Online calculators can help estimate the amount payable.
What is the First Home Owner Grant (FHOG)?
The First Home Owner Grant is a government initiative designed to assist eligible buyers purchasing or building their first home by providing financial support.
Who qualifies for the First Home Owner Grant?
You may be eligible if:
- You are purchasing a brand-new or substantially renovated home that has never been lived in or sold as a residence.
- The property’s market value does not exceed $575,000.
- At least one applicant is an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or a New Zealand citizen with a Special Category Visa who resides in Australia.
- All applicants are at least 18 years old.
- Neither you nor your spouse/domestic partner has owned a residential property in Australia before July 1, 2000.
- Since July 1, 2000, you and your spouse/domestic partner have not lived in a property you owned for six months or more.
- You and your spouse/domestic partner have never received a First Home Owner Grant in Australia. However, if a grant was previously obtained and fully repaid (including penalties, if any), you may be eligible to reapply.
- All applicants must occupy the home as their primary residence for a minimum of six continuous months, beginning within 12 months of settlement (for purchases) or completion of construction (for new builds or owner-builders).