Ten things to consider when buying your new home

 Buying a home is often mentioned as one of the most stressful undertakings that people experience in their lifetimes and on average most of us only do it a couple of times. Therefore, it is wise to put a good deal of thought into the process and which factors might influence your decision making. At Hunters Estate Agent we meet many prospective purchasers both at viewings and in our local offices in Foxrock, Dalkey, Donnybrook and Rathfarnham. We are often asked for our advice about what factors to consider when starting the search for a property. The following are some of the areas that we advise people to consider in their decision making;

Budget:

First and foremost, you should decide how much you can afford to spend on a new home. Your income level, savings and any existing debts or financial obligations should all be factored into these calculations. Future circumstances such as whether you or your partner may take a career break to have a family or any other situation that could affect your income should also be thought through.

Location:

Location, location, location is the mantra of estate agents! However, many of us cannot afford to live in our preferred location and therefore it’s important to research various locations to ensure you have plenty of buying options and that the area is suited to your needs and preferences. Factors such as accessibility to work and schools, proximity to family and friends, local amenities and  transportation should be considered.

Size and Layout:

It’s important to determine the size and layout of the home that will best accommodate your lifestyle and future requirements. Consider the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, living spaces and any specific requirements or preferences you may have.

Condition of the Property:

Assess the condition of the property, including when it was built and any necessary repairs or renovations that will be required. Consider engaging the services of a professional to thoroughly evaluate the property before making an offer especially if there appears to be a lot of remedial work needed. The cost of engaging contractors for upgrades to a property have increased in recent years so this has never been more relevant.

Resale Value:

Consider the potential resale value of the property. Look at recent sales and market trends in the area to determine if the property is likely to appreciate in value over time and if the price being sought represents value for money. If you want to get on the property ladder but do not intend to remain living at that property forever, this is an important factor to consider.

Read Here More About Ten things to consider when buying your new home

Top Tips when bidding for a property with Hunters

 Many people, particularly first-time buyers, appear apprehensive of the bidding process and report having been outbid on properties on past occasions. Others, new to the process simply don’t know how to go about bidding on a property they love. We at Hunters wish to make the process as transparent and easy as possible.

Properties are offered with an asking price. This is an estimate of the property’s value based on the size, location, condition of the property and of course, using recent sales comparables from the surrounding neighbourhood. When more than one party is interested in a property what is referred to as a “bidding war” can take place. The property market ultimately dictates the property’s worth, depending on what someone is willing to pay for a property.

At Hunters we have implemented the use of a technology that enables potential purchasers to bid directly online, which of course means bidding in real time. Our Offr platform is very user friendly. Interested parties are encouraged to register on the platform on our website, www.huntersestateagent.ie. This involves uploading a photo of ID and proof of funds.

Once a party is registered on the platform they are entitled to place an offer on the property they have registered for. This is of course anonymous with each bidder having a bidder number. All those registered for the property (including the vendor themselves) will receive an email notification of any activity on the property. While the technology is comfortable and creates a transparent bidding process, communication with the sales agent is still vital and your agent should keep you informed throughout the process of how it is progressing.

TOP TIPS FOR BIDDING:

Prior to bidding on a property, you will need to have engaged with your bank or mortgage broker and have received an approval in principle letter. If you are selling a property to buy another it is a good idea to have put your home on the market already, ideally it would be sale agreed. If you have sold a property, confirmation of your sale from your solicitor can be uploaded as proof of funds.

Decide your budget. Know your limits from the outset so you are less likely to get carried away and overextend yourself.

Do your due diligence on the property and the location. Find out all the pros and of course the cons so you know when bidding on the property what extra costs you are likely to incur if your bid is successful.

Register early. The sooner you bid on the property, the sooner you will know if the property will be yours.

Read Here More About Top Tips when bidding for a property with Hunters

Which professionals to consider before appointing an Estate Agent to sell your home

 In our Rathfarnham Branch we like to make the sales process as seamless as possible and will take time to guide you through the process.

Selling is a stressful process but by doing a little groundwork one can make the process easier and take some of the stress out of the equation. When preparing to sell your home, there are several professionals you may want to consider contacting prior to going to market:

 

Estate Agent: We may be biased but this is a really important one in our view. A good estate agent can provide guidance and expertise throughout the selling process. They can help you determine the right price to go to market at, how to market your home with the best photos, video and brochure, negotiate offers, and handle the paperwork involved in the transaction. Our role does not stop when we agree the sale, we are there to hold your hand throughout the process, to help expedite issues when they arise, to give opening and counsel during stressful periods and to ultimately work with you to achieve the end goal of the closing of the sale. 

 

Home Stager: A stager can help you present your home in the best possible light to potential buyers. They can provide advice on decluttering, rearranging furniture, and adding decorative touches to enhance the appeal of your home.

 

Architect/engineer: If you have extended or altered any aspect of your property you will likely need certificates of compliance with building regulations and certificates of compliance with/or exemption from planning permission.

 

Mortgage Broker or Lender: If you plan to purchase a new home after selling your current one, it is important to consult with a mortgage broker or lender to understand your financing options and get pre-approved for a new loan.

 

Solicitor: It is crucial to appoint a solicitor early in the process and ask them to request the title documents from the bank so that the contracts can be prepared in advance of a sale being agreed. One of the most common causes of sales falling through is delay in the issuing of contracts and with some lenders currently taking up to 14 weeks (though it should be 2) it is crucial this request is made early before the property goes to market. We would advise that it is best to only launch a property once your solicitor has confirmed they have received these documents.  They can review contracts, assist with negotiations, and provide legal advice throughout the process.

Read Here More About Which professionals to consider before appointing an Estate Agent to sell your home