Finance:
If you have made the decision to buy a home you should firstly seek the services of a mortgage broker or speak to your bank to obtain pre-approval of finance. Even if you are not quite ready for a pre-approval you should at least get an idea of how much you can borrow and how much deposit you will need. Remember that in these difficult times financial institutions are tightening their requirements so it is vital that you get this information to avoid missing out on a property due to finance being declined. We recommend you consider calling Mortgage Solutions Australia on (08) 9204 7999.
Costs associated with buying a home:
Remember to take into account the following additional costs:-
* Bank and loan approval fees
* Stamp duty
* Settlement agent fees
* Council and water rates
* Insurance
* Removal costs
* Pest and building inspection reports
Tips for finding a home:
* The internet is the preferred way of finding out what is available as it will give you images and details of the property.
* West Australian Newspaper and Sunday Times
* Community Newspapers
* Real Estate agents windows
* Home opens
* Letterbox leaflets from Real Estate agents
Tips for when you have found your home:
* Include a termite certificate report and in some instances a building inspection report as a condition of the contract. Also include a clause to have all the electrical and plumbing appliances checked and where applicable pool equipment to be in good working order.
* Arrange for a pre-settlement inspection
* Contact the local council to ensure that any extensions of modifications have had council approval
* If you are looking at a strata property, check the quarterly strata levies and the minutes of the meetings to ensure there is no major work to be carried out that you will have to pay for in the near future
* Once the offer has been signed and accepted make sure you keep in contact with the Real Estate and settlement agents. For example, if you are going away on holidays, make sure you advise them in case documents require signing etc.
